How A Neoprene Bearing Pad Handles Heavy Loads

You may identify neoprene rubber as the elastomeric material that wetsuits and laptop sleeves are made of. That
kind of neoprene material is soft to the touch and exhibits a superior degree of flexibility and elasticity. However,
neoprene rubber can also be used for heavy construction applications. One primary example of such an application is
in bridge construction. A neoprene bearing pad is a thick and durable version of the elastomer that is used in
numerous construction applications. Thick neoprene paddingis employed in such applications to endure the pressure
of heavy weights and resist outdoor variables such as oils and ozone.

Many people do not realize this, but the many bridges across the country that you may drive your car across are
constructed with the assistance of durable neoprene components. Pads of neoprene have been and are still
commonly used in concrete bridges to prevent damage from bridge activities and movements. A good solid neoprene
block can provide the perfect protective barrier that is required in important construction jobs.

Although they are both derived from the base compound polychloroprene, the neoprene in wetsuits is not the same
form present in a neoprene bearing pad. Wetsuits, laptop sleeves and mouse pads are made of cellular neoprene, a
form of neoprene that is the result of the introduction of a foaming agent into its creation process. The type of
neoprene pads for bridges are made of dense sheet rubber and do not use a foaming agent in the production
process. In contrast to the softer and more foamy looking cellular rubber, the material of a neoprene bearing pad is
solid and firm to the touch, offering little flexibility for the sake of enhanced durability.

What exactly is a bridge bearing pad? Conjure the best image of a concrete bridge in your head. You should see
concrete piers holding up the bridge deck. A bridge bearing is located where the piers connect to the subsurface of
the bridge deck. This device is meant to transfer any loads and movements from the deck into the foundation. It is a
safety mechanism that gives bridges the ability to flex with movements instead of being damaged by them. A
neoprene bearing pad is uniquely qualified for this task simply by virtue of its physical features.

There are three types of bearings: elastomeric, plane sliding and multiple roller bearings. A neoprene bearing pad
falls directly into the elastomeric category; that is, they utilize the inherent elasticity of rubber. Despite the limited
flexibility of a thick and solid neoprene block, the fact that it is a rubber material gives the pad a better level of
elasticity for the purposes of shock absorption. Elasticity is a trait common to rubbers, although each specific type has
its own level of it. Elastomeric bearings are also a more economical choice when compared to the other types of
bearings .
Neoprene padding offers two important physical functions that can help to prevent damage to bridges:

 Absorbs shock: The shock absorbing property of durable neoprene material dissipates any loads
and impacts that may damage the structural integrity of the bridge deck and supports. Using
neoprene pads for bridges also promotes the absorption of movements caused by thermal
expansion and contraction of the materials in the beams or bridges. This feature of a neoprene
bearing pad helps in the proper and stable functioning of a bridge.
 Promotes movement: The inherent elasticity of neoprene allows for lateral and longitudinal
movement of the bridge. The elastic nature of neoprene allows the beam to rotate slightly from
impact, only to rebound unaffected. Even the most durable neoprene material has a small amount
of elasticity, just enough to make a difference. This feature makes neoprene, and rubber in
general, a popular material to use in these types of construction projects.

A neoprene bearing pad is a cost effective and useful plate for use on precast, pre-stressed concrete or metal beams
in bridges. Neoprene pads for bridges allow effortless and consistent transmission of mass from the beam down. This
permits sideways shift of the beam caused by natural thermal energy. Neoprene padding is easier to install than
plane sliding and multiple roller bearings. Neoprene rubber’s resistance to ozone, UV rays, certain chemicals, and
weathering ensures that the elastomer won’t degrade from outdoor use. The operable temperature range of neoprene
is also very wide, which ensures consistent performance. It is truly amazing what a neoprene block can do! Next time
you are on a bridge, just know that the chances are good that you are being supported through the aid of a neoprene
bearing pad.

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