Skip to main content

QCML Criteria for Elastomeric Bridge Bearing Pads

This criteria was qualified by MassDOT as of the date posted: September 26, 2023

For Elastomeric Bridge Bearing Pad (EBB) Manufacturers to be listed on the Qualified Construction Materials List (QCML), products must meet the requirements of Subsection M9.14.5 of MassDOT’s Standard Specifications, contract special provisions, and all Material and Testing Requirements outlined herein.

Skip table of contents

Table of Contents

You skipped the table of contents section.

Material Properties

Elastomeric Bearing Pads shall be plain or laminated.

Plain Elastomeric Bearing pads shall consist of the following:

  • Elastomer

Laminated elastomeric bearing pads shall consist of the following:

  • Elastomer
  • Internal Steel Laminates
  • Tapered Internal Load Plates (if used)

Elastomeric Bearing Pad shall conform to Subsection M9.14.5 as well as the following material requirements:

  • Products shall meet the requirements of:
    • AASHTO M 251
    • AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications

Elastomer Material Requirements:

  • Elastomers shall meet the requirements of AASHTO M 251 Section 4.1.
    • The elastomer compound shall be 100% virgin neoprene and classified as being of low-temperature grade 3.

Steel Laminate Material Requirements:

  • Laminated elastomeric bearing pads shall consist of layers of elastomers restrained at their interfaces by bonded metal laminates.
  • Steel Laminates shall meet the requirements of AASHTO M 251 Section 4.2.

Submittal and Testing Requirements

AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions Testing Requirements:

  • The following criteria must be met as part of the product submission.
    • Elastomeric Bearing Pad Manufacturers shall be audited annually by the AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions audit program.
    • AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions shall find that the facility is in compliance with the Elastomeric Bridge Bearings Work Plan.

Product Listing, Expiration, and Re-Approval

Once approved, the Elastomeric Bearing Pad Manufacturer will be listed on the MassDOT QCML. Products are reviewed and renewed on an Annual Basis. The Manufacturer's facility shall remain on the approved list unless one of the following occurs:

  • If the Elastomeric Bearing manufacturer is not audited by AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions on the most recent audit cycle in accordance with the Elastomeric Bridge Bearings Work Plan.
  • If the Manufacturer no longer meets the minimum requirements of the AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions Elastomeric Bridge Bearings Work Plan. 
  • MassDOT RMS determines that the Manufacturer or their products no longer meet the minimum requirements of the Standard Specifications.

Help Us Improve Mass.gov  with your feedback

Please do not include personal or contact information.
Feedback