Development of Live Load Model Based on Weigh-in-Motion Data for Piers and Wharves at Port Terminals

The knowledge of live load spectra is needed for the development of rational design criteria for piers and wharves at port terminals. Unbiased truck axle weights and configurations are collected using Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) sensors installed at various access points and locations within the Port Terminal. Records of trucks and other types of heavy vehicles are processed to determine statistical distributions of gross vehicle weights, axle loads, and other parameters. This paper presents a methodology for developing a live load model for the design of piers and wharves at port terminal using “heavy” representative (i.e., upper tail) data. The recorded trucks are run through influence lines to calculate load effects. The obtained load spectra are compared with those from truck surveys and permit records in the vicinity of port areas. The approach includes calibration of live load factors and performing reliability-based analysis for predicting future live load levels for pier design.