The Role of Logging Operation on Rut Development in Hyrcanian Forest Roads

Abstract

In this study a road without maintenance and repairing operation on pavement layer was selected to investigate the effects of forest logging on development of ruts. For this purpose, the rate of rut area and depth on pavement layer was determined before the passage of timber trucks. After the logging operations (7 months later) the area and depth of marked ruts were measured again. Results showed that there was significant difference between the before and after logging operations for depth and area of ruts on pavement layer. The rut depth and area increased with decreasing horizontal curve radius. We found significant difference between rut depth in horizontal curve with radius more than 30m and other classes (P<0.05). Also there was significant difference between rut area in horizontal curves with radius less than 22m and other classes (P<0.05). Central tire inflation (CTI) system and radial tires with low tire pressure compacts can be used in secondary transportation of wood to avoiding pavement rutting and compaction

Keywords

• logging operation, rut development, tire pressure, pavement, timber trucks