Author(s)

C.C. Spyrakos

Abstract

In most design codes the amplification of load and deformation level caused by traffic on bridges is considered with the dynamic load factor (DLF). The purpose of this study is to investigate the validity of current AASHTO code practices in accounting for vehicle-bridge interaction, since there are numerous experimental and analytical studies in the literature that either contradict or support AASHTO practices. In this study, the DLF is evaluated both experimentally and analytically for a commonly used bridge system. Bridges were instrumented and measurements were taken for test vehicle (prototype truck provided by the West Virginia Department of Transportation). The dynamic strains and accelerations recorded were compared with the ones recommended by the AASHT

Keywords