Evaluation of Spring Load Restriction Removal Protocols
Deciding when to remove spring load restrictions (SLRs) on roadways is complicated given the variable time window during and after thawing when excess moisture remains in the base and subgrade layers, causing the overall roadway structure to remain weak. The main objective of this project was to develop an economical and easy-to-use protocol for timing SLR removal. To develop the model, the research team utilized falling weight deflectometer (FWD) data from three test cells at the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s (MnDOT’s) MnROAD research facility. FWD data from nine other sites were used to validate the model, with three sites in North Dakota, three in New Hampshire, two in New York, and one in Maine. Numerous statistical analyses were performed on the FWD data sets, and model/protocol development considered factors such as base layer and subgrade type, effects of moisture, and depth to the groundwater table. The researchers created a decision tree to help agencies implement the SLR removal guidelines developed in this study. To use the decision tree effectively, it is necessary to know information about the roadway structure, base layer(s), and subgrade soils and the approximate depth to the groundwater table. Using this methodology may help transportation agencies lift their SLRs more quickly than they have in the past.
- Record URL:
- Summary URL:
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Corporate Authors:
Heather Miller & Associates
Mattapoisett, MA United StatesIowa Department of Transportation
Aurora Program
800 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA United States 50010Federal Highway Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC United States 20590 -
Authors:
- Miller, Heather J
- Orr, David P
- Berg, Richard L
- Kuzmik, Nick
- Kestler, Maureen A
- Publication Date: 2024-2
Language
- English
Media Info
- Media Type: Digital/other
- Edition: Final Report
- Features: Appendices; Figures; Maps; Photos; References; Tables;
- Pagination: 132p
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Decision trees; Falling weight deflectometers; Size and weight regulations; Subgrade (Pavements); Thaw; Truck traffic
- Subject Areas: Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Pavements; Planning and Forecasting;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01912742
- Record Type: Publication
- Report/Paper Numbers: Aurora Project 2022-07
- Contract Numbers: TPF-5(435)
- Files: NTL, TRIS, USDOT, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Mar 21 2024 1:24PM