Local calibration of flexible pavement performance models in Michigan

The performance prediction models in the Pavement-ME are nationally calibrated using in-service pavement material properties, pavement structure, climate and truck loading conditions, and performance data obtained from the Long Term Pavement Performance program. Generally, the nationally calibrated models may not be accurate if the inputs and performance data used to calibrate do not represent a state’s local conditions and practices. Therefore, each state highway agency (SHA) should evaluate the nationally calibrated performance models to determine the adequacy of predicted field performance before implementing the new M-E design procedure. If the predictions are not satisfactory, local calibration of the Pavement-ME performance models is recommended to improve the performance prediction capabilities reflecting the unique field conditions and design practices. The commonly used calibration technique such as split sampling does not necessarily provide adequate results, especially with small sample sizes. ...