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The RIALTO® system

The components


The RIALTO® system involves the use of various components, whose characteristics are essential for its full effectiveness.

THE RUBBER MEMBRANE

The membrane is made up of successive layers of rubber with interposed polyester fabrics and is produced through a specific technology, which includes various phases of cylindering, vulcanization, trimming, joining, rolling and packaging.

The membranes are produced in the necessary dimensions based on the executive project. The width, for handling reasons, is generally no more than 12 m. The length generally does not exceed 30-40 m to limit the weight of the rolls to be moved on site.

Through an in-depth testing and qualification campaign, RFI has established the performance that the membranes must possess for use on its bridges, as part of the RIALTO® system.

THE HANDLING SYSTEM

Each membrane is supplied rolled on a special metal tube necessary for handling.

To facilitate the unrolling of the membrane on site, it is advisable to prepare additional metal carpentry elements such as lateral sleeves, to allow lifting and unrolling, tension profiles, to allow the membrane to be pulled, without producing tears.

In the case of unrolling transversally to the track, it may be necessary to unwind the membrane from the supply beam and rewind it on a longer laying beam.

THE FIXING SYSTEM

Before fixing the membrane along the bridge, using special metal plugs, it is advisable to eliminate any irregularities in the fixing surface, removing any inconsistent or protruding parts and filling any cavities with suitable mortars.

The edges of the membrane will be protected from water entry by means of a special stainless-steel flashing, also fixed to the ballast walls using metal plugs.

lembi della membrana saranno protetti

HE JOINT SYSTEM

For bridges of considerable length or width, or to proceed in more phases, it is necessary to use membranes joined together.

Riveted joints or overlap joints can be created, both made dry, so as not to require specific weather conditions and drying times.

The joints must be made along the watershed lines of the membrane laying surfaces, so that the water always tends to move away from them.

THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM

The laying surfaces of the membrane are shaped to create valley points towards which the rainwater can flow by gravity. The location and number of valley points is identified from time to time based on the characteristics of the bridge and the quantity of water to be disposed of.

At the valley points, before installing the membrane, it is necessary to arrange the water collection wells, which will thus be located under special holes in the membrane through which the water will be intercepted.

Rimozione dell’armamento e del ballast

The system is completed with the installation of a drainage pipe for the water collected from the well which extends with an adequate slope to the nearest outlet (guard ditch, watercourse, etc.).

Scavo e formazione delle superfici di posa

All joints between the well and the pipes must be made with electro-welded connection sleeves, to achieve perfect sealing of the entire system.

Rimozione dell’armamento e del ballast