Analyzing Deterioration on Arterial Roads Caused by Overloaded Business Vehicles

Abstract

The many business vehicles performing important roles in the distribution of goods and services cause flexible pavement to experience overloading, which will eventually result in diminished pavement quality and durability. Roads need to be maintained periodically to maintain a high level of service. This research aims to discover the pattern of weight increments on overloaded business vehicles with the highest potential for road deterioration; analyze the relationships between said patterns and types of heavy vehicles; and determine what steps and relevant maintenance methods need to be taken. Research is performed on type 6a through 7c3 vehicles weighing 12 to 45 metric tons with various axle configurations, during both peak and off-peak hours on both workdays and holidays, to calculate the Average Daily Traffic in vehicle/day. Load on the road is then calculated to discover load value measured in Equivalent Single Axle Load (ESAL). Load is simulated up to 125 per cent heavier than total permitted weight according to data from Weight in Motion devices installed on certain arterial roads. Remaining pavement life is then calculated with the AASHTO 1993 method in accordance with its planned lifespan. Analysis shows that single-axle vehicles with double rear wheels weighing sixteen metric tons dominate national arterial roads and possess the highest potential to cause deterioration. Road deterioration, most of which consists of various forms of cracks, is accordingly determined using the Binamarga method. Relevant maintenance courses are thus formulated, comprising the forms of routine maintenance, periodical maintenance, and improvements to the roads in question.