CHAPTER

PIERS, ABUTMENTS AND

42. WING WALLS

4.1. Introduction
The components of a bridge can be split up into three parts
(i) Foundations
(i) Sub-structures
(ii) Super-structures.
foundations. The
The components designed to carry the total weight of bridge are called
are called sub-structures and the components
components of the bridge upto the level of bearings
of the bridge above the level of bearing are called super-structures.
sub-structures of a bridge. The three important
In this chapter, we shall discuss the topic
sub-structures of a bridge are as the following:
(i) Piers
(ii) Abutments
(i) Wing walls.
above sub-structures in detail.
Now, we shall discuss each of the

4.2.Plers
bridge super-structure.
Piers are the intermediate supports of a
sub-soil
from the bridge super-structure to the
pier is to transmit the load
The function of a
lying underneath.
Functions
Piers and their
4.2.1,Types of construction such as
classified according to their shape and
Piers are
(ii) Dumb-well piers
i) Solid R.C.C. piers
(iv) Cylindrical piers
(ii) Column piers
(vi) Pile piers
(v) Abutment piersS
(vii) Cellular piers.
(vii) Trestle piers
be discussed in detail.
of piers will now
Each of the above types
B-57
 B-58
Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Piers, Abutments and Wing walls
B-59
(i) Solid R.C.C. piers: In solid piers, the piers consist of
rubble masonry (1: 4) or coarsed nbble masonry or cement Eese water (JLy Column plers In column píers, cement concrete columns are erected right from
rivér bed to the edge on
concrete built across rivers/valley. The ends of solid piers may be supporting girders. The transverse beams are provided to support the
rectangular On upstream side, pier is provided with chamfered longitudinal beams. The pockets formed between longitudinal beams can be used to carry gas
cutting edge to break the flow of water. This ister -Cut pipes, sewage pipes or water pipes. Additional strength can be provided by using
d as "cut
waler
bracing.
water". On downstream side, pier is provided with rounded shape Roadway
guides the This is Parapet
which flow. termed as "ease water". Such a
solid per construction has proved to be most economical in the
Girder
long run. The cut waters are usually triangular in shape. The cut
waters ned not to be very long and they should be carried down
Longitudinal
to the base. The
ease waters of rwo parabolic arcs and
consist Pockets Colunns jeam

they are usually semi-circular in shape.

( i ) Dumb-bell piers : A dumb-bell pier has an appearance of
Fig. 4.1. Solid R.C.C. pier.
a
dumb-bell i.e., a weight for exercises, in plan. Heads provided
on two ends are constructed by rubble masonry or cement concrete. Brace River bed

A column is provided below each girder. Horizontal bracing, provides additional support to the
end columns as shown in figure 4.2. Fig. 4.3. Column pier.
v ) Cylindrical plers : In cylindrical piers, two cylindrical shaped piers made up of
-Girder cement concrete are provided. Casting of concrete can be done
by using cast iron pipes or mild
3racing steel semi-circular pipes. Additional strength, if
required, can be provided by using bracing. A
cylindrical pier is shown in figure 4.4.

Plan

Girder
Beanng Bracing 3racing
HE

Bracing

Strut
win 8haly

Fig. 4.2. Dumb-bell pier. Fg. 44. Cylindrical pier.

Following are the advantages of the dumb-bell piers ) Abutment piers : In abutment piers, when arch masonry is constructed between
are adopted.** supports, every third or fourth intermediate pier is designed extra strong to resist the horizontal
(a) They are very much suitable when the well foundations
pressure coming from either side. An abutment pier is shown in figure 4.5. For this
(b) As compared to their mass, they give maximum moment ot inertua. i h i r its cross-section is of bigger dimensions than the purpose,
ordinary piers. By this arrangement cost of
(c) They are simple in design and they lead to light reinforcement.
 B-60
Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Piers, Abutments and Wing walls
B-61
centering is reduced, ,simultaneously damage against earthquake and abnormal floods effects
(vii) Trestle piers: A trestle is a framed pier
can be minimised because such a pier will
prevent further collapse. and it consists of vertical, horizontal and diagonal
Road surface Parapet railing members as shown in figure 4.7. While excavating
for foundation if hard clay, or rocky strata is
available at shallow depth, skeleton in the form of
trestle made of mild steel section can be created to Truss
support the bridge super-structure. However due
care must be taken to see that floating matter at the
time of foods, should not get entrapped between Bracing
the gap of different sections. Therefore, such trestle
may be used where such a condition is not likely to
take place. Since, these piers can be easily and
A economically
for viaducts.
constructed, they are most suitable
Wing wall ONAY*%0
River bed
(viti) Cellular piers : As shown in figure 4.8,
Pier Abutment pler celular piers consist of two concentric RCC cells
Fig. 4.5. Abutment pier. connected by radial ribs and horizontal bands at
Fig. 4.7. Trestle pier.
as stated suitable intervals. The intermediate space between
(vi) Pile piers : When safe bearing capacity of available strata is unreliable,
on hard the cells is filled with some cheap filler material like sand. However, cost of framework used
to. Such piles are driven through river bed resting
earlier use of piles is resorted are braces to make them for this purpose will be exorbitant. The weight of such pier, is less as compared to solid pier.
strata. The piles of these piers laterally connected by RCC or steel
unstable or DBaphragm
more stable. A pile pier is shown in figure
4.6. They are used for low piers over
Cells wals
muddy ground.

H.F.L.
Piles-
Braces Fig. 4.8. Celular pler.

+ 4.2.2. Dlmensions of Plers

The various dimensions of a pier such as batter, height, length and top width are decided
ass
described below. Generally, it may be stated that the dimensions of a pier should be decided by
combining theoretical approach with practical considerations.

:
(a) Batter: In some cases, the sides of a masonry pier are provided with uniform batter
*WANOANZAWAY Generally, batter of 1 in 12 to 1 in 24 is provided in case of large piers. The greater value i5
Short
usually adopted for short piers and the smaller value is usually adopted for large piers.
River bed piers have vertical sides.
bed
(b) Height: The height of a pier is fixed up by the difference between the level of river
1000 mm
and the formation level of the road or railway line. The top of the pier is usually kept
or N.F.L. (for submersible
to 1500 mm about the H.F.L. (for non-submersible bridges)

Pile pier. bridges) of the stream or river.

Fig. 4.6.
B-62 Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Piers; Abutments and Wing walls B-63

c)Length: The length of a pier should be kept 1-5 times the top width of bridge (excluding gi34Height The height of an abutment depends on maximum water level at the time of high
cantilever projections, if any) plus the widths of cut-water and ease-water. flood with free board and clearance.
a) Top width: It depends on span. But top width of pier should be sufficientto accomumodate :4Batter :On flow side it is kept vertical, on backfill side, a batter of 1:12 to 1: 24 can
two bearings with a clearance of aboout 15 cm. In any case, it is the usual practice to provide a be kept:. Generally, the uniform batter is provided on earth's side instead-of footings. Alternatively
minimum width of about 75 cm. stopped offset for increasing base width be provided to reduce intensity of pressure coming on
soil.
4.3. Abutments 4.3.2.Types of Abutments
They the end supports of a bridge floor. They are constructed either with brick
are
Bridge abutments are classified into the following types:
concrete or RCC. On the front side, flow of water is there,
masonry, stone masonry, mass
connection is provided. 1 Abutments without wing walls
while on the rear side, there is a backfill of earth on which approach
whatever quantity of water that 2 Abutments with wing wals
As discussed earlier, soil contains pores. Through these pores,
holes are provided at different
is entrapped between the pores, will exert pressure. Weep 1 . Abutments without wing walls: Sometimes, supporting walls are not constructed to
levels to reduce the intensity of such a pressure.
prevent slipping of émbankment soil fill. In such case, äbutments can be further classified, into
should be kept in mind:
Before construction of abutments, following design parameters, following types
i) Self weight. i) Buried abutments

(ii) passive
Active and earth pressure caused by backfill earth. () Box abutments
vehicles. (i) T-shaped abutments
(ii) Application of brakes to the
traffic on backfill. Civ) Arch abutments.
(iv) Live load due to the moving
)Buried abutments : The abutments constructed
(v)Earthquakeeffect. inside the banks, prior to the formation of embankment
(vi) coming from super-structure.
Dead load of approaches are called buried abutments. They are. Excavation
coming from super-structure.
Live load
also known as abutments with embankments. To
(vii) to be checked. While stone is
is designed. Its stability is required prevént slowing/erosion pitching of heávy
Based on above points, structure
must be kept in mind:
done. Figure 4.9 shows a buried abutment. Fig. 4.9. Buried abutment.
checking stability, the following points
at all sections is less than the permissible load t ) Box abutments : In box abutments, the internal walls
alongwith abutment proper are
i) Shear and bending stress developed constructed in box shape. Within these walls back fill of earth is done. Such an abutment will
on the masonry. be suitable only for smal bridge. Figure 4.10, shows a box abutment as it books like a box.
direction of bridg.
should not in the direction of flow,
slip
nor along the longinudinal
(ii) It
there.
(ii) No overturning effect is
at the base.
(iv) No tension should be developed soil which
within permissible safe bearing capacity of
(v) Various stresses should be
supports them ultimately.

4.3.1.

1.
Governing Dimensions of Abutment
The various dimensions
Length: It is equal to
2. Top width : Supporting
Besides space
described
of an abutment are
the width of the bridge including
beam/girders/bearing
for anchoring of parapet with
as mentioned

footpath if any.
below:

no
should have sufficient space.
It should
abutment should not also
LI
Fg. 4.10. Box abutment.
(6)

be less than 15 to 20 cm.

be considered.
 B-64 Piers, Abutments and Wing walls
Eagle's Ralways, Bridges and Tunnels B-65

(ii) Tee abutments : Figure 4.11 shows a T-abutment as it resembles letter T in

tee or 2. Abutments with wing walls Additional supports in the form of wing wall can be
plan. As shown in figure internal horizontal wall alongwith abutment is constructed and afterwards provided to the abutment where
backfill is done. This type of construction provides more
the bridge.
support to a poor earthen approach of (a) Height of approaches is more.
(b) Velocity of flow of river water is high.
(c) There is danger of side erosion.
Such wing wall has certain demerits such as
() Natural flow is contracted. Because of contraction scouring is more and at the
same time water level on upstream side can increase.
(i) Foundation depth has to be increased, because of increased scour depth involving
more construction work.
When the abutments are with wing walls, they are classified into the following types
Abutments with straight wing walls.
i) Abutments with splayed wing walls.
Fim bank
(ii) Abutments with return wing walls.
7(i) Abutments with straight wing walls These abutments are so called as these are
provided with straight wing walls as shown in figure4.13. This type of abutment is suitable for
Fig. 4.11. Tee abutment. small bridge. This wing wall prevents entry of water on the sides of abutment.
in plan are arch abutments. They are alsoo
iv) Arch abutments: The abutments curved
arch shaped bridge, the thrust coming due to arch
known as hollow abutments. While designing construction has to be
on abutment. In such a case,
action is required to be firmmly supported and road
4.12. These abutments are suitable at rail Splayed
done as per method shown in figure Strakght wing wall
separation or an underbridge.
on land i.e. in case
of grade wing wall
crossings
R.C.C. Abutment

R.C.C. arch

RC.C. block
H.FL
Fim bank

Masonry -concrete

Flg. 4.13. Abutment with straight wing wall. Fig. 4.14. Abutment with splayed wing wall.
R.C.C. arch bridge.
Flg. 4.12.
 B-66 Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Plers, Abutments and Wing walls B-67

(ü) Abutments with splayed inwithwing walls: These abutments

o) The height of splayed wing wall may be changed from point to point along its
are so called as these are provided splayed wing walls as shown It can have minimum height at the far end from the abutment and maximum
in figure 4.14. As shown in figure additional wing walls supporting length.
height equal to that of the abutmet at the end near the abutment. This type of
the abutment are constructed at an angle of 45° to 60°. Such a arrangement reduces the cost of splayed wing wall.
construction helps in increasing waterway as it permits smooth entry
(e)
These wing walls provide smooth entry and exit to water flowing under the bridge.
and exit of water under the bridge. The wing walls also help to resist
back fill earth pressure. These abutments are mostdy used for bridges
These wing wals are best suited forthesmal as
wel as big bridges on rivers or streams.
on rivers or streams They or
are also provided
in the
case when road width is to be reduced on the bridge acros
(i) Abutments with returnwalls:
wing These abutments
are river when two or more roads meet at the approach of a bridge.
so called as these are provided with return wing walls as shown (41) Return wing walls :The wing walls constructed at 90° to the abutments are known as
figure 4. 15. Where approach on either sides is of more height and . Relurn wing
the return wing walls. Such wing walls are suitable in case when the embankcment of the
river banks are firm, the wall constructed at right angle to the wall approachesare very high. Whenthethe return wing the
wails are adopted, we can suitably extend the
abutment. Its function is sane as that of retaining the earth pressure
Fig. 4.15. Abutment with parapet walls on either sidethe
of bridge beyond abutnent. The return wing wals are taken
coming on its part.
return wing wall. sufficiently inside so that earth slope along them terminates outside the waterway. These
wing walls confine the formation of the approaches and add to their strengh.
4.3. Wing Walls
The walls constructed on either side of an abutment to support and protect the
of the river are known as the wing walls. These walls are constructed
earth banks
df the same material as
Jmportant and Expected Questions
that of their abutments. Define the following
A wing wall has mainly to perform the following functions 0 Plers Super-structures ) Buried abutments () Wing wals ( Stralght wing
walls (v) Splayed wing walls (vi) Return wing walls
(i)to provide a smooth entry into the bridge site
Plers: Piers are the intermediate supports ofa bridge super-structure
of the river.
(ii) to support and protect the earth banks ) Super-structures: The components of the bridge upto the level of bearings are called sub-
Types of wing walls: Wing walls are classified into the following three types structures and the components of the bridge above the levei of bearing are called super
structures.
)Straight wing walls
(4) Buried abutments: The abutments constructed inside the banks, prior to the formation of
(i) Splayed wing walls embankment of approaches are called buried abutments.
Gv) Wing walls: The walls constructed on either side of an abutmment to support and protect the
(ii) Return wing walls. earth banks of the river are known as the wing wals.
Now, we shall discuss each of the above type briefly.
) Straight wing wals: The wing walls constructed in the line with the abutments, are known as
with the abutments, are
i) Straight wing walls The wing walls constructed in the line the straight wing walls.
are found to be economical when thereis
known as the straight wing walls. These wing walls These wing walls are suitable for
(v)Splayed wing walls: When wing walls are given inclination in plan, they are known as the
no danger of washing of the material from the bank of river. splayed wing walls.
constructed across small streams with
low banks. Straight wing walls
small bridges which are (oi) Return wing walls: The wing walls constructed at 90 to the abuuments are known as the
are shown in figure 4.13. return wing walls.
are known as
walls are given inclination in plan, they Mention the various counponents of a bridge.
Ciü) Splayed wing walls: When wing 4.14. The wing walls may also
the splayed wing walls. Splayed wing walls
are shown in figure The components of a bridge can be split up into three parts:
walls are generally constructed at
45° and
be curved, instead of being splayed. These wing
Foundations
walls offer the following three advantages: Sub-structures
such types of wing
such as
walls to carry additional protections () Super-strucnures.
(a) It is not necessary for the splayed wing
nubble filling and pitching of the embankment.
B-68
Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels
State three important sub-structures of Piers, Abutments and Wing walls
The three bridge.
a
B-69
important sub-structures of a bridge are as the (b) Top width: Supporting
) Piers following beam/girders/bearing should have sufficient space. It should not be less
than 15 to 20 cm. Besides space for anchoring of parapet with abutment should
(i) Abutments considered. not also be
(iii) Wing walls. (c) Height: The height of an abutment
with free board and clearance. depends on maximum water level at the time of high flood
Differentiate between cut water and ease water.
On What do you understand by
upstream side, pier is provided with chamfered wing walls 7 Enumerate the types of wing walls.
termed as cut water". On downstream side, pier is cutting edge to break the flow of water. This is
provided with rounded shape which guides the
The walls constructed on either side
of an abutment to support and the earth banks of the
flow. This is
termed as "ease water". river are known as the wing walls. These walls are constructed ofprotect
their abutments. the same material as that of
Explain abutment pier with a neat sketch..
A wing wall has
In abutment
piers, when arch masonry is constructed between supports, every third or mainly to perform the following functions:
intermediate pier is designed extra strong to resist the fourth )to provide a smooth entry into the bridge site
side. For this purpose, its cross-section is of horizontal pressure coming from either (i) to
bigger dimensions than the ordinary piers. By this support and protect the earth banks of the river.
arrangement cost of centering
is reduced, simultaneously damage against earthquake and abnormal Types of wing wals Wing walls are classified into the
floods effects can be minimised because such a pier will following three types
prevent further collapse.
Roed surface Parapet raiting Straight wing walls
i) Splayed wing walls
(ii) Retum wing walls.
Write a short note on Tee abutment.
Tee or T-abutment as it resembles letter T in
in figure internal horizontal wal plan. As shown
alongwith abutment is
constructed and afterwards backfill is done. This
of Fum ban
construction provides more support to a poor earthen type
of the bridge. approach
Tee abutment

Wing wall
AwAwAVWaW Rver bed
bjective Lype Questions
Fll in the blanks
Pier Abutment pier
1 is the intermediate
Abutment pler
. .
support in the
bridge.
2. Side of the pier may be given batter
State any three advatages of dumb-well piers. varying from. to 1-in-24.
The weight of cellular pier
Following are the advantages of the dumb-bell piers is... as
compared to solid pier.
End support of a bridge floor is called
foundations are adopted.
(a) They are very much suitable when the well
.

5. The height of an abutment depends on

maximum moment of inertia. at the tinme of high food.
(b) As compared to their mass, they give
. . . . .

6 An abutment serves both

lead to light reinforcement.
as a pier and
.
c) They áre simple in design and they 7.
Define the following in case of abutment: The walls constructed on either side of an abutment to support and
are called.. protect the earth banks of the river
Length 8 The wing walls constructed in the line with the
abutments are called . . . .

)Top width 9. Splayed wing walls are generally constructed at.. .

(e) Height. 10. The wing walls constructed at 90° to the abutnents
bridge including footpath if any.
are called
to the width of the
....

(a) Length: It is equal

 : {K

CHAPTER

5 BRIDGE BEARINGS

5.1. Introduction
Bearings are the devices which are provided on the top of abutments and piers to a]llow free
expansion, contraction and deflection of bridge super-structure.
In longspan bridges, main girders are liable to expand or contract due to the temperature
variations. In the
addition, deflection of a simply supported girder under load gives ap angular
movement over the support. These effects give rise to the development of
heary internal
stresses endangering the whole bridge structure. So, in order to overcome development of
internal stresses, some suitable devices in the form of bridge bearings are provided. In this
chapter, we shall study about purpose of bearings and different types of bearings. u 4"

5.2. Purposes of Bearings

The purposes of providing bearings in a bridge structure are as the following:
i) To allow longitudinal movement due to the change in témperature.
(ii) To allow for angular movement of girder due to the deflection under the load.
(ii) To ransfer concentrated stresses coming from the top to the abutment cap, pier
cap etc. ultimately leading it to the supporting soil.
iv) To allow stresses developing due to the unequal settlement öf any one of the
component either pier, abutment etc.
(v)To resist horizontal forces developed due to application of brakes to the vehicles.
(vi) To take up vertical movement due to sinking of the supports
(vii) To make movements of girder harmless.
(vii) To simplify the procedure in design.
5.3-Types of Bearings For Steel girder bridges *

Normally, bearings are classified into the following two categories:

) Fixed bearings
(i) Expansion bearings.
Bearing being located below the girder, fixed bearing is provided on one end and to allow
longitudinal movement, expansion bearing is located at the other end of beam.
B-71
B-72 B-73
Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Bridge Bearings
modified form of fixed plate bearing. In this,
5.3.1. Fixed Bearings (ii) Deep cast base bearings: This is a
underside of the bridge girder
The instead of simple plate, deep cast iron base device is used to the
bearings
known as
which do not permit any longitudinal movement of the bridge girders are
as shown in figure 5.3.
fixed bearings. Ger R S
Girder
Rvets

base

bearing
Bed D

777777 Bearing plate

Bed plate ADUtment

Abutment

Fig.5.3. Deep cast base beartng.

Fig. 5.1. Fbced bearing
Suitability: Such bearing is suitable for a span upto 20 m of steel girder bridges.
vertical plane but unable to resist longitidinal
This has a capacity to resist deflection in a of supports (ii) Rocker bearings: As shown in figure 5.4, this ype of bearing
consists of a top shoe
on type of super-structure, type
movement. The design of fixed bearings depends
classified into the following types Girder
and length of span. Fixed bearings can be further
(i) Deep cast base bearings
(i Fixed plate bearings
(iv) Kuckde bearings.
(ii) Rocker bearings As shown in figure
This is the simplest type of fixed bearings.
Fixed plate bearings : is provided below one end of the beam. The steel plate is of
then

5.2, a flat rectangular

steel plate each side of the girder, on the top
on
two anchor bolts,
one
anchored down with usually Topshoe

or abutment.
bridge pier
is suitable only for a limited span of 12 m
of steel girder bridges.
Suitability: Such bearing
Girder Rocker pin-
Bottom shee

Honey combed
Dedplate

ADutment
Bearing plate

Abutment Bed plate Fig. 5.4. Rocker bearing.

Fixed plate bearing.

Fig. 5.2.
 B-74 Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnel Bridge Bearings B-75
and a bottom shoe and in the middle a rocker pin is inserted. Inverted
the under side of end of beam, while lower shoe is connected
topshoe isconnected to )SHding plate bearings: This is the simplest type of expansion bearings and is shown in
the to abutment/pier. With,the
deflection of the girder, there is a rotation of pin placed between
upper. and bottom shoe,and figure 5.6. In sliding plate bearings, elliptical holes are drilled in a mild steel plate which is
connected on both sides of the bridge girder. Lower plate provided below beam has also elliptical
this allows free angular movement of girder at its ends. .

.. holes through which variation in length can be permitted in longitudinal direction of the girder.
Suitability: This type of bearing is suitable for spans exceeding 20)m. Rivets
Girder
iv Knuckle bearings: This type of bearing was used when steel bridges were constructed
in past. In this type of bridge bearings, there is a device of knuckle joint kept between assembly
of top and bottom shoe as shown in figure 5.5. Knuckle joint is used to permit deflection. The
knuckle bearing is adopted when it is desired to provide only for angular movement of the
girder which is fixed to the upper shoe. Now-a-days such bearing is rarely used.
Girder Rivats
Slotted Iole

77m7m 77TTT 7 Bed plate

Abuiment

-Top shoe Fig. 5.6. Siding plate bearings.

Sultability : This type of bearing can be used upto 20 m span.
Rocker pin (a) Deep east base with curved plate bearings : This type of bearing consists of a sole
.
plate which is connected to the bortom edge of end of bridge girder. This sole plaie restson top
-Bottom shoe base which is anchored with abutment as shown in figure 5.7. Such
of deep cast curved plate
Honey combad ¬ir . 3ii bearing can provide expansion and deflection.
bed plate Girder Rivets
777N777777777777777

Abutment

Fig. 5.5. Knuckle bearing.

20
suitable for span exceeding
m.
Suitability: This type of bearing is Sole plate
5.3.2. Expansion Bearings
movement of the bridge girders are called expansion Curved bed
The bearings which allow longitudinal
bearings. They are also known as free bearings.
classified into the following types
The expansion bearings are further
bearings Abutment
(i) Sliding plate
curved plate bearings
(i) Deep cast base with
ii Rocker and roller bearings Flg. 5.7. Deep cast base with curved plate bearing.
curved base
(iv) Rocker bearings with Suitablity: Such a bearing is suitable for spans
12 to 20 m.
(v) Neoprene bearings.
B-76
Eegle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Bridge Bearings B-77
(iti) Rocker bearings with curved
plate : In this type of bearings, the assembly ) Rocker and Roller of
beartngs In his type bearing. rollers are provided botom
: on
top shoe and bottom shoe alongwith rocker pin in between consists of
the longitudinal
expanision of the
which offers minimum
resistance tot shoe which can slide shown
along honey-combed bed plate. The bed plate is attached to the top of
provides flexibility of deflection in bridge girder as shown in figure 5.8. At the same 5.9. Such figure
a vertical time masonry abutmert as in be used
longitudinal expansion as well as angular movement flexibility.
a bearing can to provide mobilitry of
plane.
Girder Rvets Risests

Top shoe

Rocker pln- Rocker

Bottom shoe Botom shoe

Roller
H o n e y combed
oney combed
T777TTTTIITTT7ITITTT77bed píate ed piete

Abutment Abutment

Fg. 5.8. Rocker bearing. Fg. 5.9. Rocker bearimg

Suttability: Such a bearing is suitable for spans 12 to 20 m. Suitability : Such a bridge bearing is suitable for spans more than 20 m
modified form of
(iv) Neoprene bearings: Instead of using çomventional old bearingslisted:
merits of using the same can be
5.4. Types of Bearings for Concrete Bridges
neoprene bearing is used now-a-days. The Following are the commonly adopted bearings for concrete
minimum cost
bridges
(a) Initial 1. Bearings for slab bridges
(b)Easy in fixing/connecting 2. Bearings for girder bridges
(c) Low maintenance 3. Bearings for submersible bridges
(d) Low cost 4. Bearings
for continuous bridges.
Neutral against environment changes Each of the above type of
(e) bearing will now be briefly discussed.
Removal and replacement easy.
)
 B-78 Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Bridge Bearings B-79

5.4.1. Bearings for slab bridges -Expansion joint

The bearings for slab bridges simply consist of several layers of tar paper, placed between -Copper
cap
sheet
the bridge slab and capping slab of the pier or abutment. To prevent bonding of concrete, the
Lead sheet at Stainless steel
layers of tar paper are generally provided in slab bridges. The capping slab finished smooth and slotted hole plate
its edges are rounded as shown in figure 5.10, to make provision for rotating movements of the
bridge superstructure. Copper
sheet
Suspended
span slab
Mainslab
span -Dowel
lining
6 mm premoulded joint filer
-R.C.C. bridge slab
(a) Details of a free end bearing

Suspended
3pan síab - Copper Main
sheet span slab
Rounded edge ining

Tar paper in Lead sheet-

several layers at center

Distribution bar
R.C.G.capping
-Hinge
Abutment bar
C
(6) Details of a fixed end bearing
Fig. 5.11. Types of bearings for slab bridges.
)Fixed end bearings: The bearings which do not provide free
expansion of the bridge
slab but may permit its rotating movement are known as fixed end
bearings.
Fig. 5.10. Bearing for a slab bridge. These bearings simply consist of a lead sheet whose thickness is 3 mm. This lead sheet
slab usually constructed for spans upto
bridges which are deforms under the load and takes the shape of a wedge, hence, permitting rotation. The details
These bearings are provided in ofconstruction of fixed, end bearings are shown in figure 5.116).
is dowelled and the other end is kept
8 m. bridges, normally one support of the slab
In such
free. In single span slab bridge, dowelling should be done
at both the abutments. In a two span Suitability: This type of bearing is suitable for spans more than 8 m.
whereas at the pier, no dowelling is
slab bridge, the slab should be dowelled at the abutments
should be done at abutments
#5.4.2. Bearings for girder bridges
needed. Hence, in the case of a multi-span slab bridge, dowelling These bearings simply consist of a lead sheet. Lead sheet
is kept undowelled. For slab is generally provided in between
and at alternate piers and the bearing on the remaining piers two mild steel plates. The upper mild steel plate is anchored to the
base
girder at its bottom and the
bridges, bearings are further categorised into two types plate to the capping slab of the abutiment.
i) Free end bearings. Suitability: Such a bearing is suitable for spans 8 to 27 m.
These bridges are further categorised into four
(ii) Fixed end bearings. types:
free expansion of the bridge slab are (i) Fixed plate bearings.
i) Free end bearings: The bearings which provide
known as free end bearings. (i) Sliding plate bearings.
construction of free end
The for slab bridges is shown in figure 5.11(a).
bearings (i) Sliding plate bearings with curved top plate.
8 (iv) Free bearings.
Suitability: This type of bearing can be used upto
m span.
 Bridge Bearings
B-80 Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels B-81
are attached to the bottom of the girder and slides over another
() Fixed plate bearings: These bearings for concrete bridges are so called because they plate, anchored to the capping
slab of the bridge pier or abutment. In order to, pemit any rotational movement, an
have an arangement for fixing the girders to the sub-structure. These bearings do not permit
may be made by placing a thin lead sheet in between the two mild steel plates.
improvement
the expansion of girdeer.
Suitability : Such a bearing is suitable for spans 8 to 16 m.
A simple fixed plate bearing consists of two mild steel plates, bearing onone another with
lat machined surfaces. As shown in figure 5.12, top plate is anchored to the girder and the Cit) Sliding plate bearings with curved top plate : In this type of bearing, an allowance
for for the rotation at the free end of a girder is achieved by providing a curved sole plate which
base plate to the capping slab. In addition to this, a few mild steel rods are provided can rock on the flat bottom plate. These bearings also
dowelling the girders to the capping slab after cutting through the top mild steel plate. Generaly,
permit longitudinal movement of the
between the two mild steel plates to bridge girders. The details of construction of such a bearing are similar to that of the slide plate
a lead sheet whose thickness is 3 mm may also be provided
rotation movement of the girder. bearing.
equalise the bearing pressure and to make provision for slight
suitable for 8 m to 16 m. These bearings are suitable
Suitability: Such bearingsare suitable for spans
varying from 8 to 20m.
Suitability : Such bearings are span
Civ) Free bearings: The bearings which permit free longitudinal and rotational movements
to transmit the horizontal forces to the sub-structure due tothe temperature effect at the free
Such bearings also provide for slight
end and also the forces due to the braking of vehicles. of the bridge girders are known
as
free bearings.
They consist of a roller bearing with a
kuckle pin. The materials used for rollers are either cast steel or mild stel.
rotation movement of the bridge girder.
Of cross beam Sultabilty :Such bearings are suitable for spans varying from 20 to 27 cm.

+5.4.3. Bearings for submersible bridges

In case of small submersible bridges having slab spans, no special bearing, except a few
layers of tar paper biuminous coats applied
or
the capping slab, is provided. In submersible
over

bridges, the slabs

lose of weight are simply subjected to sliding action due to the flow of water during floods,
due to buoyancy, forces arising out of impact from floating debris, forces due to
M.S.
plates eddies and currehts, etc. t is, thus essential to anchor the bridge slab to the capping slab and
the sub-structure. When anchoring provision is made at the free end, the
longitudinal expansion
Hard or contraction of the
bridge slab
due to the temperature variations should also be taken care of
lead
sheet
by inserting the dowel bar through a pipe filled with bitumen or mastic as shown in figure 5.14.
Premoulded filler

Epansion gap
Gl. pipe Slab
plate bearing.
Flg. 5.12. Fixed

This is the simplest type of expansion

bearing for concrete -Dowel bar

(i) Sliding plate bearings: consist of a sole plate which

shown in These bearings
figure 5.13. simply
girder bridges and is Bitumen or-
mastic

Pier cap

Girder
Girder ler

ead plate
in2 nos.
berween
M.S. M.S. plate-
plates
Nut-
Rods welded
on the M.S.
plate Fig. 5.14. Bearing for a submersible bridge.
Pier cap

Flg. 5.13. Sliding plate bearing

B-82 Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels Bridge Bearings B-83
Hence, for small submersible bridges, ordinarily two-plate sliding bearings at the free end 92 What are the different types of bearings used for steel girder bridges ?
and two-plate bearing at the fixed end, with or without curvature in the top plate for rocking are
Normally, beärings are classified into the following two categories
provided. The material used for the plates is either copper alloy or stainless steel as it does not
rust.
Fixed bearings
(i) Expansion bearings.
+ 5.4.4. Bearings for continuous span bridges Mention the commonly adopted beárlngs tor coacrete bridges.
In the case when the total length of contimuous spans does not exceed 14 m, there is no neèd Following are the commonly adopted bearings for concrete bridges :
to provide bearings. In such a case, several layers of tar paper may be provided between the 1. Bearings for slab bridges
supporting member and the superstruchre.
Bearings for girder bridges
Whereas, in the case when the total length of continuous spans exceeds 14 m, it is 3. Bearings for subnersible
bridges
necessary toprovide bearings as shown in figure 5.15. 4. Bearings for contiuous
bridges.
Free Free Fixed Free What are the purposes of providing, bearings in a bridge structure 7
The purposes of providing bearings in a bridge structure are as the
following
)To allow longitudinal movement due to the change in temperature.
(i) To allow for angular movement of girder due to the defection under the load.
Fig. 5.15. (ii) To transfer concentrated stresses conming from the top to the abutment cap, pier cap etc.
ultimately leading it to the supporting soil.
In figure 5.15, the maximum length affected by temperature variation is AC. For such a
(iv) To allow stresses developing due to the unequal settlement of any one of the
component either
unit, fixed bearings are provided at one of its intermediate supports pier, abutment etc.
)To resist horizontal forces developed due to application of
5.5. Merits of Using Different Bearings brakes to the vehicies.
What do you mean by expansion bearings ? Enumerate the types of expansion
Fixed type
both
bearing permits deflection. While, expansion type bearing provides all The bearings which alow
bearings.
longitudinal movement of the bridge girders called expansion
well as angular rotation. Now-a-days neoprene bearing has replaced
are
longitudinal as bearings. They are also known as free bearings.
conventional type of bearing. The expansion bearings are further classified into the following types :
) Sliding plate bearings
Jmportant and Expected Questions (i) Deep cast base with
(ii) Rocker and roller bearings
curved plate bearings

Q. Define the following: iv) Rocker bearings with curved base

) Fixed end bearings
(Fixed Bearings (i) Expansion Bearings (n Free end bearings ) Neoprene bearings.
()Freebearings movement of the bridge What are the advantages/merits of Neoprene bearings ??
) Fixed Bearings : The bearings which do not permit any longitudinal Instead of using conventional old bearings modified form of
girders are known as fixed bearings.
The merits of using the same can be listed
neoprene bearing is used now-a-days.
G) Expansion Bearings: The bearings which allow longitudinal
movement of the bridge girders a Initial minimum cost
are called expansion bearings.
slab are known Easy in fixing/connecting
) Free end bearings: The bearings which provide free expansion of the bridge
as free end bearings. () Low maintenance
Fixed end bearings: The which do not provide free expansion
bearings the bridge slab but
of ( Low cost
(tv) movement are known as fixed end bearinggs. (e) Neutral against environment changes
may permit its rotating
() Free bearings: The bearings which permit free longitudinal
and rotational movements of the Removal and replacement easy.
bridgegirders are known as free bearings.
B-84
Eagle's Railways, Bridges and Tunnels
Q lustrate knuckle bearing with a neat sketch. Bridge Bearings B-85
Ans This type of bearing was used when steel
bridges were constructed in In this type of
past.bridge
bearings, there is a device ofkuckle
joint between
kept assembly top and bottom shoe.Knuckie
joint for
of
is used to permit deflection. The knuckle bearing is adopted when it is desired to
provide
Answers
only angular movement of the girder which is fixed to the upper shoe. Now-a-days such bearing
is rarely used.
i BeariB
4
Bearings
nore and 20 m S.
12 m
expansion bearing
3.
6.
20 m
Deep cast base bearing
Glrder Rivets 7. expansion bearings 8 more than 20 m.

Review Questions
1. Define a bearing and mention the
purpose of providing bearings in a bridge.
Differentiate between fixed and
expansion bearings.
shoe Ilustratethe following with sketches:
a)Fixed plate bearing
b) Deep cast base bearing
Rocker pin-
(c) Rocker bearing
N B o t t o m sho0e () Kuckle bearing.
4 Write short notes on
Honey combed
bed plate (a)Sliding plate bearing
b) Neoprene bearing.
Abutrment :' : :i 5.
.
Explain the following with diagrams
a) Types of bridge bearings for steel
bridges
Knuckle bearing. b) Types of bridge bearings for concrete
bridges.
Suitability: This type of bearing is suitable for span exceeding 20 m.

Objective ype uestions ****

Fill in the blanks
L are the devices which are provided on the
top of abutments and piers to allow free
. .

contraction and deflection of bridge

expansion,
super-structure
Fixed plate bearing is suitable only for a limind span of
. of steel girder bridges.
3. Deep cast base bearing is suitable for a span upto. of steel girder bridges.
4. Rocker bearing is suitable for spans....
Sliding plate bearing is the simplest type of .
i a modified form of fixed plate bearing.
7. The bearings which allow longitudinal movement of the bridge girders are
called.. ****

8. Rocker and roller bearings are suitable for spans .

 CHAPTER Maintenance of Bridges
B-87

Table 6.2. Register for inspection and repairs

6 MAINTENANCE OF
BRIDGESS
Sttie Dcdo
toNE)Saya
NAnDateNAee
ericu
R

6.1. Introduction
and
After the
to

components
bridge is

condition to
constructed,

is called maintenance of bridges. The

it is
maintain it in such condition that it functions
in good
absolutely necessary
properly.
to inspect it at
The art of upkeeping the bridge
keep the bridges in best serviceable order for.a longer period
damage to a bridge structure may be either
regular interyals

due to the
The regular inspection
of
trouble and prómpt
defects are allowed to
E
of bridges is a matter of
great importance, since the early detection
attention may avoid costly repairs which may
otherwise be needed if
faulty design or improper construction or due to the aging of the material. It may develop for a long period.
due to the external factors like also occur the maintenance of a Following points are generally inspected for
floods, storms or accidents. bridge:
The defects which develop in any one particular i) Any sign of development of cracks in concrete abutments
component of a bridge structure can extend and piers.
further slowly and as a result, it becomes too weak to sustain the loads. If it is a vital member
i) Any sign of development of cracks in the masonry or concrete
of the structure, it may fail causing total failure of the structure. the bearings. immediately below
The of
details inspection vary with the type of bridge and
construction. Normally, ife span of well constructed bridge can be 100 years and that of
materials employed in its (ii) Any sign of settlement of foundations.
super-struchure can be taken as 60 to 70 years provided due maintenance care is taken. (iv) Expansion joints and bearings for their free action.
Moreover the useful life of bridge is much reduced due to the improper or faulty mainténance. v)Any sign of scour along with maximum depth of scour.
As the lif of bridge is very long, it is also likely that there can be a change in the traffic (vi) Weep holes and other drainage devices provided in abutment walls,
pattern and a bridge designed for lower loads may have to be subjected to higher loads. Super-structure for their functioning. wing walls and
(vii) Depth of and cracks in masonry work in
6.2. Inspection of Steel andEquipment Bridges wing walls.
scour
foundation of piers, abutments and
inspection i_ done annually by a well qualified and
For proper maintenance of bridges, their
(vii) Pitching of slope in protection works.
experienced engineer. Record of inspections for each bridge is prepared on printed forms ina
register, starting from its construction. A specimen form of such inspection report is shown in (ix) Condition of bearings, whether functioning properly or not.
the following tables. ()In case of arch bridge, condition of material used in arches.
Table 6.1. Register for inspection of works (oti) Condition of wearing coat and its thickness.
S.Name. S No. Descrip Comp-Natureor bridge (xci) Water proofing co0at.
o :g on.No leted on ouna Cxrii) Condition of masonry, whether good or weathered.
No
roadCrossing.
Opening (xev) Condition of mortar joints in case of masonry arch bridge.
(xv) Condition of point in case of steel and iron bridge.
(rvi) Detection and tracing of water leakage through bridge decks.
(xvii) Condition of reinforcement, whether exposed anywhere or not in case of concrete
bridge.
B-86
B-88 Eegle's Raitlways, Bridges and Tunnels Maintenance of Bridges
B-89
(rviil) Particulars of remedial measure, already taken against development of cracks in (tii) Repairs formation of cracks, developed in RCC piers and abutments because
to the
case of concrete bridge. of settlement or because of the absence of expansion joints.
Cxrix) The condition of curbs, parapet walls and footpath should be examined in al
respects in case of highway bridges.
Jmportant and Expected Questions
(x)Particulars of repairs and rectification already done in case
of masonry arch
bridge. Deflne the following :
(0 Maintenance of bridges
6.3.Types of Bridge maintenance Jobs Maintensance of bridges: The art of upkeping the bridge coapopénts in good condition to
It is absolutely necessary that every part of the bridge structure is kept under constant keep the bridges in best serviceable order for a longer period is called maintenance of bridges.
observation. For this purpose, a periodic or routine inspection followed by detailed technical Mentlon amy two potnts that are generally inspected for the maintenance of track.
examination, wherever necessary, is essential. The technical inspection, should be entrusted to ns Following points are generally inspected for the maintenance of a bridge .
specially selected and trained personnel. Thus, maintenance jobs can be broadly. classified into 6) Any sign of development of cracks in concrete abutments and piers.
the following two types:
(i) Any sign of development of cracks in the masonry or concrete immediately below the
i) Routine maintenance bearings.
What is meant by the term special maintenance?
Special maintenance.
It is the maintenance work which is carried out after certain period on the basis of detailed
B3.1. Routine Maintenance inspection. It is conducted at intervals of 5 to 6 years or even at smaller intervals depending upon
It is the maintenance work which is carried out regularly on the basis of regular inspection. the design of structure.
after routine inspection. Routine inspection aims to look after
It is carried out anually general
the general examination of structure at regular intervals and the spots having outward physical
What do you understand by maintenanee of bridges?
After the bridge is constructed, it is absolutely necessary to inspect it at regular intervals and to
defects are immediately repaired. maintain it in such condition that it functions properly. The art of upkeeping the bridge components
Routine maintenance of bridges may include the following maintenance jobs: in good condition to keep the bridges in best serviceable order for a longer period is called
maintenance of bridges. The damage to a bridge structn1re may be either due to the faulty design or
i) Maintenance of water proofing coats.
improper construction or due to the aging of the material. It may also occur ue to the external
(i) Maintenance of curbs, railings of parapet walls of the bridge. factors like floods, storms or accidents.
devices.
(iii) Proper functioning of weep holes and other drainage The defects which develop in any one particular component of a bridge structure can extend
of water leakage through the bridge floor. further slowly and as a result, it becomes too weak to sustain the loads. If it is a vital member of
(iv) Detection and rectification the structure, it may fail causing total failure of the structure.
channel.
v) Clearing of obstructions causing scour in the The details of inspection vary with the type of bridge and materials employed in its construction.
(vi) Proper functioning of bearings and expansion joints.
Normally, life span of well constructed bridge can be 100 years and that of super-structure can be
Repairs of piers and abutments for signs of scour. taken as 60 to 70 years provided due maintenance care is taken. Moreover the useful life of bridge
(vii) is much reduced due to the improper or faulty maintenance
6.3.2. Special Maintenance detailedd As the life of bridge is very long. it is also likely that there can be a change in the traffic pattem
out after certain period on the basis of
It is the maintenance work which is carried and a bridge designed for lower loads may have to be subjected to higher loads
at intervals of 5 to 6 years or even at smaller intervals depending
inspection. It is conducted Wrte a short note on routine maintenance of bridge.
upon the design of structure.
It may include the following maintenance jobs:
t is the maintenance work which is carried out regularty on basis
the of regular inspection. It is
carried out annually after general routine inspection. Routine inspection aims to look after the
reinforcement due to disintegration of concrete.
general examination of structure at regular intervals and the spots having outward physical
defects
i Repairs to exposed
result of using bricks or stones of insufficient are immediately repaired.
to breaking of surfaces as a
(i) Repairs
strength.