Elastomeric Bearing Pads for Bridges, Seismic & Industrial Applications
Engineered for durability, precision, and compliance with AASHTO, NTPEP, and DOT standards
Bearing Pads with Load Plates
In many applications, elastomeric bearing pads are vulcanized directly to heavy steel sole plates and/or masonry plates. This configuration allows for a positive connection by welding and/or bolting, while still permitting the desired range of motion. For sloped bridge spans, the top sole plate is tapered to match the bridge’s slope. Anchor bolts attach the masonry plate and may continue through the sole plate to restrict movement. Various restrainers can also be incorporated to limit motion.
For bridge rehabilitation projects, elastomeric bearings are frequently chosen to replace damaged or frozen steel bearing assemblies. Because an elastomeric bearing occupies significantly less space than an equivalent rocker bearing, Scougal supplies fabricated steel bolsters to bridge the gap between the bearing seat and the bridge superstructure. For fast-track repair emergencies, we pride ourselves on meeting tight deadlines for time-critical projects.
In addition, our bridge bearing pads are engineered to meet the rigorous standards of local government and Department of Transportation projects, ensuring full compliance with AASHTO M-251 and NTPEP requirements.
Introduction to Elastomeric Bearing Pads for Bridge & Seismic Isolation
Since their US introduction in the 1950’s, elastomeric bearing pads have become the standard for both steel and concrete bridge structures throughout North America. Manufactured with a service life that typically exceeds that of the bridge superstructure, these pads continue to set the benchmark in durability and performance.
Steel-Reinforced Elastomeric Bearing Pads – NTPEP & PennDOT Approved
Bearings with a high proportion of steel shims relative to rubber volume handle greater loads and shear forces. Wider shim spacing also provides excellent vibration isolation – a feature particularly valued in theaters and concert halls. Engineers can adjust these variables to design a bearing that meets almost any application requirement.
Manufacturing and Testing Excellence
Our state-of-the-art manufacturing and testing processes ensure that every bearing pad meets stringent performance standards. From bridge bearings compensating for rotations, loads, and horizontal movements to components used in light rail and industrial projects, we can produce virtually any shape or size to suit your needs.
Customized Solutions for Unique Applications
Whether for bridge bearings that accommodate rotations and loads or for specialized industrial applications, our custom solutions are engineered to deliver precise performance. We work closely with our clients to tailor designs that meet specific project requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have another question? Contact us by email.
Lead times vary depending on the complexity and volume of the order, but we strive to maintain competitive turnaround times across all product lines. Our vertically integrated operations and in-house machining, fabrication, and molding allow us to control production schedules and reduce delays. For standard elastomeric bearings and commonly ordered components, lead times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks. Custom steel-fabricated products may require additional scheduling time—please contact us for an accurate estimate.
Scougal Rubber operates under rigorous quality protocols to ensure compliance with AISC, AASHTO, DOT, and project-specific standards. We employ robust in-house testing, documentation, and material traceability systems. Our recent expansion into precision steel plate machining and fabrication has brought additional QA measures, including flatness tolerances, weld inspections, and dimensional verification using state-of-the-art tools. Our goal is simple: every product we ship meets or exceeds the specifications our client's demand.
We specialize in manufacturing elastomeric bearings, laminated bearing pads, seismic isolation systems, —now complemented by advanced metalworking capabilities. With the integration of steel plate machining and fabrication into our infrastructure, we are now positioned to deliver complete bearing assemblies and structural components tailored for modern bridge construction, heavy civil projects, and specialty applications.
Looking for Bridge Bearing Manufacturers near you? Contact Scougal Rubber, located at 885 Denmark Drive Suite 103, McCarran, NV – proudly serving clients across the US.
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