10 STEPS TO EKSPAN BRIDGE BEARING INSTALLATION

EKSPAN manufacture the highest quality bridge bearings to suit your project’s needs, and our experts can be as involved as your project requires.

Installation procedures of our bridge bearings depend on several factors including the type of bearing. Being unprepared and uninformed can lead to major structural risks if the bearings are not installed correctly. It is vital to understand the installation process when planning your bridge project. 

In this blog we share our key tips on how to successfully install bridge bearings, what not to do and how our expert installation team can help to provide you with a hassle-free bridge bearing installation.  

How to Install a Bridge Bearing 

  1. Always handle the bearing carefully and use a crane where necessary.  
  2. Store in a clean and dry place onsite. Do not stack the bearings.  
    1. Check the plan of installation for the bridge bearings, making sure correct alignment and any required pre-setting is completed. 
    2. Ensure suitable temporary works are in place prior to the installation or replacement of the bearings.
    3. Bed the bearings on a horizontal, flat surface free from high/ hard spots, shrinkage, and voids. Unless the plan states otherwise.  
    4. Once the bedding material has cured, load the bearings according to their installation plan.  
    5. Equally tighten the fixings of the bearings. 
    6. Apply any site coatings and correct any damaged paint on the bearing.  
    7. Ensure the bearings can be removed once installed, for future maintenance checks and replacement.  
    8. Remove any (red) transport brackets from the bearings.  


      9. How Not to Install a Bridge Bearing  

      1. Do not dismantle the bridge bearing onsite, please contact our experts to assist.  
        1. Do not leave the bearings uncovered before installation, this could compromise the bearing and your bridge.  
          1. Do not attempt to modify the bearing without EKSPAN approval, please contact us if your project needs this. 
            1. Do not install the bridge bearings without a fully qualified supervisor’s approval. This could compromise your project if the installation guide is not followed correctly.  


              2. How EKSPAN can help 

              EKSPAN is the UK’s biggest bearings manufacturer. We have a longstanding commitment to meeting the standards of EN1337 throughout the design, manufacturing, and installation process.  

              We have a team of dedicated experts that can discuss the needs of your bridge project and provide end-to-end project management and advice. Our experts can make sure that your installation process is trouble free.  

              EKSPAN have recently been involved in the installation of the temporary works and bridge bearings for the unique Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft, where we worked alongside Farrans Construction to achieve their project goals. 

              If this is something your project needs, please contact us and we can see how we can help, from consulting on the installation process, training your installation team or hands-on installation. 

              For our full bridge bearing product range, click here. 

              For a consultation with our experts about your bridge installation project, contact us today via the contact form below. 

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