Aohong is a professional manufacturer and supplier of Strip Seal Expansion Joints, designed specifically for bridge applications requiring movement control, watertight sealing, and long-lasting durability. Strip Seal Expansion Joints consist of an elastomeric sealing strip—typically made of EPDM or neoprene—mechanically locked between two high-strength steel edge beams. These joints are ideal for accommodating structural movements ranging from 0 mm to 80 mm, ensuring optimal load transfer, water resistance, and smooth traffic flow across bridge expansion gaps.
Structure and Components of Strip Seal Expansion Joints
1. Steel Edge Beams
The edge beams are fabricated from hot-rolled structural steel conforming to ASTM A709 Grade 50 or S355 standards. Available edge beam types include C-type, E-type, F-type, M-type, and Z-type, selected based on structural requirements and installation environment. Each beam is precision-machined to maximize seal engagement and ensure skid resistance under traffic loads.
2. Elastomeric Strip Seal
The central rubber element is extruded and vulcanized from EPDM or neoprene and complies with ASTM D5973-97(2012) standards. This flexible seal offers watertight performance while allowing thermal expansion and contraction of bridge decks. The seal can be inserted before or after the installation of edge beams and is available in continuous lengths across the full bridge width.
3. Anchorage System
Anchoring elements such as anchor studs, plates, and bars are welded to the edge beams and embedded in high-strength mortar, enabling firm transfer of traffic loads to the bridge substructure. Anchorage layout varies depending on whether the bridge has a skew angle or straight alignment.
Common Sizes and Dimensions
Strip Seal Expansion Joints are typically manufactured in the following standard sizes:
- Edge Beam Length: 1,000 mm – 6,000 mm (custom lengths available)
- Edge Beam Height: 80 mm – 150 mm
- Seal Width: 60 mm – 100 mm
- Movement Capacity: 0 mm – 80 mm (can be extended to 120 mm with custom configurations)
- Steel Thickness: 10 mm – 16 mm (based on beam type)
Different Deformed Steel Drawings
Features of Strip Seal Expansion Joints
- Accommodates thermal movement in both longitudinal and transverse directions.
- Provides watertight performance to protect substructures from rainwater and debris.
- Withstands high vehicular loads, offering strong resistance to wear and tear.
- Skid-resistant surface ensures driving comfort and safety.
- Modular design simplifies installation, inspection, and maintenance.
- Suitable for bridges with slopes, curves, skews, or limited deck depth.
Application of Strip Seal Expansion Joints
- Highways and expressways
- Concrete and asphalt bridges
- Restoration of old joints
- Curved, skewed, and wide-span bridges
- Bridge deck expansions of up to 80 mm
The system is ideal for both new constructions and replacement projects, offering fast installation and minimal disruption.
