AASHTO T 324-04

This test method describes a procedure for testing the rutting and moisture-susceptibility of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) pavement samples in the Hamburg Wheel-Tracking Device.

The method describes the testing of submerged, compacted HMA in a reciprocating rolling-wheel device. This test provides information about the rate of permanent deformation from a moving, concentrated load. A laboratory compactor has been designed to prepare slab specimens. Also, the Superpave© Gyratory Compactor (SGC) has been designed to compact specimens in the laboratory. Alternatively, field cores of large diameter, 255 mm (10 in.) or 300 mm (12 in.), or saw-cut slab specimens may be tested.

The test method is used to determine the premature failure susceptibility of HMA due to weakness in the aggregate structure, inadequate binder stiffness, or moisture damage. This test method measures the rut depth and number of passes to failure.

The potential for moisture damage effects are evaluated since the specimens are submerged in temperature-controlled water during loading.