TRL’s deflectograph is cleared for 2022 pavement survey duty

TRL’s deflectograph passes annual accreditation to deliver 2022 SRN pavement condition survey

Published on 25 March 2022

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National Highways commissions a continuous survey of the Strategic Network by having deflectographs driven across the network at traffic speed. Deflectographs provide an assessment of the structural condition of the pavement, and analysis of the data determines its residual life. TRL introduced the deflectograph to the UK in the late 1960s and are one of only five operators.

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the condition data, deflectograph accreditation trials are held annually by TRL on behalf of National Highways. By examining and monitoring the results from the machines operating on specified test sections, the performances of individual machines, and the whole UK fleet can be assessed. The 2022 trial was held in February on the twin horizontal straights of the Horiba-MIRA proving ground with TRL’s own deflectograph successfully passing the trial.

Deflectographs are also hired to assess stretches of the local road network, particularly in anticipation of pavement adaptation or modification, or to capture essential condition data to aid maintenance planning.

For more information about the service, and associated pavement surveys please visit the Solutions area of the TRL website.

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