METHODOLOGY FOR LOAD TEST ON SUPERSTRUCTURE The load test is conducted to know the service ability and the strength of the superstructure while serving. Load test will be conducted as per IRC SP51-1999& IRC SP 37 - 1991, Prior to load testing, the ‘superstructure shall thoroughly be examined for any cracks and marked so as to differentiate them from any distress that may occur during the load test, if any, shall be closely watched during the test. a) Te ‘The test load Equivalent to design live Joad which will be uniformly loaded in vehicie with pre weighed units like concrete blocks or Suitable material. Loaded vehicle can be placed abreast within the carriageway. b) Fixing of deflection gauges: Under superstructure deflection gauges will be fixed in equal distance just touching it soffit at the Pre- marked points. The deflection shall be measured at mid span by at least 2 dial gauges fixed on firm supports independent of the structure to be tested. These supports shall not be disturbed during testing. The initial reading without load shall be observed. ) Load application: The test load shall be applied five equal increments including the weight of vehicle in the first increment. About two hours will be maintained in between one increment and commencement of the next up to final increment. Deflections will be noted about an hour after completing a load increment. After measuring the deflections of fifth increment the test load will be maintained for about 24 hours and again deflections and cracks if any will be measured, . d) Unload application ; « . Test load will be removed in five equal decrements allowing about two hours in between completion of one load decrement and commencement of the next. Deflections will be noted at the end of each load decrement. e) Criteria for Acceptance : The recovery of deflection on removal of load is not less than 85 % of actual defledtion. The superstructure shows no sign of distress or defects during the load test