Vägkroppen

Vägkroppen is a Swedish term that translates to "road body" or "road structure." It refers to the physical construction of a road, encompassing all the layers beneath the surface pavement. This includes the subbase, base, and any intermediate layers, all designed to provide support and stability to the pavement above. The type and thickness of these layers are determined by factors such as the expected traffic load, soil conditions, and environmental factors like frost.

The primary function of the vägkroppen is to distribute the load from vehicles over a wide area, preventing excessive stress on the underlying soil. This load-bearing capacity is crucial for the longevity and performance of the road. A well-constructed vägkroppen helps to prevent issues like rutting, cracking, and settlement, which can lead to premature road failure and increased maintenance costs.

Different materials are used in the construction of the vägkroppen, commonly including crushed stone, gravel, and recycled aggregates. The selection of materials is based on their strength, drainage properties, and availability. The compaction of each layer is also a critical step in the construction process, ensuring that the materials are densely packed and can effectively bear loads. Proper drainage within the vägkroppen is also essential to prevent water infiltration, which can weaken the structure and lead to frost damage. Understanding and correctly constructing the vägkroppen is fundamental to building durable and safe roads.