Experimental program for the alf trial no 1 at Somersby - NSW

The first trial with the alf commenced on the Sydney Newcastle freeway at Somersby in July 1984. The main purpose of this trial is to test the accelerated loading facility (alf) on the road, and to assess the performance and structural behaviour of the tested pavement configuration. Three tests are anticipated, with 80, 60 and 50 kn load subsequently. The pavements response to trafficking will be measured in terms of cracking, deflection, and deformation. The testing program embraces in situ and laboratory material tests before and after the loading trial. The program is, of necessity a compromise between ideal research and what is practical in the circumstances. This paper outlines the objectives, the experiment sequences and conditions of the Somersby trial, attempting at the same time to give background information on the instrumentation and testing philosophy (a).