Small gaps are left between the joints of concrete slabs on bridges to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction. As temperatures change, concrete can expand and shrink, and these gaps help prevent cracking or other structural damage. Additionally, the joints allow for water drainage and reduce the risk of freeze-thaw cycles damaging the concrete. Overall, these gaps are essential for maintaining the integrity and longevity of the bridge structure.
because large slabs of concrete have expansion joints between them.
Concrete expands and contracts depending on the temperature. The strips are called expansion joints.
Those are expansion joints. During the changing seasons with varying temperatures, the slabs expand and contract. The spaces allow the slabs to expand without cracking the concrete.
Asim Yeginobali has written: 'Continuous skewed slabs' -- subject(s): Bridges, Concrete, Concrete Bridges, Elastic plates and shells, Strains and stresses
Large concrete slabs should be laid with expansion joints to accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of the material due to temperature fluctuations. Without these joints, the slabs can experience cracking, warping, or buckling as they shift. Expansion joints allow for movement while maintaining structural integrity, ensuring the longevity and functionality of the concrete surface. This practice minimizes maintenance costs and enhances safety by preventing surface failure.
Vernon Peter Jensen has written: 'Ultimate strength of reinforced concrete beams as related to the plasticity ratio of concrete' -- subject(s): Reinforced concrete, Girders, Testing, Strains and stresses 'Highway slab-bridges with curbs' -- subject(s): Girders, Bridges, Concrete, Strains and stresses, Concrete Bridges 'Solutions of certain rectangular slabs continuous over flexible supports' -- subject(s): Girders, Bridges, Concrete, Strains and stresses, Concrete Bridges
in between existing concrete and the new concrete you need to place an expansion joint in between the two.
Concrete slabs are a common building material. Sometimes they are re-enforced with steel roods for extra stability. Concrete slabs are either prefabricated or created insitu.
The material used to fill the space between concrete slabs is often called "joint filler" or "joint sealant." It helps prevent water and debris from entering the gaps, provides flexibility for movement, and can help extend the life of the concrete.
The purpose of an expansion joint on a bridge it to permit the components to expand and contract with changing temperatures without stressing the entire bridge structure. Early bridge failure would be the result of building a modern bridge without expansion joints.
If you live in an area that has temperature below 32 degrees F during the winter you need to caulk joints. Water can get in the crack and cause freeze cracking. Water expands when it is frozen.
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