- An interlock occurs when the individual parts of something are joined together and act effectively as a unit.
- There are three kinds of forces in a segmental pavement – vertical loads, horizontal loads & rotational loads. Paving stones are designed to withstand their stresses by “interlocking”. Certain shapes are proven to substantially strengthen this interlock to better withstand such loads and forces. Generally, vertical interlock is achieved by shear transfer of loads to surrounding units through sand in the joints. Horizontal interlock is best achieved through the use of laying patterns that disperse forces from braking and accelerating vehicles on both axes. Rotational interlock is again largely maintained by paver shape, the sufficient thickness of the units, their close placement and restraint by a stationary edge.
- Fitting, fastening or connecting together, especially by the means of teeth or parts which fit into each other.
- Each stone cannot move independently of the other, the interlock is caused by the restraints and the joint sand.
EXAMPLE:
the paving stones below are being lifted but they are not separating or popping out of place. Thís is because the joint sand between the pavers are holding them together. This is called interlock.
