FIELD EVALUATION OF BRIDGE EXPANSION JOINTS. FINAL REPORT

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of various types of bridge expansion joints. Five types of joints, namely, 1) Wabo-Maurer expansion joint, 2) Felspan T-40, 3) Felspan T-30, 4) Acma Modular II, and 5) Acme Beta, have been evaluated. The criteria for evaluation was a) durability, b) inservice life, c) leaking, d) cost effectiveness, and e) comparison of degree of difficulty during the installation of joints. Also included in the study is the comparison of performance of the standard compression seal with this new modular system. All of these joints were not found leaking after being in service for 2 to 9 years. They all had some amount of debris accumulated near the curb. As compared to the regular finger joints, the cost of these joints is a little more but they last longer. No damage to the seals due to snow plows or traffic was observed. The overall performance of the joints was very good. Standard compression seals are recommended for small joint movement and light traffic volume. They are susceptible to damage by snow plow and leakage.

• Corporate Authors:

  Maryland Department of Transportation

  2323 West Joppa Road
  Brooklandville, MD  United States  21022

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Parikh, J
  • Munjal, S
• Publication Date: 1989-12

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Tables;
• Pagination: 133 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Alternatives analysis; Bridges; Building; Cost effectiveness; Durability; Expansion joints; Facilities; Installation; Leakage; Modular structures; Performance; Performance evaluations; Seals (Devices); Service life
• Uncontrolled Terms: Compression seals; Field performance
• Old TRIS Terms: Modular design
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Design; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00496647
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA/MD-84/04
• Contract Numbers: AW082-201-046
• Files: TRIS, USDOT, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Aug 31 1990 12:00AM