Analysis of Axle Load Pattern of Freight Transport on Selected Locations of N-5

Abstract

This research work explicitly aims on analysis of Axle load pattern in Pakistan. Paved road network is a valuable asset of Transportation system which had been deteriorated by overloaded vehicles. At present in Pakistan the pavements are designed by converting axle weight data and then combine them into an Equivalent Single Axle Load (ESAL), which cannot be used to reflect the response of the pavement material to loading. The purpose of this study is to collect the Load Data and Vehicle Classification Count from WIM stations, by which we can calculate truck factor and apply these truck factor to redesign our roads according to actual axle loading. More than 14000 vehicles have been analyzed in this research. The damaging effect of various truck types was found to be quite high. 3-Axle truck was found to be most damaging on this test section and results in high value of average EALF. It was observed that road performance is influenced by high value of EALF. High EALF accelerates road deterioration thereby requiring frequent overlays. This result in higher values of total transport cost which is not economically beneficial. It was observed that existing design EALF used was not representing the actual loading conditions and is towards lower side. The existing truck factor limits in Pakistan needs to be revised, optimum truck factor limits worked out in this study, as a model case can be introduced to evaluate higher economical value. Truck factor/axle load limits needs to be enforced strictly to save road infrastructure.