
The Principle of Interlock:
Interlock is the inability of a paver to move independently from its neighbors. It is critical to the structural performance of interlocking concrete pavement. When considering design and construction, three types of interlock must be achieved: vertical, rotational, and horizontal interlock. These are illustrated in Figure 1.
| Horizontal interlock is primarily achieved through the use of laying patterns that disperse forces from braking, turning and accelerating vehicles. Herringbone patterns are the most effective laying patterns for maintaining interlock. |
Test your Knowledge...
- ICPI Tech Spec #4
- Shackel 1979. Shackel, B., “A Pilot Study of the Performance of Block Paving Under Traffic Using a Heavy Vehicle Simulator,” Proceedings of a Symposium on Precast Concrete Paving Block, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Shackel 1980. Shackel, B., “An Experimental Investigation of the Roles of the Bedding and Joint Sand in the Performance of Interlocking Concrete Block Pavements,” Concrete/Beton, No. 19.
- Shackel 1980. Shackel, B. “Loading and Accelerated Trafficking Tests on Three Prototype Heavy-Duty Industrial Block Pavements,” National Institute for Transport and Road Research, CSIR, Pretoria, South Africa, Technical Report 12.