Clarifying Load Ratings for Timber Bridges Helps Local Road Agencies

Posted: Nov 12, 2024

Researchers at the University of Colorado Denver studied timber bridges as well as computer models to determine how two common load rating methods are related. They developed a conversion factor for converting one rating to another. Providing a clearer understanding of rating protocols for timber bridges allows transportation agencies to better manage bridges, set appropriate weight limits, and efficiently allocate funds for maintenance and traffic control.

Yail "Jimmy" Kim, Ph.D.
University of Colorado Denver

Transition of Allowable Stress Rating to Load and Resistance Factor Rating for Timber Bridges
MPC-24-546