Considerações sobre a determinação do fator de veículo no cálculo do número N

Abstract

This paper presents important aspects related to the determination of the Vehicle Factor, a basic parameter in the calculation of the Total Equivalent Operations. Common inconsistencies in the determination of this factor, result of the incorrect calculation of the Axle Factor due to ambiguity in the recommendations, are discussed. This has lead to different values of the Total Equivalent Operations even when considering the same traffic data. A case study is presented to facilitate the discussion. Even though the subject has been extensively discussed in the pavement community, the study represents a relevant contribution in the sense that it clarifies the calculation of important parameters used in pavement design and management. It is expected that the study will lead to a more clear methodology for the calculation of the discussed factors.