MAURER supplies expansion joints, bearings, and dampers for bridge and viaduct projects. One of MAURER's global projects in this area is the Champlain Bridge project over the Saint Lawrence River in Montreal, Canada. For this project, Maurer chose its Guided Crosstie product and supplied it along with a derailment prevention device as part of the new project.
The total bridge length is 3.4 km, the main span is 240 m, and the height is 170 m. The first version of the bridge was built in 1962. However, strong winds, harsh winters, and earthquakes required a new solution for the bridge.
The main requirements for expansion joints for this railroad bridge were:
The Guided Crosstie expansion joint used for railroad bridges has the same logic as the Swivel Joist designed for motor roads. However, due to its railroad application, it is subjected to greater loads, considering the high speed and fast braking of trains.
Test results show that the expansion joint allows for displacement over a total distance of 10 km. The bridge's overall lifespan is 125 years, with the expansion joint's lifespan being a minimum of 60 years.
The total bridge length is 3.4 km, the main span is 240 m, and the height is 170 m. The first version of the bridge was built in 1962. However, strong winds, harsh winters, and earthquakes required a new solution for the bridge.
The main requirements for expansion joints for this railroad bridge were:
- Complete waterproofing
- Work should not disrupt traffic flow
- The ability to install a durable plate in the center of the concrete road
- Perfect opening and closing of gaps
- Ability to operate at temperatures from -35 to +40 degrees
The Guided Crosstie expansion joint used for railroad bridges has the same logic as the Swivel Joist designed for motor roads. However, due to its railroad application, it is subjected to greater loads, considering the high speed and fast braking of trains.
Test results show that the expansion joint allows for displacement over a total distance of 10 km. The bridge's overall lifespan is 125 years, with the expansion joint's lifespan being a minimum of 60 years.
