29.2. Wheel load stresses - Westergaard’s stress equation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is Westergaard's stress equation used for?

   Hint

   Think about its role in pavement design.

2. 2.

   What does the variable 'P' represent in the stress equations?

   Hint

   Consider what loads impact the pavement.

3. 3.

   What does σ_i denote in Westergaard’s equations?

   • Stress at Corner
   • Stress at Edge
   • Stress at Interior

   Hint

   Think about where interior stresses are most relevant.

4. 4.

   True or False: The edge stress equation includes a constant term.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on the structure of the equations.

5. 5.

   Calculate the maximum interior stress for a slab of 20 cm thickness with a 3000 kg wheel load.

   Hint

   Focus on substituting values carefully in the equation.

6. 6.

   Discuss how varying the slab thickness impacts all types of stresses in the pavement.

   Hint

   Think about physical behavior under loads.