how to calculate axle load

Axle load is a term used to describe the weight supported by each axle of a vehicle. This is an important measurement for various reasons. For example, overloaded axles can cause significant damage to roads and bridges, leading to higher maintenance costs and increasing the risk of accidents. Accurate calculation of axle load is therefore very important for safety reasons. In this article, we will discuss the process of calculating axle load.

Understanding Axle Load

Before we delve into the process of calculating axle load, it is important to understand what it means. Axle load refers to the amount of weight that every axle of a vehicle bears. This weight is calculated by summing up the weight of the cargo, passengers and the vehicle. Each vehicle has a specified maximum weight that it can carry, based on its size, model, and make. This maximum weight varies from one jurisdiction to another and is subject to change.

Calculating Axle Load

To calculate axle load, the weight of the vehicle and the weight of the load it carries must be measured. This can be done using a weighbridge, which is a specialized scale designed to determine the weight of vehicles and their contents. The weighbridge is a platform that is large enough to accommodate the entire vehicle and its contents. When the weight of the entire vehicle is taken, it can then be subtracted from the weight of the vehicle without the cargo to get the weight of the cargo loaded onto the vehicle.Next, the total weight is divided by the number of axles on the vehicle to obtain the axle load. For example, if a truck weighs 20,000 pounds with a payload of 16,000 pounds, with two axles, then the weight of each axle would be 18,000 pounds. This is because the sum of both axles is 36,000, which is the total weight of the vehicle with the load. Dividing this number by the number of axles on the truck gives us the axle load.

Factors Affecting Axle Load

Several factors can affect the axle load of a vehicle. First, the type of cargo transported and its weight will affect the total weight of the vehicle. Second, the weight of any passengers in the vehicle will also contribute to the total weight. Third, the number and spacing of axles will also influence the final calculation. Furthermore, environmental conditions, such as road quality, weather and gradient can also affect the axle load of a vehicle.

Conclusion

Axle load is an important metric that is essential for ensuring safety on the road. Accurate measurement of axle load is therefore important to determine the maximum load that a vehicle can carry. By understanding how to calculate axle load, individuals and businesses can ensure that their vehicles are not overloaded, leading to increased safety on the roads and reduced maintenance costs on road and bridge infrastructure.