Evaluation of Edge Drain Performance

摘要

Portland cement concrete pavements (PCCP) constructed in California are of the plain jointed design. These PCC pavements generally develop faulting, or step-off, at the transverse joints. However, the magnitude and rate of the faulting varies considerably throughout the state. Faulting, through the pumping process, has been a major factor in slab cracking and subsequent poor pavement performance. The study presents an evaluation of the effectiveness of edge drains as a method of providing rapid drainage of surface-infiltrated water and thereby delaying or preventing pumping and subsequent faulting. Over a three year period, research indicates that edge drains are very effective in reducing faulting of PCC pavements in California.