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5USS. Library of Congress Catalog Card No. 81-68616
Copyright © 1981 The Asphalt Institute
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Alll reasonable care has been taken in the preparation
of this Manual; however, the Asphalt Institute can
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measurement: The Interafional System of Unit, G@
‘SI (metric), followed by U.S. Customary Units, ies
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PRINTED IN USA
=TAAAANMARAANAMEMBERS OF THE ASPHALT INSTITUTE
(As of October 2002)
* Akzo Nobel Surface Chemisty LLG,
Willowtrook, Hino
Al States Asphalt, Inc., Sundertand,
Massachusetts
‘Alon USA, Dallas, Texas
* Andre In., Muskegon, Michigan
*AnMaz Products, Winter Haven, Florida
‘Asphalt Materials, In, Indkanapals, Indiana
‘Asphalt Processors Incorporated, Barbados,
West Indies
Associated Asphalt, Inc, Roanoke, Virginia
ATOFINA Petrochemicals, Inc, Houston, Texas
“ATOFINA Petrochemicals, Inc, Houston,
Texas
Bitumar Inc, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Bituminous Products Company, Maumee, Ohio
“Bouchard Coastwise Management Corp,
Hicksville, New York
BP, Whiting, Indiana
Caltex Corporation, Sydney, Australia
Canadian Asphalt Industries Inc., Markham,
Ontario, Canada
ChevronTexaco Corp., San Ramon, California
CITGO Asphalt Refining Company, Plymouth
‘Meeting, Pennsyivania
Colas, S.A, Paris, France
ConocoPhilps, Houston, Texas
Consolidated Of & Transportation Co, Inc,
Englewood, Colorado
‘CORASFALTOS, Piedecuesta, Colombia
Dexco Polymers (A DowExxontobil
Partnership), Houston, Texas
“DuPont, Wilmington, Delaware
*Dynasol LLC, Houston, Texas
EMCO Building Products td, LaSalle, Quebec,
Canada
Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions, In, Jackson,
Mississippi
ExxonMobil Lubricants & Petroleum Speciaties
Company, Fairfax, Virginia
EoxontMobil Lubricants & Petroleum Speciaties
Company (Intemational), Fairfax,
Virginia
Frontier Terminal & Trading Company, Tulsa,
Oktzhora
GAF Materials Corporation, Wayne, New Jersey
Gorman Asphalt, LTD, Rensselaer, New York
“Heateo Ino. Chattanooga, Tennessee
‘The Hudson Companies, Providence, Rhode Istand
Hunt Refining Company, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Husky Oil Marketing Company, Calgary, Alberta,
Canada
1KO, Chicago, linois
Imperial Oi, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Isfat AS, Uskudar, Istanbul, Turkey
ebro Inc, Sioux City, lowa
Koch Maleials Company, Wichita, Kansas
Kokosing Materials, Inc, Fredericktown, Ohio
*KRATON Polymers, Houston, Texas
Lafarge Asphalt Engineering, ADhsion of Lafarge
Construction and Materials, Inc,
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC, Findlay, Ohio
E.A Mariani Aspralt Co, Ine, Tampa, Florida
Mathy Construction Company, Onalaska,
Wisconsin
Measphalt Industries Ld, Scarborough, Ontario,
Canada
‘Moose Jaw Asphalt Inc., Moose Jaw,
Saskatchewan, Canada
‘Murphy Oil USA, Ine, Superior, Wisconsin
NlynYées Bitumen, Brussels, Beigium
Oldcastie Materials Group, Washington, D.C.
Paramount Petroleum Corporation, Paramount,
California
*Penn Maritime, Inc, Stamford, Connecticut
Petro-Canada In., Oakile, Ontario, Canada
Petroleo Brasiiro, S.A. - Petrobras, Rio de
Janeiro, Bri
*Polimeri Europa Americas, Inc, Houston, Texas
RECOPE, Catago, Costa Rica
REPSOL YPF, Machid, Spain
"Rhoda Inc, Cranbury, Nev Jersey
"ohm and Haas Company, North Andover,
Massachusetts
* Safety-Kleen, Oil Recovery Division, Elgin, Hinois
San Joaquin Refining Co, Ino, Bakersfield,
California
Sargeant Marine, Ine, Boca Raton, ora
Seneca Petroleum Co, Inc, Crestwood, tlinals
Shel Canada Products, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Shel International Petroleum Company Limited,
London, England
Sheil Ol Products US, Burbank, California
Sk Corporation, Seoul, Korea
* Sprague Energy Corp, Portsmouth, New
Hampshire
Suit-Kote Corporation, Cortland, New-York
“Terry Industies, nc, Hamilton, Ohio
Tesoro Refining and Marketing Company,
Anacortes, Washington
TexPar Energy, In, Waukesha, Wisconsin
‘Trumbull Products (Division of Owens Corning),
Toledo, Otio
“Ultrapave Corporation, Resaca, Georgia
United Refining Company, Warren, Pennsyvania
US. Oil & Refining Company, Tacoma, Washington
Valero Energy Corporation, San Antonio, Texas
Werden Modified Asphal, Harisburg, Pennsylvania
* Alfiiate Member
A.
ASPHALT INSTITUTE
Executive Office and
Research Center
Research Park Drive
P.O. Box 14052
Lexington, KY 40512-
4052
Tel: 859-288-4960
Fax: 859-288-4999
‘wwwaasphaltinstituts.com(GGG EV BE GE EUG SE GE SE EEEFOREWORD
This edition of MS-1 is a revision of the Ninth Edition of the Asphalt Institute’s
Thickness Design manual, originally published in 1981. The major change in this revision
is the inclusion of thickness design charts for three typical sets of environmental condi-
tions which represent most of North America.
The procedures presented here are based on an application of elastic layer theory to
pavement design that utilizes the results of currently acceptable research. Advances in
asphalt pavement technology, new knowledge of materials properties, and changing needs
of the highway system will require future revision and additions to the manual.
The engineers and editors responsible for producing this manual are grateful to the
‘many individuals, companies, and agencies that made contributions to the Ninth Edition,
including the Computer Science Center of the University of Maryland whose facilities
were used in developing the design charts, and Chevron Research Corporation for use of
their N-Layer Computer Program,
Details of the background and development of this design manual can be found in
“Research and Development of the Asphalt Institute’s Design Manual (MS-1) Ninth
Edition,” Research Report No. 82-2 (RR-§2-2), Asphalt Institute. This research report
and many other publications dealing with the various aspects of asphalt pavement design
and construction can be obtained from the Asphalt Institute.
ASPHALT INSTITUTE
iA. Research Park Drive
P.O. Box 14052
Lexington, KY 40512-4052
USA
Telephone: (606)-288-4960
viiCONTENTS
Asphalt Institute Member Companies.
‘Asphalt Inset Engineering Offices:
Foreword
List of litustrations .
List of Tables
List of Charts ....
CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION .
1.01 Scope of the Manual.
1.02 Definitions of Terms .
1.03 Basis of the Manual
1.04 Advantages of Asphalt Bases
1.05 Advantages of Full-Depth Asphalt Pavements .
CHAPTER II: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS .
2.01 Introduction . :
2.02 Classifications of Highways and Streets .
2.03 Selection of Design Input Variables .
2.04 Stage Construction...
2.05 Economic Comparisons.
CHAPTER III: DESIGN PRINCIPLES .
3.01 Basis for Design .
3.02 Design Criteria
3.03. Material Characteristics.
3.04 Environmental Considerations .
3.05 Design Charts .........
CHAPTER IV: TRAFFIC ANALYSIS
4.01 Introduction . .
4.02 Traffic Volume Estimates .
4.03 Estimating EAL.
4.04 Determining Design EAL-
4.05 Parkways and Shoulders... ....- -
CHAPTER V: MATERIALS EVALUATION.
5.01 General
A. Subgrade Soils .
5.02 Definition ....
3.03 Improved Subgrade
5.04 Evaluation Methods
3.05 Sampling and Testing.
5.06 Selection of Design Subgrade Resilient Modulus .4
(
roeeoer
CONTENTS (Cont’d.)
5.07 Subgrade Compaction Requirements . aed - 28
B. Asphalt Concrete Surface and Base Mixtures . 2B
5.08 Material Requirements for Asphalt Concrete . . + 28
5.09 Asphalt Concrete Compaction Criteria . 29
C. Emulsified Asphalt Base Mixtures .. 29
5.10 Material Requirements for Emulsified Asphalt Mixé 29
5.11 Compaction Requirements for Emulsified Asphalt Mixes. = 30
D. Untreated Aggregate Base and Subbase . - 30
5.12 Material Requirements for Untreated Base and Subbase. . 30
5.13 Compaction Requirements for Untreated Aggregate Base ant 30
CHAPTER VI: STRUCTURAL DESIGN PROCEDURE... 33
6.01 Introduction .. a 33
6.02 Design Procedure . . : 33
6.03 Design Traffic, Subgrade, and Materials Input Values - 33
6.04 Environmental Factors ... . ee - 35
6.05 Minimum Thickness of Asphalt Concrete . 7 a 35
6.06 Thickness Determination for Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete Pavements - 36
6.07 Thickness Determination for Emulsified Asphalt Base Pavements ..
6.08 Thickness Determination for Pavements with Asphalt Concrete
Over Untreated Aggregate Base........ oe ea
6.09 Thickness Determination for Pavements with Emulsified Asphalt Mixes
Over Untreated Aggregate Base -39
CHAPTER VII: PLANNED STAGE CONSTRUCTION ....
7.01 Planned Stage Construction ...
7.02 Advantages of Stage Construction
7.03 Design Method
CHAPTER VIII: ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
8.01 Introduction ......
8.02 Basic Factors for Analysis .
8.03 Discussion of Basic Factors
8.04 Salvage Value .........
APPENDIX: THICKNESS DESIGN CHARTS : Sot ateeeeeaeee etree 49ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure
1-1 Spread of wheel-load pressure through pavement structure . ..
12 Pavement deflection results in tensile and compressive stresses in
pavement structure. .. 2
TIE-1 Locations of strains considered in design procedure
IL-2 Subgrade modulus variations for the conditions where freeze-thaw occurs
IV-1 Load Equivalency Factors.
1V-2 Example of a USS. axle load jon..
IV-3 Example worksheet for traffic analysis.
IV-4 EAL Adjustment Factor
VI-l_ Flow diagram for design
TABLES
Table
IV-1 Distribution of Trucks on Different Classes of Highways (United States)
IV-2 Percentage of Total Truck Traffic in Design Lane a
IV-3 Growth Factors . :
IV-4 Load Equivalency Factors
IV-5 Distribution of Truck Factors (TF) for Different Classes of Highways and
‘Vehicles (United States)
V-1 _ Subgrade Soils Tests and Sample Sizes
V2 Subgrade Design Limits
V-3 Untreated Aggregate Base and Subbase Quality Requirements .
Vil Selecting Asphalt Grade
VL2 Minimum Thickness of Asphalt Concrete Over Emulsified Asphalt Base .
VI3 Minimum Thickness of Asphalt Concrete Over Untreated Aggregate BaseDESIGN CHARTS
Charts SI Units (Metric): Blue Pages Page
MAAT7°C
A-1 Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete... 2... ae 3
A-2 Emulsified Asphalt Mix Pee sageagaeeaeeateeeaeeeee . 54
A-3 Emulsified Asphalt Mix PPO eee ae me}
A-4 Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type... 00... 56
A-S Untreated Aggregate Base, 150mm thickness aaESt
A-6 Untreated Aggregate Base, 300mm thickness... . . - 58
MAAT 15.5°C
A-7 Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete ...... 2.20. i - 59
A-8 Emulsified Asphalt Mix Typel.. 0... =» 60
A-9 — Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type. ae . 61
A-10. Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type I ee ..
A-11 Untreated Aggregate Base, 150mm thickness wee . 63
A-12 Untreated Aggregate Base, 300mm thickness . 64
MAAT 24°C
A-13. Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete . . e635
A-14 Emulsified Asphalt Mix TypeI . . -- 6
A-15 Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type II. . 67
A-16 Emulsified Asphalt Mix Typelll . . a wee. OB
A-IT Untreated Aggregate Base, 150mm thickness aero)
A-18 Untreated Aggregate Base, 300mm thickness see
U.S. Customary Units: Yellow Pages
MAAT 45°F
A-19 Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete
A-20 Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type I
A-21_ Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type I
A-22, Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type III
A-23 Untreated Aggregate Base, 6-in. thickness |
A-24 Untreated Aggregate Base, 12-in. thickness
xiA25
A26
A2T
A28
A29
A230
A31
A32
4-33
A384
A35
A36
DESIGN CHARTS (CONTINUED)
MAAT 60°F
Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete... . : 79
Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type I. . : 80
Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type II. - 81
Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type 111 : 82
Untreated Aggregate Base, 6-in. thickness .....-......... - 8
Untreated Aggregate Base, 12-in. thickness... 22.2... 84
MAAT 75°F
Full-Depth Asphalt Concrete. .
Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type... 2...
Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type II
Emulsified Asphalt Mix Type III
Untreated Aggregate Base, 6-in. thickness.
Untreated Aggregate Base, 12-in. thickness
xiiCHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
1.01 SCOPE OF MANUAL
This manual presents a structural thickness design procedure for pavements utilizing
asphalt cement or emulsified asphalt in all, or part, of the structure. Included are various
combinations of asphalt concrete surface, emulsified asphalt surface (with surface
treatment), asphalt concrete base, emulsified asphalt base, and untreated aggregate base
or subbase. Guidelines are offered for defining subgrade properties, material properties,
and traffic values required for the selection of appropriate thickness of the pavement
layers, In addition, there are procedures for stage construction design and economic
analysis. Recommended compaction requirements also are included.
1.02 DEFINITIONS OF TERMS
Common or standard terms are used for the most part, but a number of terms that may
be unfamiliar are used also. Thus, in most cases, terms are explained at appropriate
points in the text. A glossary commences at page 91.
1.03 BASIS OF THE MANUAL
In this manual the asphalt pavement is characterized as a multi-layered elastic system.
Established theory, experience, test data, and an analytical computer program (DAMA)
were used to develop a comprehensive design procedure. The procedure was then
simplified into design charts for use without recourse to computers or complicated test
procedures. The multi-layered elastic analysis computer program, DAMA, and a com-
puter program of the thickness design procedure presented here (HWY) can be obtained
from the Asphalt Institute headquarters.
Two specific stress-strain conditions are considered, as shown in Figures I-1 and I-2.
The first condition is illustrated in Figure I-1(a). Here, the wheel load, W, is transmitted
to the pavement surface through the tire as an approximately uniform vertical pressure,
Po, The pavement structure then spreads the load stresses, thus reducing their intensity
until, at the surface of the subgrade, the vertical pressure has a maximum intensity of
Pi. Figure I-1(b) illustrates the general manner in which the maximum vertical pressure
intensity decreases with depth, from Po to Pi. The second condition is illustrated by
Figure 1-2. Here the wheel load, W, deflects the pavement structure and causes both
tensile and compressive stresses and strains in the asphalt layer.
Criteria for vertical compressive strains induced at the top of the subgrade layer and
maximum tensile strains induced at the bottom of the asphalt layer by wheel loads have
been adopted and used in producing the thickness design charts included in this manual.
1.04 ADVANTAGES OF ASPHALT BASES
This manual includes design charts for asphalt concrete base courses, emulsified-
asphalt-treated base courses and untreated aggregate base courses.
Asphalt bases have many advantages over untreated base courses. A major one is thatNOT DRAWH
TO SCALE
ee "
SUBGRADE
(b)
Figure 1-1. Spread of wheel-load pressure through pavement structure.
LOAD,W
NOT DRAWN
TO SCALE
PAVEMENT
‘STRUCTURE
‘SUBGRADE
POE COMPRESSION “0-2 TENSION
Figure |-2. Pavement deflection results in tensile and
‘compressive stresses in pavement structure.asphalt-treated bases resist pavement stresses far better than untreated aggregate bases,
which have no tensile strength. Therefore, for the same loading conditions, asphalt.
treated bases can be constructed thinner than untreated aggregate bases.
Other important advantages of asphalt bases are:
+ With proper construction, asphalt bases will result in pavements of improved riding
quality.
+ Aggregates unsuitable for asphalt surface courses often may be used in asphalt base
courses.
+ Asphalt bases are excellent for stage construction (see Chapter VII).
+ Construction delays caused by inclement weather are minimized.
+ Asphalt bases may be used by haul traffic before the surface course is placed, thus
expediting construction.
1.05 ADVANTAGES OF FULL-DEPTH ASPHALT PAVEMENTS
AFull-Depth asphalt pavement is one in which asphalt mixtures are employed for all
courses above the subgrade or improved subgrade. In addition to the advantages named
above, Full-Depth pavements do not trap water that can cause base and subgrade
failures, as untreated aggregate layers frequently do. In fact, there is sometimes little
or no reduction in subgrade strength under Full-Depth pavements.
According to limited studies, the moisture in a clay subgrade may stabilize at a lower
water content under a Full-Depth asphalt pavement after construction; but under
Pavements constructed with untreated base layers the reverse frequently is the case.
However, building by the Full-Depth method does not call for ignoring subsurface
drainage. Proper drainage design is an essential feature of the overall pavement design.
Even when subsurface drains beneath the pavement are not called for, interceptor drains
frequently are required to divert ground water. Drainage of Asphalt Pavements Struc-
tures (MS-15), Asphalt Institute, provides an in-depth discussion of all aspects of
asphalt pavement drainage.
‘Some other Full-Depth pavement advantages are:
+ Time required for construction is reduced.
+ When placed in thick lifts—100 mm (4 in.) or more—construction seasons may be
extended.
+ There is less interference with utilities in a city street construction because Full-
Depth pavements are thinner than pavement structures with untreated aggregate
layers.
+ They are usually less affected by moisture.VU SSB eV SS Se SUS Se SS SS SS SSCHAPTER 0
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
2.01 INTRODUCTION
This chapter discusses the selection of appropriate factors for the structural design of
asphalt pavements. Information is presented on highway classifications, the selection of
material types as they relate to traffic, the use of stage construction, and economic com-
parisons between alternative designs. Methods for determining actual design factors and
their use are given in the appropriate chapters.
Usually, more is known about traffic, environment, and subgrade conditions for
heavier traveled highways than for lightly traveled roads. Additionally, stricter material
and construction standards and better performance for longer periods of time may be
required. The degree of complexity applied to the design for a given pavement, therefore,
can vary depending on the class of highway or street under consideration.
2.02 CLASSIFICATIONS OF HIGHWAYS AND STREETS
The United States Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classifies highways and
streets by a functional classification system that should be helpful in selecting
appropriate traffic factors and other required input variables. Functional classification is
the process by which streets and highways are organized into classes, or systems, accord-
ing to the character of service they provide. The major classifications are:
RURAL FUNCTIONAL SYSTEMS URBAN FUNCTIONAL SYSTEMS
Principal arterial system Principal arterial system
* Interstate * Interstate
+ Other principal arterials, + Other freeways & expressways
* Other principal arterials,
Minor arterial system Minor arterial street system
Collector system Collector street system
Major collectors
* Minor collectors
Local system Local street system
2.03 SELECTION OF DESIGN INPUT VARIABLES
Whenever possible, the subgrade properties, material properties, traffic values, en-
vironmental factors, and other variables used in design should be based on studies of
actual data. However, many times, particularly for minor roads and streets, the neces-
sary information is not available. For these cases, guidelines are offered at appropriate
places in the manual.Some recommended design values vary with the class of highway or design traffic
level. For heavier traffic a more conservative value is selected and a thicker pavement
will result, all other things being equal. For example, the recommended subgrade
strength design value is lower for heavy traffic than for light traffic. On the other hand,
mix design requirements for asphalt concrete are somewhat higher for heavy traffic than
for light traffic. Minimum thickness requirements for asphalt concrete are also func-
tions of traffic level and base type.
If litte is known about the subgrade soil and other material properties and, particular-
ly, if construction control is relaxed, the resulting pavement probably will vary in
quality and performance. The more variability there is in the constructed pavement the
more probability there is of early distress and higher maintenance costs. Also, the
choice of base type can affect pavement performance. Asphalt bases have advantages
over untreated aggregate bases (See Chapter I) and should be used where possible.
2.04 STAGE CONSTRUCTION
There are many types of traffic situations for which stage construction of the
pavement should be considered. One of these is streets in new housing developments.
Here, the asphalt base may be built to accommodate construction traffic and the asphalt
surface added as the final construction phase. Another example is roads on which future
traffic volume is expected to increase substantially, A valuable advantage of stage
construction is that deficiencies of subgrade or base course that show up under traffic
can be corrected prior to, or at the time of placement of the remaining courses. This
later paving ensures superior surface smoothness over a much longer period.
Design procedures for planned stage construction are contained in Chapter VII.
2.05 ECONOMIC COMPARISONS
Often, but not always, the selection of a base type, or the decision to use stage
construction, is based on an economic analysis of the available alternatives. The
preferred procedure for comparing alternative costs utilizes the concept of present
worth. In this procedure initial costs and future costs are reduced to their “present
value.” A method for making such an analysis is given in Chapter VIII. However, least
initial or total cost is not always the most logical basis for making such decisions. One
of the most compelling reasons for using stage construction, for example, is that future
traffic conditions may be unknown.
(
(
(CHAPTER I
DESIGN PRINCIPLES
3.01 BASIS FOR DESIGN
In this design procedure the pavement is regarded as a multi-layered elastic system.
‘The materials in each of the layers are characterized by a modulus of elasticity and a
Poisson's ratio. Traffic is expressed in terms of repetitions of an equivalent 80 KN
(18,000 Ib) single-axle load applied to the pavement on two sets of dual tires. For
purposes of analysis, the dual tire is approximated by two circular plates with
radius = 115 mm (4.52 in.) spaced 345 mm (13.57 in.) center to center, corresponding
to an 80 KN (18,000 Ib) axle load and a 483 kPa (70 psi) contact pressure. These standard
loading characteristics can be easily modified in the DAMA computer program.
‘The procedure can be used to design asphalt pavements composed of various com-
binations of asphalt concrete surface and base, emulsified asphalt surface (with surface
treatment) and base, and untreated aggregate base and subbase. Typical pavement
sections are shown schematically in Figure I1I-1
For pavements composed of Full-Depth asphalt layers the pavement is regarded as a
three-layer system. The pavement with the untreated aggregate is considered a four-
layer system,
The subgrade, the lowest layer, is assumed infinite in the vertically downward and
horizontal directions. The other layers, of finite thickness, are assumed infinite in extent
in the horizontal directions. Full continuity (“full friction”) is assumed at the interfaces
between each of the layers.
3.02 DESIGN CRITERIA
In the methodology adopted for this manual, loads on the surface of the pavement
produce two strains which, as noted in Figure III-1, are critical for design purposes.
They are (1) the horizontal tensile strain, &, on the underside of the lowest asphalt-
bound layer, either asphalt concrete or emulsified asphalt treated, and (2) the vertical
compressive strain, €., at the surface of the subgrade layer.
If the horizontal tensile strain, &, is excessive, cracking of the treated layer will
result. If the vertical compressive strain, ec, is excessive, permanent deformation will
result at the surface of the pavement structure from overloading the subgrade. Excessive
deformation in the treated layers is controlled by limits on material properties.
To develop the design criteria, horizontal tensile strains, e, and subgrade vertical
compressive strains, €., were calculated using the DAMA computer program. DAMA
uses the Chevron N-layer program for calculation of stresses and strains and will
consider a wide variety of material input parameters, loading conditions and environ-
mental conditions.FULL-DEPTH ASPHALT PAVEMENT DEEP-STRENGTH ASPHALT PAVEMENT
‘Asphalt Concrete Surtace|
BOR oan
OS See oenerl ay
Same Se Oe
ee
ACES 8"
LO Os
1 2s Granular Base 0
Sa
{a) Full-Depth ssphalt conorete and emulsified
‘asphalt bese pavements
(b) Pavements with arenular base
Figure Ill. Locations of strains considered in design procedure.
3.03 MATERIAL CHARACTERISTICS
All materials were characterized by a modulus of elasticity (also called dynamic
modulus, if asphalt mixtures; or resilient modulus, if untreated granular or soils
materials) and a Poisson’s ratio. Specific values were selected based on experience and
extensive study of actual test data.
Asphalt Concrete
The dynamic modulus of asphalt concrete mixtures is highly dependent upon pave-
ment temperature. In producing the design charts for this manual the temperature versus
‘modulus relationship for a typical high quality asphalt concrete was used. To simulate
the effects of temperature as it changes throughout the year, three typical distributions
of mean monthly air temperature, representing three typical climatic regions of North
America, were used. Appropriate dynamic modulus values were selected after an
extensive study of modulus-temperature relationships and asphalt properties.
(
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(Emulsified Asphalt Mixes
The emulsified asphalt mixes included in this manual are characterized by three mix
types, depending on the type of aggregate used:
Type | — Emulsified asphalt mixes made with processed, dense-graded aggregates.
Type II — Emulsified asphalt mixes made with semi-processed, crusher-run, pit-
run, or bank-run aggregates.
‘Type I — Emulsified asphalt mixes made with sands or silty sands.
Appropriate dynamic modulus values were selected for these three mixes after extensive
study of modulus data.
Dynamic modulus is a function of curing time, and a period of 6 months was used to
prepare the design charts. Curing lengths up to 24 months do not have a significant
influence on the thicknesses shown in the design charts.
Untreated Granular Materials
Resilient moduli of untreated granular materials vary with stress conditions in the
pavement. Values used in developing the design charts given in the Appendix vary from
fewer than 103 MPa (15,000 psi) to more than 345 MPa (50,000 psi).
3.04 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
In addition to the effects of monthly temperature changes throughout the year on the
dynamic modulus of asphalt concrete and emulsified asphalt mixtures, the design curves also
take into consideration the effects of temperature on the resilient modulus of the subgrade and
granular base materials. For the subgrade this was accomplished by using an increased
subgrade resilient modulus to represent the freezing period and a reduced subgrade resilient
modulus to represent the thaw period. This variation is shown schematically in Figure 11-2.
‘The same technique was used to represent environmental effects on granular base.
Month Thaw Started
Frozen Subgrade Modulus
"Normal Subgrade Modulus Time
Month Freeze
‘Started
Figure Ill-2. Subgrade modulus variations for the conditions
where freeze-thaw occurs.
Month Freeze Started
“Thaw (Reduced) Subgrade
Modulus3.05 DESIGN CHARTS
The DAMA computer program was used to determine thicknesses for the two strain
criteria described in Article 3.02 for the various conditions selected. Two thicknesses
were obtained for each condition, one for each critical strain value, and the larger of the
two used to prepare the design charts. For this reason many of the design curves repre-
sent shapes associated with two different criteria.
Minimum thicknesses have been shown for certain traffic levels. In cases where these
minimums were not directly the product of calculations using the DAMA computer pro-
gram they were selected based on experience, including the AASHO Road Test, other
studies, and previous editions of this manual.
In the development of this manual three sets of environmental conditions were
selected to represent the range of conditions to which the manual should apply:
‘Mean Annual Air Frost
‘Temperature Effects
27°C (48°F) Yes
18,5°C (60°F) Possibie
224°C (75°F) No
Mean Annual Air Temperature (MAAT) was used to characterize the environmental
conditions applicable to each region, and the characteristics of the materials were
selected accordingly.
10: CHAPTER IV
TRAFFIC ANALYSIS
4.01 INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this chapter is to provide methods for determining appropriate traffic
input factors for the pavement structural design methods presented in Chapter VI.
Of primary concern are the number and weights of axle loads expected to be applied
to the pavement during a given period of time. Typically they range from light (less
than 9 KN [2000 1b)) to heavy (in excess of legal limits). Research has shown that the
effect on pavement performance of an axle load of any mass can be represented by the
number of equivalent 80 KN (18,000 Ib) single-axle load applications (EAL). For
example, one application of an 89 KN (20,000 Ib) single-axle is equal to 1.5 applications
of an 80 KN (18,000 1b) single-axle. Conversely, it takes almost four applications of a
‘58 KN (13,000 Ib) singie-axle to equal one application of an 80 KN (18,000 Ib)
single-axle,
The traffic analysis procedure presented in this chapter incorporates equivalent 80
KN (18,000 Ib) single-axie loads. Therefore, knowledge is required of the number of
vehicles, or number and mass of axle loads, expected on the new highway facility. Most
states in the United States, in cooperation with the U.S. Federal Highway Administra-
tion (FHWA), collect truck count and weight data every one or two years. Truck weight
and vehicle count data are usually available from the local department of highways.
Many other countries also collect this type of information. All of the traffic analysis
Procedures presented in this chapter were derived from studies of truck count and
weight data or make extensive use of such data.
4.02 TRAFFIC VOLUME ESTIMATES
Estimating the initial and future traffic volumes and loading for structural design
requires substantial study and analysis. The information presented in this article can be
used for this purpose.
Analysis Period
For comparison of alternative designs it is necessary to select a period of time for
which the analysis of these alternatives is to be made. This is known as the Analysis
Period. The Analysis Period is discussed further in Chapter VIII—Economic Analysis.
Classification and Number of Trucks
The traffic analysis procedures used in this manual require that estimates be obtained
of the number of vehicles of different types, such as passenger cars, buses, single-unit
trucks, and multiple-unit trucks of different types expected to use the proposed facility.
In the United States, traffic classification counts are made periodically by state highway
and other agencies and this information should be available for use in pavement
structural design.
Mt‘When traffic count and classification data are not available, estimates can be obtained
from the data given in Table IV-1, “Distribution of Trucks on Different Classes of
‘Highways—United States.” This table was compiled from truck count data collected by the
states in cooperation with the U.S. Federal Highway Administration. The range of per-
centages in Table IV-1 indicates the probable range for the United States. Individual cases
may be either smaller or larger than the range.
Statistical data available for 1986 indicate that in the United States the volume of heavy
trucks (see Glossary for definition) on all classes of highways averages about 7 percent of
total traffic volume. Regionally, a range of 2 to more than 25 percent heavy trucks can be
expected. Ten percent heavy trucks is not uncommon on urban highways and the number
varies from less than 5 to more than 15 percent. During peak-hour traffic periods the percent
trucks usually will be less than the daily average. Peak-hour heavy truck traffic is about one-
half the daily average percentage of trucks on urban arterials and from one-half to two-
thirds on rural highways.
‘Use of local traffic data is recommended. However, local traffic is subject to variations
and care should be taken in collecting and using these data.
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AO SASSV1O LNSYAIIIG NO SHONHL FO NOLLNAIMISIG FAIS TEVLDesign Lane
For two-lane streets and highways the Design Lane may be either lane of the pavement
facility. For multi-lane streets and highways it is usually the outside lane. Under some
conditions more trucks may travel in one direction than in the other. In many locations
heavily-loaded trucks will travel in one direction and empty trucks in the other direction.
In the absence of specific data, Table IV-2 may be used for determining the relative pro-
portion of trucks to be expected for the Design Lane.
TABLE IV-2 PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL TRUCK TRAFFIC IN DESIGN LANE
Number of Percentage of
‘Teatfic Lanes Trucks in
(Two Directions) Design Lane
2 50
4 45 (35-48)"
Gor more 40 (25-48)*
“Probable range.
Design Period
A pavement may be designed to support the cumulative effects of traffic for any
period of time. The selected period, in years, for which the pavement is to be designed is
called the Design Period. At the end of the Design Period it can be expected that the
pavement may require some rehabilitation, usually including an asphalt overlay, to
restore high-level riding quality. The Design Period, however, should not be confused
either with pavement life or with the Analysis Period. Pavement life may be extended
indefinitely, through overlays or other rehabilitation measures, until the roadway
becomes obsolete through changes in grade, alignment, or other factors.
Highway Capacity
Consideration must be given to the number of traffic lanes required to accommodate
the traffic volume, both initially and throughout the Design Period.
Traffic Growth
‘Pavements must be designed to adequately serve traffic needs over a period of years.
Traffic growth—and in some cases, no growth or decline—must, therefore, be
anticipated when determining the structural requirements of the pavement. Traffic
history for comparable facilities and community and regional planning programs provide
a basis for the estimate. Overall growth does not appear to differ greatly between urban
and rural highways. However, since average growth percentages are based on total vehi-
cle miles traveled, it is advisable at times to determine, if possible, separate growth
percentages for trucks and passenger vehicles.
Normal growth in the United States is about 3 to 5 percent per year compounded.
However, new facilities or new developments can generate increases of greater
magnitude. Growth rates ranging from 4 to 9 percent have been suggested for U.S. rural
14
(
¢
(
¢
¢highways and from 8 to more than 10 percent for some Interstate highways. In applying
growth factors care should be taken that the capacity of the roadway is not exceeded.
ie) This could result in an unnecessarily conservative design.
Growth may be accounted for in design using the Growth Factors given in Table IV-3.
‘These factors multiplied by the first-year traffic estimate (EAL) will give the total number of
load repetitions expected during the Design Period.
TABLE IV-3 GROWTH FACTOR*
eS = Ft Gow aoe
, Period, No ]
) 3 30 3.06 312 3.15 318 321 3.25 331
6 fo) 8 fae | ae] in| ie
¢ | se | se] aeles | te] te] as | oe
) 6 6.0 631 6.63 6.80 6.98 715 734 7.72
S 7 | go | ce | tm | oh | SS | ak] ae | 22
| leeol Fame ec | Wess | lame | sel el eae
2 | we | tem | sear | ieee | Heer | oe | tem | BS
Ee & | ie | tame | tom | eo | foo | Se] Be] Re
& | io |e | oe |e | Be | 2S) Be | Ze
te | se [tee |e | ae | Re | bo | 22 | oz
} 7 17.0 20.01 23.70 25.84 28.21 30.84 33.75 40.55
0) @ | wo [an |e | ae | aa | em | SZ] 28
® | wo [me lao | ae | ae | He) Re] se
C) 2 20.0 24.30 | 29.78 33.06 (36.79 41.00 45.76 ‘57.28
& | go lan fe las | Se | O28 | 8% | 22
3 tasr | Soe | mat | feos | Stas | vase | sue
J EJ 49,99 73.65 90.32 111.43 138.24 172,32 271.02
“racer TE gra a pn. At Gow eee, Gn Faron Pe
4.03 ESTIMATING EAL
The recommended traffic analysis procedure determines the number of equivalent 80
Q KN (18,000 Ib) single-axle load applications (EAL) to be used in the pavement thickness
determination. These terms apply:
) + Truck Factor—The number of equivalent 80 kN (18,000 Ib) single-axle load
applications contributed by one passage of a vehicle.
+ Load Equivalency Factor—The number of equivalent 80 kN (18,000 Ib) single-
axle load applications contributed by one passage of an azle.
O + Number of vehicles—Total number of vehicles involved.
« 15EAL is calculated by multiplying the number of vehicles in each weight class by the
appropriate Truck Factor and obtaining the sum of the products:
EAL = E (number of vehicles in each weight class x Truck Factor)
The Truck Factors are determined from axle-weight distribution data using Load
Equivalency Factors (Table IV-4). An average Truck Factor is calculated by multiplying
the number of axles in each weight class by the appropriate Load Equivalency Factor and
dividing the sum of the products by the total number of vehicles involved:
E (number of axles x Load Equivalency Factor)
number of vehicles
Load Equivalency Factors may be obtained from Table IV-4. Figure IV-1(a) shows
examples of EAL for various axle weights, and Figure IV-1(b) illustrates the calculation
of a truck factor for a single truck using the load equivalency factors from Table IV-4.
The procedure for calculating Truck Factors is illustrated in Figure IV-2.
Truck Factors can be determined for individual trucks of any type or for combinations
of truck types (e.g., 2-axle single-units, 3-axle single-units, 5-axle tractor-trailer units).
Typical Truck Factors are given in Table IV-5 for a variety of U.S. truck and highway
classifications. These factors were calculated from data collected individually by U.S.
states and summarized by the U.S. Federal Highway Administration. The data represent
studies made at more than 600 locations in the United States during 1985. It is emphasized
that these data are averages fiom one study and that detailed information from local traffic
surveys should be used when available.
The characteristics of the current trucking fleet are gradually changing as old equip-
ment is replaced by more modern technology. Belted tires are being phased out for radial
tires which changes the actual contact pressures that are applied to the pavement.
Suspension systems are improving; the number of air bag suspensions is increasing and
the older, leaf-spring type is gradually diminishing in number. All of this shifting in the
trucking industry has generated much research effort to evaluate the overall impact of
these changes to pavement life and to possibly establish new equivalent axle load factors
in the future.
The largest average Truck Factor in Table IV-5 is 2.21. But, Truck Factors in excess of,
that have been reported for roads subjected to extremely high volumes of heavily loaded
trucks. Under certain circumstances, such as entrance roads to heavy commercial opera-
tions, mining operations, or logging roads, Truck Factors for loaded trucks may exceed
5.0. Limited data indicate that in some instances a stream of extremely heavily loaded
5-axle tractor semi-trailers can consist of as many as two-thirds exceeding 329 KN (74,000
Tb) gross weight. Various combinations of normal traffic mix plus certain percentages of
these heavily loaded vehicles can easily be used to determine average Truck Factors
exceeding 2.0 for design purposes.
Average Truck Factor =
16TABLE IV-4 LOAD EQUIVALENCY FACTORS*
Gross Axle Load
Load Equivalency Factors
nN is Single | Tandem | Tridem
Axles ‘Axles: Axles:
445 2,900 .o0002
89 2.000 o.00018
178 4000 o.00208 | o.00s
287 8.000 0.01043 | oor 0.0003
356 000 0.0343 0.003 001
445 19.000 0877 0.007 002
534 120000 0.188 0014 0.003
623 44000 0.360 0.027 0.008
m2 16000 0.823 047 oon
300 18,000 4.000 oor? oir
89.0 20,000 181 ore oe?
979 22000 218 0180 40
1088 241000 3.03, 0260 0.057
1158 26,000 4.03 0.364 0.080
1285 28,000 539 0495 0.109
1334 30,000 6s7 0.658 0745
1423 32000 888, 087 oxst
1512 34000 | 11.18 1.095, 0.248
4601 36000 | (1383 138 0313,
168.0 38000 | 17.20 170 0393
1780 op00 | 21.08 208 0487
187.0 42p00 | (25.64 28 0507
1957 44000 | 31.00 300 0723
2045, 46000 | 37.24 355 0.868
2135 sooo | 4450 4i7 1.038
224 5288 406 122
2313 563 143
2002 647 1.88
229.0 741 491
258.0 345, 220
267.0 959 251
2758 1084 285
2045 re 322
2535 1373 362
3025 15.28 495
ans 1739 482
3200 1936 5.03
3290 2132 557
3380 2368 815
3470 28.22 78
356.0 20 745
3647 220 a2
3738 353 89
3825 388 98
391.4 426 108
4003 68 ne
“From Appendtx 0 of AASHTO Guide for Design of Pavement Structures, American Assoclaton of State Highway and
Transporiaton Oiicals, Washington, D.C. 1988.
‘Note: KN converte to bare within 0.1 percent of shown.
1780KN 100KN 44kN
18,000-Ib 22,400-Ib 10,000-1b
(a) EAL
Gross Weight
94 KN
67 KN 27 KN
15,000 Lbs. + 6,000 Lbs. = [21.000 Lba._|
0.48 0.01 ‘Track Factor
0.49
Gross Weight
151 kN 151 KN 54EN S56 KN
34,000Lbs. + +~—- $4,000 Lbs.+12,000 Lbs. = |_80,000 Lbs.
1.10 1.10 0.19 ‘Truck Factor
2.39
®)
Figure IV-1. Load Equivalency Factors
18No.of toad
Genet ‘Axles Per Equivaleney e
‘1000 Factor
ky roan OBR | ok aN Cok
w @ @ “
Single Ale
<13.38 (3) eos 0.0002 on
13.35- 31.18 (37) 557 0.008 33
31.15 356 (73) 140 0.028 39
356 - 534 (aa) 493 0.087 42.9
534-712 9216) 184 0.360 554
71.2 - 800 16-18) 6 oait 608
80.0 - 890 (18-20) 3 1.25 412
82.0 - 97.8 (20-22) 6 ves 92
97.8 -1068 (22.24) 2 260 52
1088-1155 (24-28) 1 3.56 36
1186-1335 (28-30) 1 be 5a
‘Tandem Axles
<287 (<6) 2 0.010 02
26.7 - 534 (6-12 227 0.010 23
58.4 - 800 (12-18) tea 0.037 60
80.0 “1088 ce-28) 108 0.150 162
106.8 133.5 (24-30) 140 0.429 60.1
1335 -1423 (30-32) 58 0757 43.9
1423 151.2 82-34) 2B 097 243
181.2 ~1600 (34-38) 6 429 74
160.0 169.0 5-38) 3 154 46
168.0 “1780 (3-40) 1 189 19
1780 -187.0 (40-42) 1 220 23
187.0 “198.7 (42-48) 1 275 28
195.7 -204.5 (4e-46) 1 327 33
208.5 -272.4 (46-50) 1 4a7 42
>2226 eo) + 52 82
(Use 226.8 (51) ae
EEAL=#157
Average Truck Factor=EAL/Vehicle=415.7/1000=0.42
“Most U.S. truck weight and truck count data are reported in terms of 1000 vehicle units. This conven
‘tion is retained here for convenience in using state Truck Weight Study reports for traffic analysis.
Figure 1V-2. Example of U.S. axle-load distribution (based on truck count
and weight data for typical U.S. Interstate rural highways).
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204.04 DETERMINING DESIGN EAL
These steps outline the procedure for determining Design EAL: NY pais
(Q) Determine the average number of each type of vehicle expected on the Design Lane
during the first year of traffic.
(2) Determine, from axle-weight data, or select from Table IV-5, a Truck Factor for
each vehicle type found in step (1).
3) Select, from Table IV-3, a single Growth Factor for all vehicles, or separate
Growth Factors for each vehicle type, as appropriate for the design period.
(@ Multiply the number of vehicles of each type times the Truck Factor and the
Growth Factor (or Factors) determined in steps (2) and (3).
(5) Sum the values determined to obtain Design EAL.
Figure IV-3 is an example of a worksheet showing the calculation of Design EAL for a
four-lane rural highway following the procedure outlined here.
Location: Four-Lane Interstate Fural Highway Design Period: 20 Years
EAL
Vehicle Truck a
ve rea Factor [1x2x3]
2 3 4
Single-Unit Trucks
2Axle, 4-Tie 84,700 X 0,003 x 29.8 = 7,600
2Axle, 6-Tite 15,800 X 0.21 x 208 98,900
3Axle oF More 4,000 X Ot x 29.8 72,700
All Singles 104,500 Subtotal 179,200
‘Tractor Semi-Trailers and Combinations
éeAxle oF Less 9.800 x 0.62 x 228 = = 181,100
Beale 80,800 X 1.09 x 298 = = 2,624'500
6-Axle of More 7,000 X 4.23 x 298 = 256,600
All Tractors, Ete. 92,600 Subtotal 3,082,200
All Trucks. 197,100 Design EAL= Total 3,241,400
“Based on AADT = 5,000 during frst year of traffic, 45 percent in the Design Lane, 24 percent trucks.
Figure IV.3. Example worksheet for traffic analysis.
Another factor that could be considered in determining the Design EAL is the detrimen-
tal effect of higher tire contact pressures. If actual truck tire measurements indicate that
inflation pressures are significantly above the standard loading condition (70 psi), then
the adjustment factors from Figure IV-4 may be used to modify the design traffic for this
additional stress. This adjustment is made by multiplying the initial design EAL by the
EAL Adjustment Factor (from the appropriate asphalt concrete thickness line) for each
individual vehicle type or for the average truck condition. Typically, truck tire contact
pressures equal about 90 percent of the tire inflation pressure.
214.05 PARKWAYS AND SHOULDERS
Highways and streets that carry large volumes of automobile traffic but only a few
trucks require special attention; so do shoulders. The following guidelines are offered for
determining Design EAL for these facilities.
Parkways, Residential Streets and Parking Lots
Most of these facilities have relatively high volumes (almost 100 percent) of
automobile traffic and relatively few trucks. A pavement design using the Load
Equivalency Factors for light axle loads given in Table IV-4 can result in a pavement
that is too thin to withstand occasional heavy traffic, such as snowplows, maintenance
trucks, moving vans, ready-mixed concrete trucks, buses, and garbage trucks. It is
recommended, therefore, that a realistic estimate of future truck traffic on residential
streets and parking lots be attempted. Failing this, minimum thickness recommenda-
tions given in Chapter VI—STRUCTURAL DESIGN PROCEDURE should be
maintained.
Shoulders
Asphalt shoulders are constructed to increase safety and to accommodate vehicle
emergency parking. Shoulders must withstand encroachment of moving vehicles and
often must serve as temporary driving lanes during construction or maintenance ac-
tivities. At times shoulders are used by slow-moving vehicles as travel lanes. For these
reasons, and when it is possible to determine future traffic usage, it is recommended
that shoulders be designed using the principles and procedures adopted for the main
travel lanes, For minimum protection against the damaging effects of occasional heavy
vehicles it is recommended that the Design EAL for shoulders be at least 2 percent of
the Design EAL for the Design Lane.
Tire Contact Pressure (kPa)
483 650. 1034
Contact Pressure = seme
10. x Inflation Pressure
‘omon) | Figure 1V-4. EAL Adjustment Factor
tor Tire Pressures."
EAL Adjustment Factor
Dual-Tired Axles zsh
70 700 180
“Tre Contact Pressure (esi)
+ HF, Southgate and A. C. Deen, “Effects of Load Distribution and Axle and Tire Configurations on Pavement
Fatigue,” UKTRP-85-13, May 1985, Kentucky Transportation Research Program, University of Kentucky
22CHAPTER V
MATERIALS EVALUATION
5.01 GENERAL
For any given traffic, pavement design involves three steps: (1) selection of materials
to be used for construction, (2) thickness requirements for each material selected for
use, and (3) construction requirements, including such factors as mix design and
compaction. A key factor in each of the three steps is the material evaluation of the
various pavement elements: asphalt concrete, emulsified asphalt mixes, aggregate for
base and subbase, and subgrade materials.
In Chapter III the design principles used in developing this manual were briefly
described. It was stated that materials are characterized by elastic constants appropriate
for each material selected for use in the structural section and for the subgrade. In the
preparation of this manual, the Asphalt Institute has researched expected material
Properties for the structural elements; i.e., asphalt concrete, emulsified asphalt mixes,
and aggregates for base and subbase. The design charts contained in the Appendix were
prepared using appropriate values for the elastic constants; hence, it will not be
necessary for the user to determine these constants. The DAMA computer program may
be used to design for any set of appropriate design constants.
The definitive material property of the subgrade material is the resilient modulus
(M,). The preferred procedure for determining M, is described in the Asphalt Institute
publication, Soils Manual (MS-10). It is recognized, however, that many agencies do
not have the equipment for performing the resilient modulus test. Therefore, suitable
factors have been established to determine M, from the standard CBR and R-value tests.
The results are approximate, however, and the acquisition of resilient modulus test
equipment is recommended.
Agencies that plan to measure the resilient modulus of subgrade materials are
cautioned that the modulus of most soils depends on the magnitude of stress under the
design load. The thicknesses in the design charts in the Appendix, in turn, depend on
specific values of the subgrade modulus. Thus, care should be taken that the ap-
proximate confining pressure and deviator stress used in the resilient modulus test most
nearly match the anticipated in-place stresses. The test method recommends a confining
pressure and a deviator stress that are reasonable for most testing.
A. Subgrade Soils
5.02 DEFINITION
Subgrade is defined as the soil prepared and compacted to support a structure or a
pavement system. It is the foundation for the pavement structure. Subgrade soil or
material sometimes is called “basement” or “foundation soil.”
235.03 IMPROVED SUBGRADE
An improved subgrade is any course or courses of improved material between the
native subgrade soil and the pavement structure. It may be a treated in-place material, or
an imported material.
Improved subgrade normally is not required in the design and construction of a Full-
Depth asphalt pavement structure. It should be considered only when a subgrade that
will not support construction equipment is encountered. In such cases it is used as a
working platform for construction of the pavement courses and does not affect the
design thickness of the pavement structure. A study at the construction site is usually
required to establish the best solution for such problems.
5.04 EVALUATION METHODS
The design charts in this manual call for a subgrade resilient modulus, which can be
determined from a laboratory test in accordance with procedures described in the Asphalt
Institute’s Soils Manual (MS-10).
In order to facilitate the use of the design charts with other widely used tests, correla-
tions have been established with the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and the Resistance
(R) value. Procedures for performing CBR and R-value tests are detailed in MS-10 and in
the following ASTM/AASHTO test method:
() Bearing Ratio of Laboratory-Compacted Soils - ASTM Method D 1883
(AASHTO Method T 193) [compact samples according to ASTM Method D
1557 (AASHTO Method T 180), Method B or Dj.
@) Resistance R-Value - ASTM Method D 2844 (AASHTO Method T 190),
The resilient modulus may be approximated from the CBR test values according to the
relationship
M, (MPa)
M, (esi)
The resilient modulus may be approximated from the R-value test results according to
the relationship
M, (MPa) = 8.0 + 3.8 (R-value) or
M, (psi) = 1155 + 555 (R-value).
CBR and R-value correlations are considered applicable to materials classified as
CL, CH, ML, SC, SM, and SP (Unified Soil Classification, ASTM D 2487), A-7, A-6,
A-5, A-4, and finer A-2 soils (AASHTO Designation M145), or for materials that are
estimated to have a resilient modulus of 207 MPa (30,000 psi) or less. These correla-
tions are not applicable to granular, untreated base or subbase materials. Direct
laboratory testing is required to obtain higher subgrade resilient modulus values.
Other agencies have developed correlations that relate CBR or R-value to dynamic
modulus. Many of these will produce lower Mr values, and, consequently greater thicknesses,
than those given above. The design charts in this manual assume that relationships similar to
those recommended above will be used, and care should be taken that the use of other
relationships does not produce unnecessarily large design thicknesses.
5.05 SAMPLING AND TESTING
A sampling and testing plan must be prepared as a preliminary step to the design pro-
cess. General guidelines for selecting sampling locations along a proposed project are
4described in Appendix B of the Asphalt Institute's Soils Manual (MS-10). MS-10 also
provides guidelines for developing soil profiles and for classifying subgrade soils.
Table V-1 offers guidelines for sample preparation and testing of subgrade soils.
TABLE V-1_ SUBGRADE SOILS TESTS AND SAMPLE SIZES
‘Common Name us aeeeete: Approximate Pur Te
of Test se ‘Size of Sample. sleebasideet
AasuTo | AST
Tefnd the water conten =the
Lind Lint |Caniteaion | a9 | pasta foun non tei od
Pare rts
| ofind to water conten the
Plastic Limit | Classification | T 90 | pasta | boundary between the plastic and
25 kg | semisolid states ofa sil
cm
oad he ng of tr cores
Matic Inde | Ceifeaton | 90 |DeS18 ofr og of te cor
rachael | To determine te partes dt
Analysis een | ee oe bution of a soil.
Te denice th cium ety a
Moisture
. 111g | ageencompuctne cor nde
Cormaction | Deny | TSO 01887 | Gt) |mwrcomem at which en be
Rataionhio
Seed
eater iq | Termine ons-rng cane
con | twcknan | tr92 fonaee | 782, [iy: Merennsaeusedto rahe
Deion ‘sorte reson module
Bator aug | %etemie o-ring capac
enue | Thstres | 190 |oasts| (242, [iy toreuteore sed fete
Oatn ‘porainan elon oda
iain | Belor | pea nnte | 114g | To deermine the restion modus of
ties, | Thdnes | eetal tio | asia) | benim so
AASHTO = American Association of State Highway Transportation and Officials.
ASTM = American Society for Testing and Materials
“Seo aso the Asphalt Insta’ Soll Manual (MS-10).
A certain amount of judgment is required to develop a test schedule to fit the local
situation. These general guidelines may help:
(1) Test all subgrade materials that are expected to be within 0.6 m (2 ft) of the
planned subgrade elevation. In fill areas it is necessary to determine first the
expected source of the fill material. The test should, as nearly as possible,
represent the condition of the subgrade that is likely to control the design.
25(2) If the soil profile indicates that there is a nonsystematic variation in subgrade
soil type along the alignment, i.e., one or more major soil types are randomly
present, a random sampling plan should be used within the boundary of each
soil type. If the soil profile indicates that there is a systematic variation in soil
type, the alignment can be subdivided by soil type for testing. Schedule suffi-
cient testing to prepare separate pavement designs for each soil type. In these
situations it is desirable to establish a minimum length for which separate
designs are considered feasible. In either case, if the various soil type areas are
not large enough to justify separate pavement designs, a single design should be
made based on the worst soil type.
(3) Also schedule a sufficient number of tests for a statistical selection of the design
subgrade strength value (see Article 5.06). Six to eight tests are recommended for
cach soil type. More than nine tests are unnecessary.
@ Ifa sample from a test location has a value so low that it indicates an extremely
weak area then additional samples should be obtained and tested to determine
the boundaries of that area. Such areas may require increases in thickness, or
replacement with improved subgrade material, to provide uniform support for
the entire length of the section. Test values representing these locations should
be omitted from the Design Subgrade Resilient Modulus calculations.
5.06 SELECTION OF DESIGN SUBGRADE RESILIENT MODULUS
Individual subgrade test values (six to eight tests) are used to find a Design Subgrade
Resilient Modulus (M;). For any given set of test values, Mr should be selected as the
traffic varies. If 2 high volume of traffic is anticipated, Mr is adjusted to a lower value
than if a low volume is expected. This is done to ensure a more conservative design for
a larger traffic volume.
The design subgrade resilient modulus is defined as the subgrade resilient modulus
value that is less than 60, 75, or 87.5 percent of all test values in the section. These
percentages are related to traffic levels as shown in Table V-2.
TABLE V2 SUBGRADE DESIGN LIMITS
es Design Subgrade
Level Value, Percent
10% or less 0
Between 10* & 10° 7
10° or more 875
The graphical procedure for determining the Design Subgrade Resilient Modulus,
Mr, is as follows:
(J) Select the Design Traffic EAL according to the procedure outlined in Chapter
Iv.
26) Test six to eight samples of subgrade as outlined in Articles 5.04 and 5.05. Convert
CBR or R-value test data to subgrade resilient modulus value as indicated,
‘ @) Arrange all test values in descending numerical order.
@ For each change in test value, beginning with the lowest value, compute the
percentage of the total number of values that are equal to,or greater than the'test
value.
(5) Plot the results on cross-section paper.
(© Draw a smooth, best-fit curve through the plotted points. (Note: if the test data are
well-distributed the curve should be S-shaped and the 50th percentile value should fall
close to the average of the data.)
(7) Read from the curve the subgrade strength value at the appropriate percentile value
shown in Table V-2. This is the design subgrade strength value.
) Example - Determine Design Subgrade Resilient Modulus for the given conditions.
(2) Design Traffic EAL = 10*, 10° and 10°,
@) The results of seven tests produced the following subgrade resilient modulus test
values: 44.8, 58.6, 67.6, 68.3, 68.3, 80.0, 106.9 MPa (6,500; 8,500; 9,800; 9,900;
9,900; 11,600; 15,500 psi).
G) Percentage values have been calculated as follows:
Test Values ‘Number Equal to Percent Equal to
MPa psi ‘or Greater Than, or Greater Than
106.9 15,500 1 G10 = 14
80.0 11,600 2 2/7) 100 = 29
8.3 9,900
8.3 9,900 4 4/7) 100 = 57
67.6 9,800 3 G/) 10 = 71
58.6 8,500 6 6/7) 100 = 86
448 6,500 7 (7/7) 100 = 100
(@ Plot test values vs percent equal to or greater than:
My, MPa
100 42-60 ‘a0 90120
Percent Equal To or Greater Than(8) From the graph, determine the design subgrade Mr values for the different
design EAL values.
Design Subgrade M_
EAL Percentile Value MPa ‘Psi
10° 0 60 10,000
108 15 64.1 9,300
108 87.5 56.9 8,250
5.07 SUBGRADE COMPACTION REQUIREMENTS
‘Compaction tests should be made in the laboratory on each soil type to be used in con-
struction to determine the practical maximum density that may be obtained. For
subgrade materials these laboratory compacted densities should be determined by means
of ASTM Method 1557 (AASHTO Method of Test T 180). These compaction criteria are
recommended for subgrades and improved subgrades in the construction of asphalt
pavement structures:
(1) Cohesive Subgrades
Minimum 95 percent of ASTM Method 1557 (AASHTO Method of Test T 180),
‘Method D density for the top 300 mm (12 in.) and minimum 90 percent for all fill
areas below the top 300 mm (12 in.). The water content for compaction of cohesive
soils should be selected to provide the highest remolded strength consistent with
expansion considerations. Generally, non-expansive cohesive soils should be
compacted one or two percentage points on the dry side of laboratory optimum
moisture content. Known expansive soils should be compacted one or two per-
centage points on the wetside of laboratory optimum moisture content to minimize
expansion. In some cases it may be necessary to reduce percent compaction
requirements to prevent excessive expansion.
(2) Cohesionless Subgrades
Minimum 100 percent of ASTM Method 1557 (AASHTO Method of Test T 180),
Method D, density for the top 300 mm (12 in,) and minimum 95 percent below
this for all fill areas. Clean sands and gravels which have a Plasticity Index of 6
or less and which do not stick together when dry generally are classified as
cohesionless soils. They may bulk when wet and densify under vibratory loads.
Compaction requirements should be sufficiently high to insure that the subgrade
resilient modulus, Mr, will not be lower than that used for design. If reduced compaction
requirements are specified then the design subgrade Mr should be adjusted accordingly.
Additional information on subgrade compaction is contained in the Asphalt Institute
publication, Asphalt Paving Manual (MS-8).
B. Asphalt Concrete Surface and Base Mixtures
5.08 MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ASPHALT CONCRETE
The asphalt concrete properties used in this manual are based on extensive studies of
dynamic modulus-temperature relationships for dense-graded asphalt concrete. Hence, it
28is not necessary to test the asphalt concrete in order to use the design charts if these
requirements are satisfied:
(2) The aggregate gradation must comply with the requirements for asphalt concrete
Contained in Model Construction Specifications for Asphalt Concrete and Other
Plant-Mix Types (SS-1), Asphalt Institute, when tested in accordance with proce-
dures contained in Mix Design Methods for Asphalt Concrete and Other Hot-Mix
Types (MS-2), Asphalt Institute.
(2) The mixture of asphalt binder and aggregate must be designed to meet the
criteria suggested in SS-1, and,
(3) The asphalt concrete must be compacted to the density requirements stipulated
in Article 5.09.
The design charts refer to two asphalt concrete layers; ive., surface and base. It is
necessary that both layers meet the three requirements described above. The mineral
aggregate may consist of crushed or uncrushed materials, or some combination of the
two; however, the coarse aggregate in the surface layer should have at least 50 percent
crushed pieces.
5.09 ASPHALT CONCRETE COMPACTION CRITERIA
In order to establish a more realistic target density, samples of the actual plant mixture
should be compacted on the job site or in the field laboratory. The Asphalt Institute
recommends this procedure: Divide the mixture production into lots, each lot equal to the
mix produced during one day {not to exceed 2700 tonnes (3,000 tons)]. Determine the
target density for each lot by measuring the average density of laboratory-prepared
specimens representing randomly chosen sub-samples taken from trucks delivering mix-
ture to the job site.
Compacted pavement density should be determined from nuclear density testing or
core samples. The testing or core sampling should be done on pavement sections built
with the same truckloads of mix from which the target density sub-samples were taken. It
is recommended that five field density determinations be made in each lot of the com-
acted base and surface. The average of these five density determinations should be (1) equal
to or greater than 96 percent of the average density of the laboratory-prepared specimens,
and no individual determination should be lower than 94 percent or (2) equal to or greater
than 92 percent of the theoretical maximum specific gravity and no individual determination
should be lower than 90 percent.
Refer to "Acceptance Requirements” in Specification PM-1, Model Construction
Specifications for Asphalt Concrete and Other Plant-Mix Types (SS-1), Asphalt
Institute, for directions on determining target density and relative density.
C. Emulsified Asphalt Base Mixtures
5.10 MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EMULSIFIED ASPHALT MIXES
The emulsified asphalt mixes used as base materials in this manual are characterized
by three mix types:
‘Type — Emulsified asphalt mixes made with processed, dense-graded aggregates.
Type I — Emulsified asphalt mixes made with semi-processed, crusher-run, pit-
run, or bank-run aggregates.
Type III — Emulsified asphalt mixes made with sands or silty sands.
29‘The aggregates and emulsified asphalts used in these mix types must meet the
requirements set forth in Chapter VII. A Basic Asphalt Emulsion Manual (MS-19),
Asphalt Institute. Design of the emulsified asphalt mixes should be accomplished by
using the procedures and criteria included in MS-19. Materials properties typical of these
three mix types were used to develop the thickness design curves for the emulsified
asphalt pavement sections included in this manual.
Plant mixing is required for the high-quality, dense-graded Type I emulsified asphalt
mixes in order to obtain the controls necessary for uniform blending of aggregate,
‘emulsified asphalt and, in some cases, water during the mixing process. Plant or in-place
mixing may be used to produce the Type II or Type III emulsified asphalt mixes.
5.11 COMPACTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EMULSIFIED ASPHALT MIXES
‘There is no standard procedure for determining the field density of emulsified asphalt
mixtures. The Asphalt Institute recommends that this procedure be used until a standard
procedure is adopted:
Divide emulsified asphalt mixture production into lots, each lot equal to the mix pro-
duced during one day. Determine the target density for each lot by measuring the average
density of six laboratory-prepared specimens representing two randomly chosen sub-
samples taken from trucks delivering mixture to the job site. Recommended laboratory
compaction procedures are given in A Basic Asphalt Emulsion Manual (MS-19), Asphalt
Institute. The target density shouldbe reported as dry density.
Determine the compacted density in the field from five randomly located positions in
each lot of the compacted mixture. The density of freshly compacted material can be
determined using a properly calibrated nuclear density device or other procedure. Density
determinations made after a period of curing may be determined on samples obtained
from the compacted material by a suitable core-drilling technique. All compacted densi-
ties should be converted to dry density. It is recommended that the average of the five
field density determinations made in each lot be equal to or greater than 95 percent of the
average density of the six laboratory-prepared specimens, and that no individual deter-
minations be lower than 92 percent.
‘Additional information on compacting emulsified asphalt mixtures is contained in A
Basic Asphalt Emulsion Manual (MS-19), Asphalt Institute.
D. Untreated Aggregate Base and Subbase
5.12 MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR UNTREATED BASE AND SUBBASE
‘When untreated aggregate base and subbase are incorporated into the design section, it
is recommended that they comply with “Graded Aggregate Material for Bases or Sub-
bases for Highways and Airports,” ASTM Specification D 2940, except that the require-
ments given in Table V-3 should apply where appropriate.
5.13 COMPACTION REQUIREMENTS FOR UNTREATED AGGREGATE BASE
AND SUBBASE
Untreated aggregate base and subbases should be compacted at optimum moisture
content, plus or minus 1.5 percentage points, to achieve a minimum density of 100 per-
cent of maximum laboratory density. ASTM Method of Test D 1557, Method D
(AASHTO Method of Test T 180, Method D) should be used for determining laboratory
density.
30TABLE V3 UNTREATED AGGREGATE BASE AND SUBBASE QUALITY
) REQUIREMENTS
2 ‘Test Requirements
Test
Subbase Base
7 CBR, minimum* 20 80
) oF
Revalue, minimum* 55 B
Liquid Limit, maximum 25 6
oO Plasticity Index, maximum, or 6 NP
: ‘Sand Equivalent, minimum 25 38
7 Passing No, 200 sieve, maximurn 2 7
“The formulae in Article 6.04 relating CBR and R-value to subgrade sol resillont modulus do not apply to
) untreated aggregate base and subbase.
) ‘The compaction load and contact pressure should be as high as the material being com-
: pacted will support without displacing the subbase or base course or damaging the
subgrade beneath. As stronger layers are placed, the load and contact pressure may be in-
creased to obtain final compaction density. Three field density tests should be made on
) ‘each 2700 tonnes (3000 tons) of materials.
) 31CHAPTER VI
STRUCTURAL DESIGN PROCEDURE
6.01 INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents procedures for determining the thickness of pavement struc-
tures consisting of asphalt concrete surface, emulsified asphalt surface (with surface
treatment), asphalt concrete base, emulsified asphalt base, and untreated aggregate base
or subbase.
As outlined in Chapter IIl—Design Principles, the resulting thicknesses satisfy two
different strain criteria, the vertical compressive strain at the surface of the subgrade,
and horizontal tensile strain on the underside of the lowest asphalt-bound layer. Design
thicknesses shown in Charts A-1 through A-36, Appendix (blue pages for SI [metric]
units; yellow pages for U.S. customary units), represent the greater of two thicknesses
associated with the criteria. The Asphalt Institute’s HWY computer program provides
a computerized solution to the thickness design procedures outlined here.
Traffic levels from EAL = 5x 10° to EAL in excess of 10” are included in the design
charts, Pavements designed for EAL greater than those on the charts represent special
cases and designs should be made (or checked) with the DAMA computer program.
Designs for EAL greater than 3 x 10° should be considered candidates for future
leveling overlays or stage construction.
6.02 DESIGN PROCEDURE
The steps in the design procedure are illustrated schematically by the flow diagram
shown in Figure VI-1. These steps are:
(2) Select or determine input data.
@) traffic value, EAL,
(b) subgrade resilient modulus, M;,
(© surface and base types.
(@) Determine design thicknesses for the specific conditions described by the input
data.
(3) Prepare stage construction design, if appropriate.
(@) Make an economic analysis of the various solutions arrived at for the design
problem.
(6) Select final design.
Steps 1 through 3 have been automated in the HWY computer program, while the
economic analysis (step 4) can be performed using the LCCOST computer program.
Both are available from the Asphalt Institute.
6.03 DESIGN TRAFFIC, SUBGRADE, AND MATERIALS INPUT VALUES
Input common to the design procedures for three pavement types include:
33