Practical Guide to the Use of Bridge Expansion Joints AG 29

Because of the inconsistency of performance associated with expansion joints in bridges, a Working Group was created to propose the means to improve their usage and reduce the incidence of premature failure and leakage. The research results of this Working Group (see accompanying report, TRL 236, above) have formed the basis for this guide, which sets out procedures and recommendations for the better use and procurement of bridge expansion joints. This practical guide takes the bridge engineer through selecting, specifying, purchasing, installing and maintaining an expansion joint to achieve good performance. It follows a logical sequence, beginning with a short background note and a description of the joint types and other terms used in the report and then goes on to cover the whole process of joint provision and maintenance. It includes details of whole life costing and optional procurement methods as an aid to joint selection, together with sketches of recommended details for joint installation.