Arch Culvert

Definition

An arch culvert is a curved-shaped drain designed to allow water to pass under a roadway, canal, or embankment. It typically features an arched top, which helps in distributing the load of the structure above and provides a passage for water flow.

Purpose

The primary purpose of an arch culvert is to:

• Facilitate the efficient and safe passage of water under roads, railways, canals, or other embankments, preventing waterlogging and erosion.
• Provide structural support by distributing the load from above evenly across the culvert, reducing the risk of collapse.
• Enhance the durability and lifespan of the infrastructure it supports by ensuring proper water drainage and reducing soil saturation.

Examples of Use

1. Roadways:
   • Under highways and rural roads, arch culverts direct streams and small rivers underneath the road, preventing water accumulation on the surface.
   • Used in urban areas to channel stormwater runoff away from streets and sidewalks.
2. Railways:
   • In railway construction, arch culverts are employed to allow water to pass beneath tracks, maintaining track stability and safety.
   • They are essential in areas with significant water flow to prevent track bed erosion.
3. Canals and Irrigation Systems:
   • Arch culverts are utilized to enable water flow under canal embankments, ensuring continuous water movement without disrupting the canal's structural integrity.
   • In agricultural areas, they help manage irrigation water distribution and drainage.
4. Landscaping and Parks:
   • In park designs and natural landscapes, arch culverts help manage water flow while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the area.
   • They are often used in pathways and trails to allow for the natural flow of streams and prevent water damage to the paths.

Related Terms

1. Box Culvert: A rectangular-shaped culvert used for similar purposes as an arch culvert but typically used when more substantial flow capacity is needed.
2. Pipe Culvert: A circular or oval-shaped pipe used to channel water beneath roadways and embankments.
3. Headwall: The retaining wall at the inlet or outlet of a culvert, providing structural support and preventing erosion.
4. Wingwall: Angled extensions of the headwall, helping to direct water flow into and out of the culvert.
5. Embankment: A constructed mound of earth or stone built to support a roadway or railway above the surrounding ground level.

Notes

• The design of an arch culvert must consider the hydraulic capacity required to handle peak water flow, ensuring it is neither too small nor excessively large.
• Material selection for arch culverts includes reinforced concrete, steel, and sometimes corrugated metal, each offering different advantages in terms of strength, durability, and cost.
• Regular maintenance of arch culverts is essential to prevent blockages and ensure they function effectively, particularly after heavy rains or flooding events.
• Environmental considerations, such as ensuring fish and wildlife can pass through the culvert, are important in natural and protected areas.