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About corrugated metal pipe culvert

Types of corrugated metal pipe culvert

Various structures use different types of metal pipe culverts. The choice of type is often determined by what is required of the structure.

CMP and CSP steel culverts

Corrugated steel pipes (CSP) are among the most common types of culverts. They are strong and suitable for underground installation. They also have the capacity to handle heavy traffic. They are usually galvanized to make them resistant to corrosion, although they can sometimes be coated with polymer to enhance the resistance. They are also available in concrete coating for enhanced strength.

Corrugated Aluminum Pipe (CAP)

These pipes are lighter than steel culverts. They are most suitable for use in environments that are prone to corrosion e.g. coastal areas. CSPs are stronger than CAPs although CAPs are suitable in areas that require more extended workability. They are less likely to corrode than galvanized steel culverts. CAPs are most commonly used with sediment or debris that can easily corrode the metal pipes.

CMP concrete coated culverts

These are CSPs that have been overlayed with a layer of concrete. This improves the durability of the culvert as it reduces the likelihood of corrosion and enhances the strength of the pipe. Concrete-coated pipes are commonly used in areas that are prone to high acidity that can corrode the culvert. They are also suitable for the most vulnerable areas like coastal regions.

Corrugated PVC pipes

These are lighter and cheaper compared to steel culverts. They are resistant to corrosion and are often used in low-cost construction. CMP has a lifespan of around 50-100 years. Often used in small and low-impact construction since it is a low-cost alternative.

Industrial & Commercial applications of corrugated metal pipe culvert

The main purpose of a cattle grid is to allow vehicles and animals to cross while preventing the water from eroding the areas of crossing and allowing the effective drainage of water. They are used in several ways within industrial applications.

Road and transportation infrastructure

Culverts enable water and storm drainage on road and highway networks. They help to prevent flooding on the roads by directing the water under the roads. They are also used in areas that are prone to large water flow, such as bridges, to help stabilize the structure and prevent erosion. They are used in maintaining the integrity of the roads. For example, Hamilton County, Tennessee, increased the lifespan of its roads by 37% when it installed metal pipe culverts under them.

Agricultural practices

Culverts on agricultural land provide the needed drainage of water in the irrigation systems while helping to control the water runoff within the fields. They help prevent soil erosion, which may impact the crops negatively. They are used to minimize flooding in agricultural areas that may affect crop growth.

Railways and transportation

Culverts help to allow water and stormwater drainage beneath the railway tracks. Like on the road, culverts prevent water from flooding on the railway tracks. Further, they help to prevent erosion that can undermine the railway infrastructure. They are used in lower and higher volume areas of train.

Construction and mining operations

Culverts facilitate the storm water and waste water drainage of construction sites. They control the erosion that may negatively impact the construction work. For example, culverts help to drain water away from excavated areas, hence minimizing flooding. In mining operations, culverts help manage runoff, which can cause erosion and ecological disturbance.

Urban areas and developments

Culverts help manage stormwater in developed areas. They do a similar function of directing rainwater from the streets, driveways, and buildings to the natural water bodies like lakes, rivers, and ponds while averting flooding. They also improve the roadway safety by preventing water on the roads hence enhancing safety. In urban developments, CSPs can also be used to maintain ecological balance by providing animals with the passage to wetlands or other ecosystems that are not conducive to them.

Forestry operations

Culverts provide drainage for water on forest roads and help prevent erosion. They allow movement and access within the forests for logging equipment and vehicles without damaging the ecosystem. They help maintain the water quality in the forested areas by directing the runoff from the roads.

Product specifications and Options of corrugated metal pipe culvert

Technical specifications of CMP

Cattle grids are mostly fabricated from steel, and then they get a galvanization process for corrosion resistance. The differences in corrugation and dimensions are governed by different agencies like the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

  • Types of galvanized corrugated pipe

    Corrugation patterns are semi-circular, with other types having other shapes of corrugation according to the purpose and usage required. Options include galvanized steel, polymer-treated coated steel, and concrete-coated steel.

  • Diameter and length

    Typically, CMPs are between 12 inches to 144 inches in diameter. Standard lengths range from 10 feet to 20 feet, though culverts can be custom-made to different lengths and diameters.

  • Wall thickness

    The other thinner walls allow better flexibility and ease of digging in the ground. However, the thickness can vary depending on the pipe's diameter and the stresses it will be subject to.

  • Corrugation dimensions

    The common corrugation sizes are 2.66 inches by 0.1 inches, 5 inches by 1 inch, and 6 inches by 1.25 inches. The thickness of the corrugated metal will depend on the diameter of the pipe.

  • Material standards

    CMP must meet AASHTO requirements and be approved by the CFHA as acceptable for drainage applications.

How to install a CMP

A nut and bolt coupling, expansion joints, and a flexible or rigid connection connect the culverts to other drainage systems. The expansion joint allows for changes in temperature. Flex and rigid connections are used to minimize soil or sediment intrusion. Flexible connections provide for soil movement. Rigid connections are to be used with concrete structures.

  • Prepare the trench: Ideally, the trench should be 1 foot deeper than the diameter of the pipe and should be large enough so that the pipe doesn't touch the sides.
  • Install the bedding: A layer of sand or gravel should be placed at the bottom of the trench to create a stable base for the pipe.
  • Place the pipe: The pipe should be set on the bedding in the trench using a level to ensure it is at the right angle and position.
  • Backfill the trench: Soil or gravel should be used to partially cover the pipe, then compact it to hold the pipe in place.
  • Complete backfilling: The trench should be fully backfilled with the original soil or gravel, then compact it completely.

Quality and Safety Considerations of corrugated metal pipe culvert

Proper inspection

Prior to installation, check for quality issues such as cracks, holes, or corrosion in the components. Also, ensure the culvert is installed on a stable surface and positioned correctly. A level culvert prevents water pooling, which causes structural problems and eventual failure. Ensure the culvert is properly supported. Provide adequate backing so the culvert does not sag or bend, causing failures.

Use safety signage

Caution signs should be placed around the installation area and work boots should be worn, and adhere to all relevant health and safety regulations. Use appropriate personal protective equipment like hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility vests. Ensure work areas are clearly defined and organized.

Turn off and isolate machinery

All the machines used in the installation should be turned off and isolated. Also, ensure there are no water or electricity lines in the area that can be accidentally damaged while digging trenches or holes. Use hand tools where possible to minimize the risk of injury. For example, use spades or shovels instead of power digging tools, which can lead to injuries. Culvert pens should be checked daily for water accumulation. Ensure any water accumulation is drained to reduce risk of injury or disease.

Good housekeeping

The area should be kept tidy to minimize risks like slips and falls. All tools should be stored safely once done using them. The installation area should be checked for hazards like pests, wild animals, or low-lying electric cables, which can disrupt the process and pose dangers.

Check product specifications

Use the type, size, and material recommended by the manufacturer to be suitable for each specific application. The AASHTO code must also be adhered to when selecting the thickness and diameter.

Q&A

Q1. How to choose the right culvert?

A1. The selection criteria include soil conditions, amount of water, and traffic, as well as environmental concerns.

Q2. What is the difference between a culvert and an embankment?

A2. Culverts are underground facilities that allow water, usually stormwater, even agricultural drainage, to pass through an embankment. An embankment is a mound-shaped structure constructed with material like earth to control water.

Q3. What are the characteristics of a good culvert?

A3. Some of the characteristics include good quality construction materials, provide drainage for all water volumes, proper sizing, stable soils and roads, traffic compatibility, and long service life.

Q4. Are culverts beneficial to wildlife?

A4. They are beneficial because they create an avenue for animals to move across human developments to access important resource areas like water and food.

Q5. Are corrugated metal pipes prone to clogging?

A5. They can be prone to clogging if not properly maintained. Clogging can happen if a lot of dirt, sediment, or debris accumulates in the culvert over time.