United States Department of Transportation
i
Developing short-span alternatives to reinforced concrete box culvert structures in Kansas.
-
2014-07-01
[PDF-2.69 MB]
Details:
-
Creators:
-
Corporate Creators:
-
Subject/TRT Terms:
-
Publication/ Report Number:
-
Resource Type:
-
Geographical Coverage:
-
Corporate Publisher:
-
Abstract:Concrete box culvert floor slabs are known to have detrimental effects on river and stream hydraulics.
Consequences include an aquatic environment less friendly to the passage of fish and other organisms. This has
prompted environmental regulations restricting construction of traditional, four-sided box culvert structures in rivers
and streams populated by protected species. The box culvert standard currently used by the Kansas Department of
Transportation (KDOT) is likely to receive increased scrutiny from federal and state environmental regulators in the
near future.
Additionally, multiple-cell box culverts present a maintenance challenge, since passing driftwood and debris
are frequently caught in the barrels and around cell walls. As more structures reach the end of their design lives, new
solutions must be developed to facilitate a more suitable replacement. Since construction can cause significant delays
to the traveling public, systems and techniques that accelerate the construction process should also be considered.
This report documents development of a single-span replacement system for box culverts in the state of
Kansas. Solutions were found using either a flat slab or the center span of the KDOT three-span, haunched-slab bridge
standard. In both cases, the concrete superstructure is connected monolithically with a set of abutment walls, which sit
on piling. The system provides an undisturbed, natural channel bottom, satisfying environmental regulations. Important
structural, construction, maintenance, and economic criteria considered during the planning stages of bridge design are
discussed.
While both superstructural systems were found to perform acceptably, the haunched section was chosen for
preliminary design. Rationale for selection of this system is explained. Structural modeling, analysis, and design data
are presented to demonstrate viability of the system for spans ranging from 32 to 72 feet. The new system is expected
to meet KDOT’s needs for structural, environmental, and hydraulic performance, as well as long-term durability.
Another option involving accelerated bridge construction (ABC) practices is discussed.
-
Format:
-
Funding:
-
Collection(s):
-
Main Document Checksum:
-
Download URL:
-
File Type:
