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QCML Criteria for Elastomeric Bridge Bearing Pads

This criteria was qualified by MassDOT as of the date posted: January 05, 2026

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

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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.

QCML Listing, Expiration, and Re-Qualification

Once qualified, the EBB will be listed on the MassDOT QCML. The facility shall be re-qualified on an annual basis. The facility shall remain on the qualification list unless one of the following occurs: 

  • MassDOT RMS determines that the EBB no longer meets the minimum requirements
    of the Standard Specifications or the AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions
    Testing audit program.
  • The facility was not audited by AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions Testing
    during the most recent audit cycle.
  • It is determined that material supplied by the facility does not meet MassDOT
    requirements.
  • MassDOT RMS determines that the EBB no longer meets the minimum
    requirements.

A written request for re-qualification must be submitted to the Department at least 60 days prior to the expiration date to remain on the QCML.

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