Suspension Dynamics - Experimental Findings and Regulatory Implications

Faced with escalating maintenance costs, road regulatory authorities are showing increased interest in experimental findings reported in several studies regarding the important effect heavy vehicle dynamic axle loads have on pavement deterioration. The present paper summarizes the predominant aspects of the interaction between the mechanical characteristics of the vehicle system, the road roughness and the dynamic axle loads, and describes how this interaction leads to premature degradation of the roadway. The principle conclusion is that substantial increase in pavement longevity can be achieved by the use of properly designed suspension systems. A framework is proposed for evaluating the vertical dynamic performance of heavy vehicle suspension systems.