The sliding isolation pendulum – an improved recentring bridge bearing

Sliding isolation pendulum bearings, known as seismic isolators, with adaptations for the service condition, represent improved recentring bridge bearings. They are an attractive alternative to elastomeric bearings for the support of structures on recentring bearings, which lead to a better distribution of horizontal loads as well as to a reduction in constraints. In combination with a special sliding material and characterized by long life and high loadbearing capacity, sliding isolation pendulum bearings have small dimensions as well as the capability a exact presetting and for horizontal stiffness that is independent of load capacity, change of material characteristics due to temperature, ageing and manufacture. Further, the requirements in terms of serviceability of a bridge bearing are upheld.