Subsurface Drainage of Pavement Structures: Current Corps of Engineers andIndustry Practice

摘要

Drainage of pavement structures is recognized as a key factor in improving theperformance and extending the maintenance-free life of pavement systems. The use of pavement drainage structures to remove water introduced to the pavement system by surface infiltration, melting of ice lenses formed during freeze-thaw cycles and groundwater sources has become more prevalent during the last decade. The components that make up a well-drained pavement section are commonly known: adequate surface drainage, permeable base courses, filters and a system of collector pipes. However, the details of the design of these components change with the agency constructing the pavement and the use of the pavement. The criteria and specifications of Federal and State governments, and private industry, along with those currently used by the Corps of Engineers, will be presented in this document. A comparison of the practices used in designing pavement drainage systems, among agencies, is presented to show where some design practices may benefit from technologies already accepted by others.