UBC Undergraduate Research

Bridge load rating : is GVW the sole consideration? Mellstrom, Charlotte

Abstract

Load limits on bridges are determined using a design vehicle configuration. This paper examines the maximum shear force and bending moment exerted by different forest vehicles on three bridge lengths. Parameters were inputted into BRIDGEframe software for analysis. Machines that have a different load configuration than the design vehicle can exert a maximum shear force and maximum bending moment that is higher than the design vehicle, even if the GVW is lower. Results show that a professional engineer should be consulted about the safety of the crossing of a vehicle that is significantly different from the design vehicle configuration.

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Rights

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International