Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) Data for Site-Specific LRFR Bridge Load Rating

The live load factors in the Load and Resistant Factor Rating (LRFR) Manual are based on load data from Ontario thought to be representative of traffic volumes nationwide. However, in accordance with the methodology for developing site-specific live load factors in the provisions of the LRFR Manual, live load factors for six locations in Alabama were developed using statistical weigh-in-motion (WIM) data. WIM data were collected from six sites in Alabama, including sites located on state and interstate routes. Data were collected throughout the year and in both travel directions to account for possible seasonal and directional variations. Different WIM data collection windows were also analyzed to determine the minimum required collection window to achieve statistically valid results. WIM records representing truck traffic at each WIM site were categorized based on weight in accordance with the Code of Alabama and Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) practices. This analysis of WIM data in Alabama resulted in lower live load factors for each of the six sites than those presented in the LRFR Manual. It is recommended that ALDOT consider using these lower live load factors to more accurately represent the load rating of bridges across the state.

• Record URL:
  • http://utca.eng.ua.edu/files/2012/01/10204-Final-Report.pdf
• 
• Supplemental Notes:
  • This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Transportation, University Transportation Centers Program.
• Corporate Authors:

  University of Alabama, Birmingham

  Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
  1075 13th Street South
  Birmingham, AL  United States  35294

  University Transportation Center for Alabama

  University of Alabama
  Tuscaloosa, AL  United States  35487

  Research and Innovative Technology Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Uddin, Nasim
  • Zhao, Hua
  • Waldron, Christopher
  • Dong, Li
  • Greer, Amber
• Publication Date: 2011-8-12

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Edition: Final Report
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 24p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridges; Data collection; Live loads; Load and resistance factor design; Load factor; Weigh in motion
• Geographic Terms: Alabama
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01370210
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: UTCA Report Number 10204
• Contract Numbers: GR21710
• Files: UTC, TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: May 16 2012 3:06PM