Style M251 AASHTO Grade 3 black neoprene bearing pad is used as economical efficient bearing plates for pre-cast, pre-stressed concrete or steel beams in bridges and buildings. Neoprene Pads permit a smooth and uniform transfer of load from the beam to the substructure, allow beam rotation at the bearing due to deflection of the beam under load. They further allow lateral and longitudinal movement of the beam caused by thermal forces. Neoprene Pads have no moveable parts and thermal expansion and contraction are absorbed by the pad’s ability to give and take in shear. There is no sliding between pad and beam or between pad and abutment.