Analysis of the effect of superheavy load vehicles: a review of current criteria

Abstract

The analysis of damage caused by vehicles with atypical load magnitudes and axle conditions on flexible pavements is challenging for engineers. This analysis determines whether the road network's use by this type of vehicle is authorized or denied. Consequently, it is a fundamental part of the planning and final cost estimation associated with transporting specific loads. In the literature available, different approaches are presented to address this problem. In this paper, the background in these approaches is presented, and their advantages and limitations are discussed. A compilation of different criteria can cover more broadly the aspects relevant to this type of analysis. However, some conceptual weaknesses can be identified in some standards currently available, leaving room for future research to improve how the effect of superheavy vehicles is analyzed.