A Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) is used for non-destructive testing of pavements. The FWD is designed to measure the structural capacity and overall condition of roadways, runways, and other paved surfaces. FWDs are essential in pavement engineering, providing precise load-bearing data for the pavement structure.

A Falling Weight Deflectometer measures the deflection or deformation of a pavement surface caused by the impact of a falling weight. This data is crucial for assessing the structural integrity of the pavement and identifying any potential weaknesses or defects. By simulating the effects of traffic loads, an FWD helps engineers and professionals make informed decisions about pavement maintenance, repair, or reconstruction.

The FWD operates by dropping a heavy weight onto the pavement surface and recording the resulting deflections. The weight is typically equipped with sensors (Geophones) to measure its velocity and the force exerted on impact. As the weight strikes the pavement, it induces a deflection in the pavement structure. The sensors capture this deflection data and transmit it to the FWD's data acquisition system, which records and processes the information. From this data, engineers can assess the structural condition of the pavement, including factors like load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and layer thickness.

Investing in the right software is crucial, as it enables you to make informed decisions about pavement maintenance and rehabilitation. Moreover, it ensures that your FWD data is effectively utilized to extend the lifespan of your pavement infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the safety and performance of the road network.
To effectively analyze and interpret the data collected by a Falling Weight Deflectometer, you'll need specialized software like our ELMOD. This software is essential for processing, visualizing, and generating reports based on the FWD measurements.