Evaluation of Totally Enclosed Elastomeric Bearing as a Hinge Joint Base of Guyed VLF Tower.

Abstract

The Civil Engineering Laboratory (CEL) has conducted an evaluation of a totally encased elastomeric bearing as a hinge bearing joint at the base of large guyed VLF towers. The test program included laboratory evaluation of a bearing from Andre Rubber Company Limited, as well as a CEL-fabricated bearing; field measurements of tower base movements at Annapolis, Maryland; and finite element analysis of bearing components. Results indicate that encased elastomeric bearings similar to the Andre bearing are suitable for use as base hinges. Geometric modifications of the steel components must be made to reduce contact stresses during application of horizontal shear loads from the tower. In addition, special precaution must be taken to ensure that the elastomer is properly lubricated and is isolated from oxidation and ozone attack. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1976
Accession Number
ADA033482

Entities

People

  • G. Warren

Organizations

  • Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Chemistry
  • Civil Engineering
  • Creep
  • Elastomers
  • Engineering
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Materials
  • Materials Science
  • Measurement
  • Mechanics
  • Natural Rubber
  • Shear Modulus
  • Shear Stresses
  • Stress Strain Relations
  • Stresses
  • Structural Engineering
  • Tensile Strength

Readers

  • Facility/Structural Engineering.
  • Polymer Science and Engineering.
  • Tribology (the study of the boundary interaction between sliding surfaces, lubrication, wear and friction).