Fugelemente

Fugelemente, also known as expansion joints or movement joints, are essential components in construction and engineering designed to accommodate the thermal expansion and contraction of building materials, as well as structural settlement and seismic movements. Without fugelemente, buildings and other structures could experience significant stress, leading to cracking, deformation, and even catastrophic failure.

These elements are typically inserted between adjacent sections of a larger structure, such as walls, floors, bridges, or pavements. They create a deliberate gap that allows these sections to move independently without transferring undue stress to each other. The design and material of a fugelement vary widely depending on its intended application and the magnitude of expected movement. Common materials include rubber, neoprene, metal, foam, and specialized polymers.

In buildings, fugelemente are often found in long walls, at the intersection of different building materials, or where a building is constructed on unstable ground. In bridge construction, they are critical for managing the expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations and traffic loads. Pavement joints in roads and sidewalks serve a similar purpose, preventing buckling and cracking due to temperature changes and vehicle weight. The proper installation and maintenance of fugelemente are crucial for the long-term integrity and safety of any structure.