Many forms of construction use expansion joints. They are used to help relieve stress caused by structural movement. This gives strength and flexibility to structures and allows them to move safely instead of the movement causing damage.
Structural movement can be caused by many factors such as wind, temperature changes and even earthquakes. Engineers must take these causes into account before beginning construction and take relevant measures to ensure they are properly addressed.
Bridges in particular utilise expansion joints as they often need more support due to the weight that they bear. Bridges need to be strong but also flexible to ensure the safety of those that use them. If a bridge is not properly built it can have disastrous consequences.
Bridge expansion joints help accommodate movement within the structure and prevent the bridge from warping or bending. This keeps bridges safe for use, allowing traffic to travel across safely. It also prevents structural damage to the bridge itself, making it durable and robust.
There are many kinds of expansion joints available, all of which are suitable for different reasons. Finding out which joint is needed for certain structures will help the overall structural integrity of a construction project.
The joint used may also depend on the materials used during construction.
Some joints are more durable than others, some are more suited for different shaped structures and others are used when easy removal and replacement is necessary.
Using the wrong kind of joint can hinder its effectiveness. If you construct using something that can only absorb a small amount of movement when a lot of movement will be present, it can cause structural failure.
Calculating expected movement requirements can eliminate this issue and help you decide on the most suitable expansion joint for your project.