About Project

A significant Rail Under Bridge (RUB) has been constructed over the Mumbai-Pune Expressway near Chikhale station as part of the new Panvel-Karjat suburban rail corridor project. Project Details Purpose: The RUB is a crucial part of the Panvel-Karjat double-track suburban rail corridor, an initiative by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) III. Structure: The underpass features four 61-meter long Open Web Girders (OWG) to accommodate both the Up and Down railway lines. Two girders span each direction of the expressway (Mumbai-Pune and Pune-Mumbai). Impact: The new suburban corridor is projected to significantly cut travel time between CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Karjat by nearly half an hour for commuters.

Challenges

Heavy Load Transmission: Open Web Girders carry significant load from train operations. The bearings at the support points needed to withstand high compressive forces without deformation over time. Constant Vibrations and Dynamic Stress: Train movement generates continuous vibration, impact forces, and structural oscillations. A suitable material was required to absorb these stresses safely. Weather Exposure and Longevity Requirements: Bridge components are exposed to: Intense sunlight, Heavy monsoon conditions, Temperature variations, Dust and pollution from the expressway The elastomer must retain elasticity and strength for decades under these conditions. Precision Seating for Girders: OWGs require stable and evenly distributed support at the bearing points to prevent misalignment, metal wear, or stress concentration.

Our Solutions

Excellent Load-Bearing Performance: The pads provided uniform load distribution under the massive OWG structures, ensuring stable seating and preventing stress concentration. Superior Vibration & Shock Absorption: EPDM’s inherent resilience effectively absorbed vibrations from rail operations, protecting both the girders and substructure. Outstanding Weather & Ozone Resistance: Ideal for long-term outdoor use, EPDM pads offered: UV resistance, Ozone resistance, Water and moisture tolerance, Temperature stability ensuring consistent performance throughout the lifespan of the bridge. Reduced Noise Transmission: The pads minimized noise transfer from the bridge to the supporting structures, important for both structural longevity and commuter comfort.

Impact & Results

  • Ensuring safe and stable installation of the 61-meter Open Web Girders
  • Enhancing vibration control, reducing long-term structural stress
  • Supporting smooth commissioning of girder launching operations
  • Providing a durable, weather-resistant bearing solution suitable for expressway and rail environments
These pads will continue to play a vital role as the corridor becomes operational, helping maintain structural integrity for decades to come.Download the EPDM Rubber Pad Brochure