Coefficient of friction

[StructuralEd]

Should "design" or "ultimate" coefficient of friction be used to input into Code related load combinations?
A Code in mind also requires a SF of 1.5 after running the numbers.

I should add the the difference between the design and ultimate values is a factor of 1.5

 

[Lomarandil]

Right, many "design" coefficients of friction have the 1.5 factor of safety baked in. It'd be redundant to use that with a load combination using 0.6D + H against unity, for example.

(Presuming that you've adequately considered the coefficient of course. I think Caltrans has an adjustment factor for surfaces that might get wet that would end up washing out your 1.5 F.S.)