Bridge Weight Calculator

Formula

The formula to calculate Bridge Weight (BW) is:

\[ BW = 500 \times \left(\frac{L \times N}{N - 1} + 12 \times N + 36\right) \]

Where:

\( BW \) is the Bridge Weight (lbs)
\( L \) is the Distance Between the Extremes of Any Group of 2 or More Consecutive Axles (inches)
\( N \) is the Number of Axles in the Group

What is Bridge Weight?

Bridge Weight (BW) refers to the total weight that can be supported by a bridge based on the distance between the axles of a vehicle and the number of axles. This calculation is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of bridges when vehicles of varying sizes and weights pass over them.

Example Calculation

Let's consider an example:

Distance Between Axles (L): 240 inches
Number of Axles (N): 5

Using the formula to calculate Bridge Weight:

\[ BW = 500 \times \left(\frac{240 \times 5}{5 - 1} + 12 \times 5 + 36\right) = 500 \times \left(\frac{1200}{4} + 60 + 36\right) = 500 \times \left(300 + 60 + 36\right) = 500 \times 396 = 198000 \, \text{lbs} \]

This means that the bridge weight for the given configuration is 198,000 lbs.