Bolsegment and elastomeric bearings

Especially in the case of the spherical segment elevations, a true feat was achieved, due to the slenderness of the abutments combined with the gigantic horizontal forces. This is pre-eminently the field in which MAURER stands out.

"We are particularly good at the so-called 'specials'; the larger and more specialized bearings for which additional testing capacity and tools are a requirement," begins Jeroen Melief of MAURER Netherlands. "For the stream valley bridges, we supplied a number of special spherical segment bearings. The bearings are almost as wide as the pillar heads. It is the result of the extremely slim bridge design. Together with our client Boskalis and engineering firm Nobleo, we pulled out all the stops to meet all the wishes and requirements. This was not without a struggle, but partly due to the professional competence of the other parties and thanks to our solid backing in the form of an extensive engineering department in Dortmund, we are able to handle such 'specials' well. We dare to think just outside the box, so that we always manage to find the right solution. Fully drawn out, calculated through and substantiated in accordance with the European EN1337 standard and the Dutch RTD1012 standard."

In total, MAURER delivered 42 spherical segment solutions and ten elastomeric bearings for the N69. Melief: "The bearings were installed by Boskalis and inspected and validated by us in accordance with RTD1012. We are not only distinctive in engineering, but also in service. If requested, we assist our clients with advice and assistance during assembly, without them having to pull out the purse strings for every little thing."