When it comes to large-scale infrastructure such as bridges, highways, and high-rise buildings, the spotlight often falls on architectural design, materials, and load capacity. But beneath the grandeur and engineering marvel lies a less visible yet absolutely essential component: the structural bearing. Acting as the interface between a structure’s superstructure and substructure, structural bearings are the silent heroes that enable stability, flexibility, and longevity under constant pressure.

At Kubri Engineered Solutions, we are proud to be the exclusive Australian provider of MAURER Structural Bearings, one of the most advanced and globally trusted bearing technologies in the industry.

What Are Structural Bearings & Why Are They Crucial?

Structural bearings are components installed between the upper and lower parts of a structure to facilitate the transfer of vertical and horizontal loads, while also accommodating rotations and displacements caused by thermal expansion, shrinkage, creep, seismic activity, or dynamic loads from traffic or wind.

Without these highly engineered components, structures would be overly constrained, creating internal stresses that could compromise their integrity over time. In essence, structural bearings help structures move safely, rather than resist movement entirely.

Types of Maurer Structural Bearings

MAURER offers a comprehensive portfolio of structural bearings designed to meet the unique performance needs of every infrastructure project:

1. Elastomeric Bearings

These bearings are made from high-quality elastomers that can absorb and accommodate movements resulting from load fluctuations, thermal expansion, and shrinkage.

• Cost-effective
• Maintenance-free
• Ideal for bridges and buildings requiring flexibility with minimal upkeep

2. MSM®/MSA® Spherical Bearings

Equipped with Maurer’s patented MSM® sliding material, these bearings are designed for heavy vertical loads and large rotations.
•  Low friction
•  High durability
•  Ideal for high-demand projects like long-span bridges and stadiums
•  Resistant to extreme conditions and wear

3. Pot Bearings

These bearings feature an elastomeric pad enclosed in a steel pot, allowing for controlled rotation in all directions. They can support very large vertical loads (up to 50 MN) and provide sliding movement when combined with sliding plates.
•  Trusted for bridges and viaducts globally
•  Versatile in both fixed and guided configurations

4. Special Bearings

Some projects require custom solutions. MAURER’s special bearings are engineered for non-standard applications that involve complex displacements, high forces, or extreme environmental demands.
•  Custom-designed to meet exact project needs
•  Supported by decades of engineering expertise

You can download the full set of Maurer brochures, including the Structural Bearings brochure, for detailed specifications and performance data.

How They Function: A Look at Movement Control

All Maurer bearings are engineered to accommodate structural movements while transmitting loads efficiently. They are available in configurations that allow different combinations of movement and restraint:

• Fixed Bearings: Allow rotation but restrict displacement in all directions
• Guided-Sliding Bearings: Allow movement in one direction while restraining it in another
• Free-Sliding Bearings: Allow displacement in both horizontal directions with full rotational capability

This flexibility allows engineers to control stress distribution, ensure longevity, and maintain the structural integrity of bridges and buildings under a wide range of environmental and operational conditions.

Certified Quality That Engineers Trust

All MAURER bearings are CE-marked in accordance with EN 1337 and ETA-06/0131, and can also be manufactured to meet AASHTO, German standards, and other international or project-specific certifications — including applications for nuclear facilities. Continuous quality control during production ensures reliability, safety, and performance across all bearing types.

Why Choose KES for Structural Bearings in Australia?

As the exclusive agent for MAURER in Australia, Kubri Engineered Solutions brings world-class German engineering to local projects — supported by expert technical guidance, tailored recommendations, and reliable after-sales service.

Whether you’re constructing a new bridge, retrofitting infrastructure, or building high-performance facilities, we help you select and integrate the right bearing technology for your specific conditions and performance requirements.

See MAURER structural bearings in action — explore KES projects here.

A Foundation of Strength and Flexibility

While they may be hidden from view, structural bearings play a visible role in structural safety and longevity. Choosing the right bearings — and the right partners — is not just a technical decision; it’s a strategic one.

Let KES and MAURER be the force beneath your structure that absorbs, adapts, and endures.

Facing complex load or movement requirements in your infrastructure?
Let’s work together to specify the right structural bearing for your project. Contact us now!