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Abstrait:
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Bridge expansion joints are key structural components that are subjected to very demanding dynamic loading. Even though modern expansion joints are being continuously developed and improved, they are generally still much less robust and less durable than the main structure. Therefore, replacement of expansion joints is commonly required in the maintenance of our transportation infrastructure. In carrying out such replacement work, the impacts on traffic and on the bridge’s superstructure should be minimised, for economic and sustainability reasons. This paper presents various expansion joint replacement methods which minimise such impacts, for a wide range of scenarios and movement requirements. The methods described cover single gap joints, sliding finger joints and modular joints – which, where appropriate, retain and use elements of suitably designed existing joints, thus optimising the replacement process in various respects.
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