Python Pot - pot metal bridge bearings

Python Pot designate a series of bearings of type "pot" in which a cylindrical unreinforced elastomeric block is contained in an enclosure shaped like a cylinder with a flat piston. Under the action of vertical loads, the elastomer behaves like a fluid under pressure, by distributing evenly -- across the inner surfaces of the walls of the cylindrical enclosure in which it is contained – the reaction to its compression efforts. Python Pot are metal bridge bearings.

There are two categories of Python Pot bridge bearings : PYTHON POT G and PYTHON POT Q, as shown in photo gallery below.

PYTHON POT G and Q - sealed neoprene, standard sizes, loads up to 800-60000 kiloN.

Both PYTHON POT G and PYTHON POT Q bearings are composed of captive blocks of neoprene, encapsulated into metal plunger-cylinder systems. They show very good mechanical characteristics, high compressive strength capacity, good permeability to horizontal movements and certain tolerance to tilt (0.02 rad).

They are easy to install and can be used in large and very large bridges, being able to withstand loads between 0.8 MegaN and 60 MegaN. Neoprene blocks encapsulated in metal are safe from weather conditions, thus giving to the whole ensemble a lifespan of over 50 years.

Semi-mobile PYTHON POT G bearings are equipped with a pair of side guides, which transmit horizontal forces directly to the lower anchor plate. Given a neat installation, this version provides extremely efficient transmission of the horizontal forces with a positive effect in improving capacity of the earthquake resistance of the structure.

(By contrary, the Semi-mobile PYTHON POT Q bearings are equipped with a central guide which shows tolerance to any possible deviations from the installation geometry -- rotation around the vertical axis of symmetry of upper anchoring plate toward the lower plate).

Responsiveness to the strong horizontal forces of the Fixed bearings (in any horizontal direction) and Semi-mobile (in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the guide) is over 10% of the nominal value of the vertical loads supported.

The settlement from compression at maximum vertical load is maximum a 2% of the total height of the bearing.

For Mobile bearings and Semi-mobile, the low friction of polished stainless steel plate on the underside of the upper anchor plate and PTFE plate fitted to the upper side of the piston ensures an easy sliding to ease heat, even under the action of substantial vertical loads. Using silicone lubricant with code 5201, the coefficient of friction is 0.03 in normal temperature (or 0.06 for low temperatures).

The installation is done in cuffs fastened with bolts threaded for easy installation and maintenance.

Their qualities recommend them as fully adequate for bearing structures with high supporting strength, large horizontal movements combined with slopes.

We provide you below with a list of dimensions and technical specifications for each of these bearings.

PYTHON POT - G - various sizes for Fixed bearings

PYTHON POT - G - various sizes for Semi-mobile bearings

PYTHON POT - G - various sizes for Mobile bearings