Culvert

Department of Transport and Main Roads Chapter 9
Road Drainage Manual Culvert Design
Chapter 9
Culvert Design
March 2010
i
Chapter 9 Amendments Mar 2010

Revision Register
Issue/ Reference Description of Revision Authorised Date
Rev Section by
No.
1 - Initial Release of 2nd Ed of manual. Steering Mar
Committee 2010
March 2010
ii
Table of Contents
9.1 Introduction 9-1
9.1.1 Overview 9-1
9.1.2 Constructability 9-2
9.1.3 Computer Programs 9-2
9.2 General Requirements 9-2
9.2.1 Pipe Joint Types 9-2
9.2.2 Geometric Tolerances and Cover Requirements 9-3
9.2.3 Skew Angle / Skew Number 9-3
9.2.4 Minimum Culvert Size 9-3
9.2.5 Outlet Flow Velocity 9-3
9.2.6 Structural and Configuration Requirements of Culverts 9-4
9.2.7 Culverts in Expansive Soil Areas 9-9
9.2.8 Flap Gates (Tides and Floods) 9-15
9.2.9 Multiple Barrels 9-16
9.2.10 Reduction in Culvert Size 9-16
9.2.11 Splay Pipes 9-16
9.3 General Process for Culvert Design 9-17
9.4 Location of Culverts 9-19
9.5 Allowable Headwater 9-20
9.6 Preliminary Selection of Culvert Size 9-21
9
9.7 Requirements for Fauna Passage 9-21
9.7.1 Considerations for Fish Passage 9-21
9.7.2 Culvert Specifications for Fish Passage 9-21
9.7.3 Considerations for Terrestrial Passage 9-23
9.7.4 Culvert Features for Fauna Passage 9-25
9.7.5 Stock Underpass 9-27
9.8 Selection of Culvert Type 9-27
9.9 Typical Culvert Operating Conditions 9-28
9.9.1 Inlet Control Conditions 9-30
9.9.2 Outlet Control Conditions 9-30
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9.10 Hydraulic Calculations 9-30

9.10.1 Control at Inlet 9-30
9.10.2 Control at Outlet 9-31
9.10.3 Determination of Tailwater 9-34
9.11 Design Procedure 9-34
9.11.1 Hydraulic Design 9-34
9.11.2 Practical Design 9-41
9.12 Minimum Energy Loss Culverts 9-41
9.13 Blockage of Culverts 9-42
9.14 Consideration of Large or Extreme Events 9-43
9.15 Culvert Outlet Protection 9-43
9.16 Special Energy Dissipation Structures at Culvert Outlet 9-46
9.17 Self Cleaning Culverts 9-49
9.18 Inlet Structures 9-49
9.19 Managing Sediment 9-49
9.20 Safety 9-50
9.20.1 Culverts Used As Walkways and Bikeways 9-50
9.20.2 Barriers to Flow 9-50
9.20.3 Additional Safety Considerations 9-50
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iv
Chapter 9
Culvert Design
If no passage is to be provided, then the

9.1 Introduction
culvert is designed solely for hydraulic
9.1.1 Overview purposes.
Hydraulic design of culverts is often an
Culverts are important hydraulic structures iterative process. As such, while the layout
used to convey water across a road corridor of this chapter reflects a typical order of
or in one of a range of other situations. design, this will not always be the case. In
Culverts must be designed to convey this many instances it may be necessary to
flow in an acceptable way, considering the revisit steps in the design process. Section
hydraulic conditions and the required 9.3 sets out a general process for the design
performance (level of flood immunity) of of the culverts while Sections 9.10 and 9.11
the road. Environmental and/or other provide more detail. The process adopted is
requirements may also need to be considered as industry practice and while a
considered / incorporated depending on the simplified process, it is appropriate for most
specific circumstances. culverts designs.
In particular, the provision of fauna Changes may arise for technical or non-
passage, including fish movement, may technical reasons, and hence a clear record
need to be incorporated into the design. In of the decision making process should be
certain situations (typically where specified retained at all times.
by an environmental assessment document),
culvert designs will have special Procedures for assessing the erosion
requirements to allow the passage of fish or potential and control at the inlet and outlets
terrestrial fauna. of culverts are included as part of the
culvert design process. In some cases,
Other uses for culvert structures may hydraulic structures for permanent erosion
include pedestrian / cyclist movement,
vehicular movement (including rail / cane
rail), fauna crossing or stock underpass.
control may be required with the design of
culvert inlet and outlet structures and 9
energy dissipaters considered.
While the requirements will differ In some locations, the design will be
depending on whether passage is to be complex and beyond the methods presented
catered for, all will require a clear in this chapter. In this instance, computer
distinction between wet and dry model development, simulation and testing
passageways. may assist in design and the designer
The size requirements for passage as well should contact the Director (Hydraulics),
as hydraulic requirements need to be Hydraulics Section, Engineering &
considered and the culvert sized Technology Division for further guidance.
appropriately to meet both of these
requirements.
March 2010
9-1
9.1.2 Constructability chainage, skew number, invert

heights, culvert component details
When designing culverts, construction and (including joint type), quantities of
future maintenance requirements must be precast components and installation
considered with appropriate treatments materials, hydraulic design details;
incorporated into the design. Some and
guidance with respect to construction
incorporates the culvert model into
requirements and methods can be found
the project electronic model within
within various departmental standard
the 12d Model application.
drawings and specifications. However, this
must not prevent all hydraulic and As with all tools, use of this computer
environmental requirements from being program will require output to be checked
satisfied. and verified.
Relevant standard drawings for culverts are: As a quick check, the head loss through a
1131, 1132, 1145, 1148, 1174, 1179, 1284, culvert is typically around 1.4 to 1.7 times
1303, 1304, 1305, 1306, 1316, 1317, 1318, the velocity head. Alternatively, review the
1319, 1320 and 1359 (QDMR 2009b). design charts provided in this chapter (and
appendices) or perform a quick manual
The main departmental specifications are
calculation.
MRTS03 and MRTS04 (TMR 2010c).
For any possible non-standard or 9.2 General Requirements
complicated culvert configurations, it is
highly recommended that designers should 9.2.1 Pipe Joint Types
involve construction personnel early in the
design process to provide site specific There are three types of joints for
construction / constructability advice. reinforced pipes:
Flush or Butt Joint;
9.1.3 Computer Programs
Rubber Ring Joint / Spigot and
With reference to Section 1.2.2.5, the Socket; and
department requires the use of the Jacking.
9 CULVERT software to hydraulically

design culverts and model them within the
12d Model application. The reasoning
Table 9.2.1 recommends the types of pipe
that should be used. Designers should
for this requirement is that the software: choose the most appropriate joint type for
each installation.
performs the hydraulic design of
cross road drainage consistent with Flush or Butt Joint pipes are best suited
practice detailed in this chapter; where excessive movement is not expected.
They are an economical option where
provides records of the culvert installations require a high level of
design; compaction and the resulting soil envelope
produces the drawing of the designed is extremely stable.
drainage cross section to Rubber Ring Joint / Spigot and Socket type
departmental standards, i.e. showing pipes allow for ground movement. This
March 2010
9-2
type should also be used where the normal The skew number is the number of degrees
groundwater level is above the pipe obvert. measured in a clockwise direction from the
Notwithstanding the requirements of Table road centreline to the structure centreline.
9.2.1, rubber ringed spigot and socket joints Skew Number is required for ordering
should generally be used for all sizes of metal structures.
pipe in unstable ground, when pipes are laid
in sand, or where pipe movement is
possible, such as on the side of fills or at Skew
Number
transitions from cut to fill.
Jacking pipes are used where conventional
excavation / laying / backfill methods are
not feasible. Designers should refer to
manufacturers guidelines for selection, use
and design detail for jacking pipes.
Table 9.2.1 Recommended Pipe Joint

Types
Figure 9.2.3 Skew Number / Skew Angle
Nom. Pipe Size
Pipe Type
(mm) 9.2.4 Minimum Culvert Size
Rubber Ring Joint /
Up to 600 The minimum diameter of any pipe culvert
Spigot and Socket
shall be 375 mm.
675 and above Flush or Butt Joint
The minimum waterway dimension (height)
9.2.2 Geometric Tolerances and of any box section shall be 375 mm,
Cover Requirements however in constrained situations and
where all reasonable attempts to fit a 375
The geometric tolerances for location / mm high box section have failed, a
position of culverts and minimum cover minimum 300 mm high box culvert can be
requirements will be as specified in the used.
drawings or as per the departments
specification MRTS03 (TMR 2010c). 9.2.5 Outlet Flow Velocity 9
9.2.3 Skew Angle / Skew The calculation of outlet velocity is
Number required for every culvert, and the type and
extent of protection should be decided after
As per MRTS01 (TMR 2010c), the consideration of the outlet velocity, the
determination of the Skew Angle and/or natural downstream ground conditions, the
Skew Number for a skewed culvert natural stream velocities, and the
installation is shown in Figure 9.2.3. These performance of existing culverts in the area.
terms are used to specify the horizontal
High outlet velocities can cause erosion for
orientation of skewed culvert structures
a significant distance downstream of an
relative to the road centre line.
outlet. Where high outlet velocities are
expected, appropriate dissipation and/or
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9-3
protection measures will be required. (c) Construction traffic loads; and

Where possible, culverts should be
(d) Other or abnormal load conditions.
designed to provide acceptable velocities
without the need for additional channel The load bearing capacity of a culvert is a
protection. Allowable velocities to avoid function of:
scour vary according to soil type and unit strength (for example, pipe
topography. class);
Table 9.2.5 provides some target culvert type of bedding and backfill material;
outlet velocities for various channel and
materials. These target velocities must be
pipe diameter (excluding box
verified / amended by data gathered from
culverts).
site inspections and relevant environmental
reports. The structural requirements with respect to
Table 9.2.5 Target Culvert Outlet loading on culverts must be in accordance
Velocities with the departments specification
Material Target Outlet MRTS25 (TMR 2010c).
Downstream of Velocity (m/s)
The department generally specifies either
Culvert Outlet
H2 or HS3 support types - refer AS 3725,
Rock 4.5
Standard Drawing 1359 (QDMR 2009b)
and Section 9.2.6.
Stones 150 mm 3.5
diameter or larger 9.2.6.1 Structural Requirements
Gravel 100 mm or 2.5 for New Structures
grass cover The design life for all culvert types is now
Firm loam or stiff 1.2 - 2.0 100 years. The following departmental
clay specifications (TMR 2010c) apply to
Sandy or silty clay 1.0 1.5 culvert components:
Source: derived from Austroads GRD Part 5 (2008) MRTS24 For concrete box culvert
components;
9.2.6 Structural and
9 Configuration
Requirements of Culverts
MRTS25 for precast concrete pipe
components;
MRTS26 - for fibre reinforced pipe
Loads on buried culverts include: components; and
(a) Fill over the structure, which is a MRTS29 for polyethylene and
function of: polypropylene pipe components.
height of fill Steel culvert components do not currently
type of fill material have an applicable departmental
specification and do not meet the 100 year
installation conditions (e.g. trench design life requirement without protective
or embankment) coatings. Refer Section 9.2.6.8 for more
(b) Design traffic loads; details.
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9-4
9.2.6.2 Structural Requirements be retained. Final decisions to retain

for Existing Structures any of these culverts would be on the
basis of the findings of the
The road network is increasingly subjected
inspection.
to vehicles carrying heavy loads. Bridges
and culverts designed since 2004 are in Further advice in relation to this
accordance with AS 5100 which has requirement can be obtained from Director
SM1600 design loads and HLP 400 (Bridge Design), Bridge Design Section,
vehicles. However, bridges and culverts Engineering & Technology Division.
that were designed and constructed prior to
It is acknowledged that this
2004 do not have a design loading
recommendation will increase project cost
capability for heavy loads.
estimates for all future projects, however, as
Specifically, pre-cast and cast-in-situ the heavy load capacity of the road network
culverts purchased and/or placed in the road is dependant on the structural capacity of
network before 1976 were designed for bridges and culverts and to reduce any risk
significantly lighter loads. Furthermore, of structural failure and subsequent traffic
many of these culverts are near or past their accident / injury, it is important that this
design life. recommendation be seriously considered.
This means that existing, pre-1976 culvert 9.2.6.3 General Configuration
structures on the road network are being Requirements
subjected to repetitive and/or peak loadings
Culverts are laid in single or multi-cell
that exceed the structural design capacity of
installations. Culverts are also laid straight
the culvert structure, thus greatly increasing
and on a constant slope / grade (also refer
the risk of structural failure or fatigue
Sections 9.2.10 and 9.2.11).
failure. Of particular concern are pre-1976
culverts that have a critical loading case, For multi-cell installations, each cell or
such as structures that have less than 2 barrel must be of the same size / dimension.
meters of cover, including pavement layers. There are two exceptions to this
Therefore for all projects (excluding requirement.
maintenance) on State controlled or Auslink Where a different cell size is required
roads;
it is strongly recommended that no
in a multi-cell installation to
accommodate passage (human or 9
pre-1976 drainage structure be fauna), similar to the configuration as
lengthened or subject to other shown in Figure 9.7.4(c). or
improvements that would increase its In a Slab Link Box Culvert (SLBC)
service life. These structures should installation where the spanning
be removed and replaced, and/or slab(s) maybe longer than the width
with a reasonably high commercial of the box unit (refer manufacturer
vehicle count or likely to be for additional details).
subjected to peak loadings from Where a different cell size is required, the
permitted vehicles, it is considered designer should note that design software,
mandatory to conduct a level 2 standard drawings and specifications do not
inspection of any culvert proposed to fully cover these types of installations.
March 2010
9-5
Therefore the designer is required to to a higher strength pipe with H2 support.

manually design these installations and These combinations of pipe strength and
include all details and specification in the support condition should be cost analysed
model / drawings / project documents. to determine an economical solution.
As per the departments specification The load on a pipe installed in a trench
MRTS03 (TMR 2010c), Rubber Ring Joint depends upon the width of the trench and is
/ Spigot and Socket pipes are placed with particularly sensitive to any changes in this
their spigot end facing the culvert outlet. dimension. Therefore, the trench width
specified by design is a maximum
9.2.6.4 Reinforced Concrete
allowable and not a minimum.
Pipes
It is important that the maximum allowable
The strength classes of reinforced concrete
trench widths used in the design be strictly
pipes (RCP) generally used are 2, 3 and 4.
adhered to during construction. If any
The minimum strength class for concrete
doubt exists as to whether the design trench
drainage pipes should be Class 2.
width can be maintained (for example, wet
Higher strength pipes, expressed as weather causing erosion and slips of the
multiples of 2 (6, 8 and 10), are also trench wall), it is recommended that the
manufactured to order. embankment installation be used to
It is important for designers and determine allowable heights of
construction contractors (essential for the embankment.
latter) to consider construction loads when For heights of cover less than 3 m, the
determining pipe class during design / allowable height depends on both live and
installation of culverts to avoid earth loads. At these lower heights, the live
overstressing installed pipe units and cause load is a major contributor to the total load
cracks / fractures. While temporary load on the pipe.
mitigating measures during construction
Design engineers can use other support
exist, it may be an economical solution to
conditions as detailed in AS 3725, however
use a higher class pipe.
Standard Drawings and Specifications do
With reference to AS 3725 and Standard not address these.
9 Drawing 1359 (QDMR 2009b), the support

condition normally used is H2 for both
embankment and trench installations. The
9.2.6.5 Fibre Reinforced Pipes
Fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) pipes are
HS3 support condition should be used similar to reinforced concrete pipes in their
where the height of the cover is critical, and requirements and are available in sizes 100
where significant savings can be made by mm to 750 mm in Classes 1, 2, 3 and 4.
using a lower class pipe. They are generally suitable anywhere an
RCP could be used (refer Section 2.3.5.3).
To illustrate this point, the H2 support
The reinforcement is a cellulose (wood
condition is typically cheaper to construct
fibre) product. Hydraulic design curves for
than HS3. However, under the same site,
precast reinforced concrete pipes (RCP) are
load and cover conditions, it may be
appropriate, although FRC pipes have
possible to use a lower strength pipe
slightly lower roughness coefficients.
together with HS3 support than compared
March 2010
9-6
9.2.6.6 Reinforced Concrete Box In expansive soil areas, RCBC and SLBC
Culverts installations require special consideration.
Refer Section 9.2.7 for details.
Standard precast reinforced concrete box
culverts (RCBC) are manufactured in a 9.2.6.7 Reinforced Concrete Slab
range of standard sizes. Small box culverts Deck Culvert (RCSDC)
are available in the range 300 x 150 mm to
The standard RCSDC of 2500 mm span
1200 x 900 mm and large box culverts in
allows for a maximum fill of 2500 mm
the range 1500 x 600 mm to 3600 x 3600
above the slab deck and is a cast-in-situ
mm.
structure (refer Standard Drawings Nos.
In accordance with the departments 1131 and 1132(QDMR 2009b)).
specification MRTS24 (TMR 2010c),
9.2.6.8 Corrugated Steel Pipes
standard RCBC and link slab components
have been manufactured to withstand a Corrugated steel pipes, as shown in Figure
maximum height of fill (including 9.2.6.8(a) offer a light-weight alternative
pavement) of 2.0 m. For higher fills when compared to concrete pipes. This is a
(including pavement) a special design for particularly important consideration when
proposed installation is necessary. transport of material over long distances
becomes costly.
For multi-cell installations, slab linked
construction (SLBC) should be considered,
as shown in Figure 9.2.6.6. Details are
shown on Standard Drawings Nos. 1303,
1316, 1317, 1318, 1319 and 1320 (QDMR
2009b).
Figure 9.2.6.8(a) - Corrugated Steel
9
Pipes
The following Australian Standards are

relevant to corrugated steel pipes:
Figure 9.2.6.6 Slab Link Box Culvert
under Construction AS 1761-1985 Helical lock-seam
corrugated steel pipes;
AS 1762-1984 Helical lock-seam
RCBC and SLBC can be used with nominal corrugated steel pipes - Design and
minimal cover above the culverts. Nominal installation; and
cover has advantages in regions where the
height of the overall formation is critical. AS 2041-1998 Buried corrugated
metal structures.
March 2010
9-7
The departments specification MRTS03

(TMR 2010c) also contains requirements
for supply and construction of metal
culverts.
New steel culvert components must have a
protective coating applied to both internal
and external surfaces in order to meet the
required 100 year design life. The
protective coatings must conform to:
Galvanizing to Z600 in accordance
with AS 1397; and
A polymer coating to ASTM A742. Figure 9.2.6.8(b) - Culvert Lining Detail
Before specifying in design / used in It is important to note that any bolts or lugs
construction, any proposed steel culvert that are connected to the culvert to allow
product with the above protective coating anchorage for the concrete invert must also
applied must be approved by Bridge Design be covered by the protective galvanizing /
Section, Engineering & Technology polymer coating.
Division).
Further details for concrete lining are
Additional design requirements for contained in the departments specification
helical culverts are: MRTS03 (TMR 2010c).
The maximum diameter of helical The design of Corrugated Metal Helical
pipe culverts complying with Pipe and Arch Culverts is not as simple as
AS1761 and AS1762 shall be 3600 for concrete culverts and therefore should
mm; be undertaken by an experienced design
The maximum flexibility factor for engineer. Furthermore, installation of metal
installation shall not exceed the limits culverts is also specialised and therefore
in AS1762. should be undertaken by qualified /
experienced personnel. Assistance and
9
Apart from the above protective coating advice with respect to the design and
requirement, steel culverts must also have installation of metal culverts can be
invert protection. The invert of all provided by Bridge Design Section,
corrugated steel pipe culverts shall be lined Engineering & Technology Division, when
with concrete as follows: required.
Concrete Class: 32 MPA / 9.5; 9.2.6.9 Plastic Flexible Pipes
Minimum depth of concrete above Flexible plastic pipes are being used in
corrugations: 50 mm; and small quantities by some road authorities.
Minimum height of lining above Conditional approval has been given for the
invert to be D/6 where D denotes use of these types of pipes on some
diameter as shown in Figure departmental projects. They have typically
9.2.6.8(b). been allowed to be used in non-traffic
loaded areas.
March 2010
9-8
They have been used successfully to line 9.2.6.11 Other Structural

corroded or damaged pipes as their light Aspects
weight allows easier installation. They
All other structural aspects should be
should be considered as a viable alternative
referred to the departments Bridge Design
in very acidic and corrosive sites.
Section, Structures Branch located within
Disadvantages include additional care
Engineering & Technology for advice
needed during installation to prevent
and/or guidance.
excessive movement and flotation of the
flexible pipe and concerns about 9.2.7 Culverts in Expansive Soil
performance should a fire occur. Areas
Further work is being undertaken by the
Expansive soils pose particular problems in
department with regard to the specification
civil engineering works due to shrink-swell
and use of flexible plastic pipes (including
behaviour. With respect to drainage
in traffic loaded areas) and outcomes of this
structures, this movement in the soil places
work will be included in updates to this
uneven stresses on RCBC, SLBC and RCC
manual.
culverts and can damage the structure as
Generally, design is to comply with shown in Figures 9.2.7(a) & (b). In Figure
AS/NZS 2566.1:1998 - Buried flexible 9.2.7(a), the longitudinal crack stops at the
pipelines Part 1. Structural design and slab which forms the footing of the wing
installation is to comply with AS/NZS wall. While the apron has risen relative to
2566.1:2002 - Buried flexible pipelines Part the wingwall, the outer edge of the apron
2: Installation. has dropped and now slopes away from the
9.2.6.10 Aluminium Culverts culvert. Figure 9.2.7(b) shows the vertical
displacement across the break in the apron
Aluminium culverts have been used in
slab. Again, the apron has risen relative to
small quantities by the department.
the wingwalls.
Aluminium is suitable for use in pH range 4
Other issues, such as culverts which appear
to 9. The advantages of aluminium culverts
to rise above their original level,
relate to their ability to be used in areas
approaches to culverts that deform, and
where the natural material has a pH in the
range of 4 to 6. This pH range is aggressive
to many materials and aluminium culverts
pavement distress over culverts, are often
the result of volume changes in expansive
soil foundations and embankments. With
9
represent a durable solution in these
differential ground movements taking place
environments.
at the culvert / approach interfaces, heavy
Design criteria for aluminium culverts are vehicles can inflict high axle impact loads
covered in AS/NZS 2041. on the structure. The design load of
culverts is influenced more by high impact
Aluminium is not as strong as steel;
loads of individual axles rather than the
consequently a larger wall thickness is
behaviour of the entire vehicle. High
required for an equivalent installation as
impacts on structures can dramatically
compared to steel. Aluminium is also more
reduce service lives.
expensive than steel.
March 2010
9-9
Longitudinal Crack
Figure 9.2.7(a) Longitudinal Cracking of Apron Failure
Figure 9.2.7(a) Vertical Displacement of Apron Failure
March 2010
9-10
This section addresses: applied stress.

multiple barrel, reinforced concrete Changes in soil moisture produce suction
box culverts (RCBC) and slab link changes, which in turn produce a loading /
box culverts (SLBC); and unloading effect on the soils and result in
volume changes in the soil. The two most
multiple barrel, reinforced concrete
important site-specific issues with regard to
culverts (RCC);
suction are:
with a total length greater than 10 m
the postulated suction change at the
along the road centreline in expansive soil
surface;
conditions.
the depth over which the suction
9.2.7.1 Expansive Soil Potential
change manifests, called the active
The shrink-swell behaviour of expansive depth (generally between 2 to 5 m).
soils is caused by moisture movement in the
Whilst some guidance is available for
soil brought about by climatic changes
expansive soil embankments in road
producing moisture variations from extreme
construction the problem with drainage
wet to extreme dry or vice versa. Examples
structures in expansive soils is different in
are:
that it is a soil / structure interaction
soils in arid climates, usually in a condition.
desiccated state i.e. cracked, which
Experience has shown that expansive soil
are subjected to occasional unusually
problems generally tend to occur in soils
high rainfall or prolonged inundation
which have a Linear Shrinkage greater than
causing the soil to saturate and
8% and/or swell strains greater than 5% at
expand;
OMC (based on a multi-point soaked CBR
soils in semi-arid climates where the test).
moisture conditions of the soil reflect
According to the Unified Soil
the wet-dry seasonal cycle and may
Classification, these soils range from
be subjected to occasional climate
SC/CL to CH and are not necessarily
extremes of drought and flood; and
restricted to high plasticity CH clays.
9
predominantly wet soils which from
Therefore particular design and/or
time to time are subjected to a
construction considerations need to be
prolonged period of drought and
adopted to avert damage to culverts where
exhibit drying shrinkage.
expansive soils are exposed to significant
The shrink-swell behaviour or volume long term moisture changes.
change phenomena is controlled by three
9.2.7.2 Postulated Mechanism of
major factors:
Distress
intrinsic expansiveness of the soil
The observed movement in some large
(generally characterised by shrink-
culverts is generally a movement of the
swell index for the soil);
outer edges of the culvert relative to the
suction change (site specific and central section of the culvert, which is
dependent on the atmospheric generally immune to the movement. Figure
conditions); and
March 2010
9-11
9.2.7.2 depicts this failure mechanism for uniform heave due to their inherent
two case study sites. geometric stiffness.
It is considered most likely that the outer 9.2.7.3 Standard Drawings
edges, i.e. apron slabs, are subjected to
The current Standard Drawings for culvert
extremes of wetting / drying phenomena
bases do not state the design assumptions
which produce either high swelling
on which the drawings are based and, most
pressures or lack of base support.
importantly, situations when the drawings
Most small culverts (< 10 m along the road are inappropriate for use.
centreline) generally only suffer small
movement which is satisfactory or exhibit a
Figure 9.2.7.2 Failure Mechanism of Base Slabs in Expansive Soils
March 2010
9-12
The design assumptions on which those swell > 5%). This preliminary testing can
drawings are based include: be undertaken at the Regional level.
the base slabs are designed as a beam It is imperative that a vertical profile is
on a moisture insensitive, elastic established to determine the extent of the
foundation, i.e. differential settlement actual expansive zone. A field
due to moisture changes are not a investigation should include:
design consideration in the standard
Trenching or drilling to 2 m depth
drawing; and
under or in the vicinity of the
the minimum ultimate bearing proposed culvert location;
capacity of the strata under the
In-situ moisture content (Q102A) and
culvert base is at least 150 kPa but
density testing (Q111A) at every 300
preferably in excess of 200 kPa.
mm in depth or at change of soil
Sites subject to large settlements or large horizon, whichever is earlier, to
differential settlements, arising out of determine the active zone. (Below
moderate or highly expansive soils below the active zone, no significant
the culvert base, are outside the design moisture content changes occur over
method of these Standard Drawings. time). Due to lack of data, AS 2870 -
1996 gives little guidance on active
9.2.7.4 Amended Design
depths for Queensland conditions.
Procedure
For most other States, e.g. Victoria,
For culverts with a base greater than 10 m where the reactivity of clay profiles
along road centreline, specialist has been the subject of extensive
geotechnical and structural advice (from research, useful guidance is
TMR E&T Division) should be obtained available;
where highly reactive or expansive clay
50 mm undisturbed tubes taken from
soils (linear shrinkage > 8% and/or CBR
each soil horizon, for shrink-swell
swell > 5%) occur below the culvert bases.
index testing and filter paper suction
This is to determine if non-standard base
measurements.
slabs or other foundation treatments are
required. Adequate materials to be sourced
9.2.7.5 Foundation Investigation from each location for the following
laboratory tests.
9
An appropriate, special investigation for
A laboratory investigation is required for
culvert bases on expansive soils should be
each soil horizon. The required tests are
undertaken in a similar manner to the
detailed in Table 9.2.7.5.
proven need for special bridge site
investigations. This work should be If instrumented sites are established in
undertaken under the direction of specialist different soil / climatic regions, enabling a
geotechnical engineers and/or geologists as rational classification of soil / climatic
appropriate. This is required only if behaviour response patterns, the level of
preliminary testing indicates the subgrade testing can be reduced in the future.
to be expansive (i.e. LS > 8% and/or CBR
March 2010
9-13
Table 9.2.7.5 Required Tests ripping, scarifying and then

Parameter Test Method
compacting the soil with moisture
Particle size and/or density control.
distribution (Sieve Q103A
analysis) These processes are carried out to a depth
Liquid Limit Q104A beyond the level of seasonal moisture
Plastic Limit Q105
Linear Shrinkage Q106 variation within the soil. The areas to be
Shrink-swell index* AS2870-1996 treated would be under the aprons and 1 m
Filter paper suction
BRE-IP 4/93 beyond the cut-off wall of the apron.
measurement*
Control of Foundation Moisture
Fluctuations - Moisture Stability
9.2.7.6 Options for the Control of The aim of these methods is to control the
Distress in Culverts moisture fluctuations in the foundation
For drainage structures using culvert bases, within acceptable limits. Methods of
special measures need to be undertaken to control may include one of the following:
avert distress. Options for control of pre-wetting or ponding a foundation
distress of culvert bases may be categorised prior to construction;
into either geotechnical alternatives or
structural alternatives. In many cases, stabilisation of foundation moisture
geotechnical methods may be used conditions by a physical limit, e.g.
successfully in conjunction with structural vertical moisture barriers. This
methods. involves the placement of a
geomembrane (generally a
(a) Geotechnical Methods waterproof fabric) in a trench along
There are broadly two geotechnical the perimeter of the slab to the limit
methods for limiting damage to light of the estimated active zone depth.
structures such as culverts constructed on These vertical barriers minimise
expansive soil foundations. These either seasonal lateral migration of moisture
reduce the expansive potential of the soil or to and from the foundation soils
minimise the seasonal fluctuations of the beneath the foundation slab. Details
of backfilling and other technical
9
subgrade moisture.
issues will need to be covered by
Reducing Expansive Potential of the
supplementary specifications; or
Foundation - Volume Stability
extending the concrete apron with a
Methods for reducing the expansive
flexible apron, e.g. grout-filled
potential of the foundation may include one
erosion mattress ( 3 m wide)
of the following:
underlain by an impermeable
excavation of the foundation and membrane (horizontal moisture
replacement with a low permeability barrier). This is aimed at shifting the
granular or non-swelling material; moisture fluctuation zone to be under
chemically treating the natural the extended apron, thus shielding
material (e.g. lime stabilisation); and the concrete apron slab from the edge
effects.
March 2010
9-14
Prediction of moisture infiltration under abutments and general bridge maintenance

sealed areas by numerical methods may be requirements would still need to be
used in estimating the required lateral resolved.
extent that needs to be provided by the
Bridges would not be a practical option for
flexible apron.
low height structures, but the actual height
(b) Structural Methods limit has not currently been determined, and
it may vary for different sites.
The structural options to control distress of
culvert bases are as follows: 9.2.7.7 Improved Construction
Practice
Improved Layout of Culverts
Consideration should be given to restricting
The risk of damage to culvert bases may in
construction practices which adversely
some circumstances be reduced by limiting
affect the moisture content of the soil. The
the size of banks of culverts. In wide
following practices should be excluded:
floodplains, it is considered that a number
of banks of culverts distributed across the placement of permeable fill behind
watercourse will result in a better hydraulic the culvert (either granular or cement
and structural solution. stabilised sand);
Other Structural Solutions opening a culvert base up for a
prolonged period when the moisture
The use of stiffened raft foundations (AS
content is low; and
2870) are technically proven solutions
widely used in the building industry. As not allowing adequate time for the
the culvert distress is commonly observed culvert base to reduce moisture
within the apron area of the slab, any content after a prolonged wet period.
stiffening needs only be confined to the
Supplementary specifications may be
apron slab. Swell pressures can be as much
required in such situations, and may require
as 200 kPa, i.e. much greater than the
specialist input from geotechnical and
applied pressure at the base of the slab
structural specialists within the
(typically up to 50 kPa). Each case has to
departments E&T Division.
be considered on its own merit.
Other Options - Bridges
Consideration should be given to using
9.2.8 Flap Gates (Tides and
Floods) 9
short span bridges founded on free standing Where the outlet to a culvert may be
piles extending to the stable material below submerged by tide or a flood from
the active zone. Due to the limited nature downstream sources, and where it is
of contact between the volumetrically necessary to prevent the flow of such
active soil and the foundation elements, i.e. waters into the culvert, it may be necessary
the free standing piles, limited upward to install flap gates.
thrusts are transmitted to the deck.
However, flap gates will generally cause a
Therefore, these foundation systems are less
higher head loss to occur. Therefore,
influenced by the movement of the ground
reference should be made to loss
and allow such designs to be optimised.
However, expansive soil issues with bridge
March 2010
9-15
coefficients as provided by the particularly when slab link box culverts

manufacturers. (SLBC) are used.
Where flap gates are required, it will be For large culverts, it is often possible to
necessary to ensure that only those culvert utilise link slabs to reduce costs. In these
types for which gates are available are situations, selection of an odd number of
selected. Obvious impacts on fish passage box culvert cells is preferred, though by no
must also be considered. means essential. An odd number of cells
should only be sought if no other design
Regular maintenance of flap gates is
criteria are compromised.
required to ensure their efficient operation.
This is especially important for locations
9.2.10 Reduction in Culvert Size
where there is significant debris or sediment
transport. If regular maintenance is New culvert installations must maintain the
unlikely, then flap gates may not be same size diameter pipe / box dimensions
appropriate. for its whole length.
In addition, if the culvert is expected to pass For culverts being extended:
large quantities of sand, then the outlet
a reduction in culvert size is not
should be raised above the downstream
permitted on the downstream side as
invert to avoid sediment blockage of the
the discontinuity between the
gate(s).
different pipe sections can catch
9.2.9 Multiple Barrels debris causing blockage which inturn
reduces the capacity of the culvert
When two or more barrels of pipes are laid and/or can cause failure of the
parallel, they should be separated by the culvert; and/or
dimensions as shown on the relevant
a reduction in culvert size is
standard drawing and within MRTS03
permitted on the upstream side
(TMR 2010c).
provided that the hydraulic capability
The spacing allows for thorough is not compromised.
compaction of the back-fill material which
This also applies for projects where the
9
is essential for haunch support and the
inflow to an existing culvert has been
prevention of settlements.
reduced and the culvert requires extension.
Multiple pipe culverts should always be
Where culverts require strengthening by
treated as an embankment installation when
insertion of a sleeve or similar, the internal
determining the class of pipe required from
dimensions / diameter must be maintained
the allowable height of cover. Even for
for the length of the culvert.
culverts installed in trench conditions, the
height of cover should be calculated for 9.2.11 Splay Pipes
embankment installation.
The use of splay pipe components to
For multiple cell culverts in a restricted
construct bends in culverts is not
natural waterway, box culverts can make
permitted.
better use of the width available,
March 2010
9-16
However, a relaxation of this requirement site including detailed survey of the site,
may be approved for individual cases site inspection data, and other site specific
within a project subject to the following information including environmental and
requirements: geotechnical reports.
Specific locations where it is A generalised approach to the design of the
proposed to use splay pipes to culvert follows.
construct bends in culverts, are to be
(a) Collate Site Data
reviewed and approved by the
departments design representative; Review survey, topographic information,
locality map, photographs, aerial
Culverts must conform to relevant
photographs and details from field visit to
departmental specifications;
determine / understand:
Bends to be constructed in large
catchment / waterway details
culverts only - for pipe diameter of
including natural constrictions,
1200 mm or greater using propriety
bends, low / high flow channel,
splay pipe units and for box culverts
vegetation, potential overflow to
with widths and heights of 1200 mm
other crossings etc;
or greater using a cast in-situ
chamber without access; upstream and downstream conditions
and details;
Bend angles are restricted to a total
or maximum 22.5 degree culvert location of any geotechnical issues;
deflection in the horizontal plane location of environmental constraints
only (grade of culvert must not or identification of environmental
change); issues;
Only one bend allowed in a single location of Private / Public Utility
culvert installation; and Plant (PUP) or other physical
The detailed design of any culvert constraints;
that includes a bend will require any stream or channel diversion
formal approval by departments issues;
Bridge Design Section / Structures
Branch located within the
Engineering & Technology Division.
any culvert skew requirements;
soils data;
9
existing and allowable stream flow
9.3 General Process for
details (depth, velocity, energy and
Culvert Design
so on) (refer Chapter 8);
This section describes an approach or any possible / identified inlet and
general process for the design of culverts. outlet erosion issues; and
Some of the work described in the
possible sediment / debris issues.
following sections may not be required for
each design of a culvert.
The design of a culvert commences with
assembling the data related to the drainage
March 2010
9-17
It is also essential to review: headwater that can be developed upstream

of the culvert.
recorded and observed flood data,
and local anecdotal data from (c) Determine Culvert Type and Location
residents or local Council.
Select a suitable culvert type (RCP, RCBC
design data for nearby structures; and etc) for site and locate the proposed culvert
along the best initial alignment and
studies by other authorities near the
determine the following:
site, including small dams, canals,
weirs, floodplains, storm drains. an initial trial culvert size and
configuration that fits (refer (b)
From this information, the designer can
above) and check cover requirements
then commence the design to determine the
for selected culvert type;
size and alignment of the culvert.
incorporate any environmental
(b) Determine Road / Channel Geometry
requirement such as fauna passage;
Where the road alignment crosses the
set an outlet invert level;
stream / channel, the designer needs to
determine / understand: based on the channel bed slope and
an initial slope for the culvert,
the grade height of the road over the
determine the inlet invert level;
crossing;
check that the inlet invert level is at
location of adjacent low points in the
or just below the natural bed level;
road alignment;
if the inlet level is well below the
height and width (location) of
natural bed level, assess the extent of
shoulders (both sides) considering
inlet works needed to avoid /
crossfall / superelevation application;
minimize siltation over time;
embankment or batter slopes (and
check / determine available space for
possibility of steepening the slopes if
possible ancillary erosion or
height of embankment over culvert is
environmental protection devices;
too high);
and
9 pavement thickness;
shape of channel (width of bed and
identify and document any possible
issues / limitations that may
bank slopes) including uniformity of necessitate a review of the culvert
shape over the reach where the design or its location.
culvert will be located; and
(d) Determine Tailwater Level
channel bed slope.
Calculate the tailwater level within
These parameters are required to determine the existing channel immediately
the maximum height, width and minimum downstream of culvert outlet.
length of the culvert. This allows the
(e) Undertake Hydraulic Design
designer to fit the culvert under road and
within the channel. The parameters also Determine / set the maximum
allow the determination of the height of allowable headwater, including
freeboard, for the design;
March 2010
9-18
Complete the hydraulic design of As the designer works through this step by
proposed culvert to determine step process, there will be some outcomes
headwater, control, outlet velocity that indicate that revisions to the proposed
Froude Number; and culvert need to be made.
Undertake several trials based around The designer needs make amendments to
the initial culvert size / configuration, the proposal and restart the geometric
including cost comparison, to select design at an appropriate point and continue
optimum design. the design with the amended culvert
proposal.
(f) Review Hydraulic Design Output.
The culvert design will not be able to be
Check if hydraulic design is
finalised until all related components of the
reasonable / realistic and if the flood
drainage infrastructure are defined by the
immunity requirements is being
relevant sections of in Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11
achieved;
and 12 are addressed.
Check generated headwater against
maximum allowable headwater; 9.4 Location of Culverts
Check outlet velocity against
In general, a culvert should be located to fit
permissible channel velocities;
the natural channel in line and grade as far
Check extent of any additional as is practical.
inundation due to afflux and review
The culvert should be designed to suit the
impacts to adjacent property; and
outlet conditions even if inlet conditions
Assess the likelihood of road have to be modified, e.g. a drop inlet to
overtopping or excessive / erosive reduce potential scouring velocities through
outlet velocities in an extreme the culvert.
rainfall event (how close is generated
High outlet velocities can cause erosion for
headwater to shoulder point / outlet
a significant distance downstream of an
velocity to maximum permissible).
outlet. Where high outlet velocities are
(g) Check Connections expected, appropriate dissipation measures
9
Can surface drains such as catch will be required.
drains and diversion drains be The natural skew in a channel should be
drained to the culvert inlet and/or adopted wherever possible, as a culvert on a
outlet (Refer Chapter 11); and different skew could cause progressive
Can underground drainage be drained bank erosion, possibly entering private
to the culvert inlet and/or outlet property. Protection of a bank at risk could
(Refer Chapter 11); be costly.
(h) Assess Mitigation Treatments In most cases, culvert locations are largely
predetermined by the intersection of a
Determine any inlet or outlet watercourse and an existing roadway.
protection devices to address However, where circumstances allow,
pollution or erosion control concerns. culverts should be located away from:
Erodible / unstable banks
March 2010
9-19
Meandering channel bends or banks; normal flow levels. This increase in level is
known as afflux and it is at its highest just
Critical or isolated aquatic habitat
upstream of the culvert entrance.
areas; and
The overall increase in water depth (afflux)
Isolated sections of remnant, valued,
generated by the culvert cannot exceed the
or protected riparian vegetation.
allowable headwater for the site.
Realigning short sections of an existing
The allowable headwater or Maximum HW
channel to fit the culvert alignment should
level for a culvert will usually be
be avoided.
determined by one or more of the following
9.5 Allowable Headwater conditions:
Increase in Upstream Water Levels: The
Culverts that are designed for hydraulic increase in upstream water levels should not
purposes only, are designed to pass the cause unacceptable damage or adverse
design discharge from one side of the road effects to adjacent properties. Existing
embankment to the other in a cost effective flooding of adjacent properties should be
manner in accordance with individual ascertained in field investigations or by
project requirements. design calculations.
The velocity of the water through the Upstream Freeboard: Where a road is
culvert is usually greater than the approach designed not to be overtopped during a set
velocity in the stream because the culvert ARI flood event, it is desirable to provide
presents a smaller cross sectional area of freeboard of at least 100 mm between the
flow than the stream. design upstream floodwater surface and the
As detailed in the previous chapter, the upstream road shoulder edge. Where this is
energy in water is measured as Head (m). not economically acceptable, pavement
When water flows through a culvert, design should make allowance for higher
several losses of energy occur: water levels, and the likely duration of
inundation.
Firstly as the flow accelerates into
the culvert (known as entrance loss); Outlet Velocity: In the event that both of
the above conditions permit a high
9 then there is friction loss along the

length of the barrel as water flows
against the culvert; and
headwater, the associated outlet velocity
may be unacceptably high. In this case, the
headwater may have to be reduced to limit
finally as the flow decelerates out of the outlet velocity to a level that does not
the culvert (known as exit loss). cause unacceptable scouring. This is
In order to pass the design discharge normally achieved by increasing the
through the culvert, extra energy within the waterway area of the culvert, however this
flow is required on the upstream side to is not always possible and therefore outlet
overcome these losses. This extra energy is protection, as shown in Figure 9.5 may
generated by damming the flow on the have to be designed.
upstream side of culvert / road formation
which raises the water level (increases the
height of water or head), above that of
March 2010
9-20
For culverts used as walkways and

bikeways the minimum
recommended invert level is equal to
the level / height of ARI 2 year flood
event. For the minimum
recommended cell height and widths,
refer to the departments Road
Planning and Design Manual (TMR
2010a).
Figure 9.5 - Box Culverts with Riprap 9.7 Requirements for

Fauna Passage
9.6 Preliminary Selection
of Culvert Size 9.7.1 Considerations for Fish
Passage
Not withstanding the minimum culvert size
requirements as specified in Section 9.2.4, Culverts are considered as a waterway
the considerations for the preliminary barrier and can limit fish movement along
selection of culvert size are: the waterway. Defined waterways require a
culvert design that supports fish passage.
A culvert flowing full makes most
Definitions and key requirements are
use of the waterway opening
provided in Section 2.5.2.6.
available. Where outlet control is
likely, the culvert opening height Chapter 7 provides an understanding of and
should desirably be not greater than reasons for fish movement.
1.25 times the depth of the tailwater
9.7.2 Culvert Specifications for
in the unrestricted channel at the job
Fish Passage
site. This will help to ensure that the
culvert flows full. Culverts will
The department is currently working with
generally not flow full if operating
Queensland Fisheries to develop
under inlet control.
requirements and self-assessable codes for
The larger the waterway opening is,
the less likely it will be blocked by
debris. An assessment of the
the design of culverts that support fish
passage, however the guidance provided in
this section should assist until updated
9
minimum culvert size for debris information can be provided.
should take precedence over any
To allow fish to swim upstream through a
requirement for the culvert to flow
culvert, the culvert invert level, slope, and
full.
velocity may have to satisfy the following
The cover requirements for various specifications.
culvert types are discussed in Section
Preferred Culvert Type: The minimum,
9.2.2.
culvert for fish passage is a 1200 x 900 mm
Environmental considerations such as box culvert (preferred) or a 1800mm pipe.
those nominated in Chapter 7 should
Natural Watercourse Bed: Where
be taken into account.
practicable, the bed of the culvert should
March 2010
9-21
reproduce the natural conditions of the cobbles or boulders over the floor up to the
watercourse bed, and ideally be recessed design level.
below natural bed levels.
However, the roughness coefficient of
Culvert Floor: The floor of the culvert dumped rock is much higher than that of a
should be below natural bed levels to avoid concrete floor and should be taken into
the need for fish to jump over an account during the design process. For
obstruction. As depressed culvert floors Mannings roughness coefficients,
may silt up over time, especially with reference may be made to Tables 9.4.3(a),
undue lowering of the floor, an invert level 9.4.3(b) and Figure 9.4.3.
about 100 mm below natural surface levels
Low Flow Channel: Where possible, the
is considered appropriate with tapers to
low flow channel should satisfy the
natural surface level.
following conditions:
Recessed Floors: Some fishway guidelines
Maximum flow velocity 1 m/s;
recommend that culverts should be recessed
into the natural bed by at least 20% of their Maximum flow velocity of 0.3 m/s at
cell height (increases the height of culvert a depth of 0.2 to 0.5 m;
over hydraulic requirements). The culvert Where practicable, a minimum flow
is then backfilled with bed material won depth of 0.2 to 0.5 m; and
from the site, to the same gradient / levels
Absence of areas of large scale
of the natural bed prior to construction.
turbulence (relative to flow depth),
This should be considered on a site by site
i.e. whirlpools / eddies.
basis based on current best practice.
However, the above flow conditions are
Floor Slope: Generally, the slope of the
usually difficult to achieve, especially if the
floor of the culvert should not exceed 1% in
culvert cannot be recessed below natural
order to limit velocity increases to flows
bed elevations. In such cases, the next
through culvert.
preferred option is to size the culvert flow
Flow Velocities: As fish need a minimum area such that there is minimal change in
water depth of 0.2 to 0.5 m to ensure their channel flow area at the culvert.
passage through the culvert, and can only
9
To assist in the development of suitable low
swim against relatively low flow velocities,
flow conditions and to assist in the control
the velocity through the culvert during
of sediment flow, an inlet weir can be
periods of migration should not exceed 0.3
formed. Inlet weirs are designed to direct
m/s at a water depth of 0.5 m.
all base flows to one wet cell as shown in
To achieve this, it may be necessary to Figure 9.7.2.
locate an additional culvert at the shallower
The typical height of the weir that is placed
edge of a stream where natural velocities
in front of the dry cells is 0.3 to 0.5 m.
are lower, or to install a low flow channel.
For hydraulic reasons, the weir needs to be
Floor Surfacing: If necessary, roughening located at least four times the height of the
of the floor of the culvert to achieve this weir away from the culvert entrance.
velocity may be necessary by lowering the
Light Conditions: When fish passage is an
floor even further than 100 mm and placing
issue, light should be encouraged to enter
March 2010
9-22
the culvert, or in the case of a multi-cell If the ledge is placed on just one side of a
culvert, into the expected migration cell(s). waterway, then it is important for this side
In multi-lane roads, stormwater drop inlets to be consistent with the side of the
can be installed into the median strip to waterway that is the dominant movement
allow the entry of light. corridor. In some cases it may be necessary
for a ledge to be placed on both sides of the
Current best practice guidelines suggest that
low flow channel.
additional lighting is recommended when
the culvert is longer than 14 m (depending The ledge must extend from upstream bank
on culvert height). to downstream bank, including the area
along the wing walls, thus providing a
Further guidance and information regrading
continuous dry path.
requirements for culverts and fish passage
can be obtained from Queensland Fisheries
website.
9.7.3 Considerations for Table 9.7.3 - Minimum Desirable Culvert

Cell Height for Terrestrial Passage
Terrestrial Passage
Size and/or Type of Minimum
A guide to the appropriate culvert size to Small mammals 0.5m
accommodate terrestrial passage is provided
in Table 9.7.3. Medium mammals 0.5m
To allow for terrestrial passage through a Large mammals 1.2m

single cell culvert, a raised ledge may need Semi-arboreal (e.g. Koala, >1.2m
to be formed as shown in Figure 9.7.3. The
Microchiropteran bats >1.2m
ledge may consist of a 0.3 to 0.5 m wide,
stone pitched path elevated at least 100 mm Reptiles 0.5m
above the base flow water level.
The ledge must extend from upstream bank
to downstream bank, including the area
along the wing walls, thus providing a
9
continuous dry path.
March 2010
9-23
Source: Catchments & Creeks Pty Ltd

Figure 9.7.2 - Schematic Showing Inlet Weir Redirecting all Base Flows to One Wet Cell.
March 2010
9-24
Low flow channel: In some cases, in order

to satisfy both aquatic and terrestrial
passage requirements, it may be desirable to
construct a low flow channel into the base
slab rather than constructing a raised ledge.
Fencing: Fencing, such as koala-proof
fencing, as shown in Figure 9.7.4(a), or
wildlife exclusion fencing, can be used to
direct animals to the culvert to avoid
animals moving over the road.
For guidelines on the use and design of
fauna control fencing, refer to the
departments Fauna Sensitive Road Design
(2000).
Habitat: As a general rule, the cells of a
culvert should not be modified to provide or
promote habitat of birds and terrestrial
Figure 9.7.3 - Dry Passageway in Box animals. The reason for this is that these
Culvert habitats are not natural and are likely to be
destroyed during flood events.
9.7.4 Culvert Features for

Fauna Passage
Other features associated with terrestrial

passage are discussed below. The value
and hence need for each of these features
must be assessed on a site by site basis.
Separate wet and dry cells: Most culvert
designs will have requirements for some
degree of terrestrial or aquatic movement.
Thus most multi-cell culverts will require
9
both wet and dry cells. Figure 9.7.4(a) - Koala Fencing
Separate wet and dry cell can be formed by

placing individual cells at different invert Lizard Run: If for any reason a dry ledge
levels. This may be achieved by having the or dry cell cannot be constructed, then a
two outside cells raised at least 100 mm lizard run may be considered.
above normal water level, or lowering just
Lizard runs are approximately 100 mm
one central cell below normal water level.
wide strips of timber bolted to the waterway
Dry cells can also have a duel use as embankment side of a culvert cell. They
pedestrian tunnels and bikeways. are introduced to a culvert to enable smaller
March 2010
9-25
reptiles to move through the culvert at an other suitable material to allow for the
elevated height. movement of fauna such as lizards.
Lizard runs should be located Any increase in culvert wall roughness
approximately 300 mm below the obvert of must be taken into account in the hydraulic
the cell and must extend from ground level analysis when designing the culvert.
at the upstream wing wall, through the However, it is noted that in a typical road
culvert to ground level at the downstream culvert, sidewall friction only represents
wing wall (Figures 9.7.4(b) and 9.7.4(c)). around 12% of the total head loss.
Side Wall Roughness: As an alternative to
constructing a lizard run, the culvert cell
wall adjacent to the watercourse bank could
be roughened with texture paint, grout or

Figure 9.7.4(b) - Lizard Runs in Culvert (Cell View)

Figure 9.7.4(c) - Lizard Runs in Culvert (General Arrangement)
March 2010
9-26
Street Lighting: Many animals move only outlet channel must allow the culvert to
at night. To assist in the passage of such completely drain after a storm event.
animals, street lighting adjacent to culverts
The culvert must be at least 2.4 m in height
should be fitted with metal shields to
to allow a person on horseback to be able to
prevent the lighting of the culvert entry and
ride through the culvert (they can bend low
exit.
in the saddle).
In some circumstances it may be desirable
For cattle to enter a stock underpass,
to paint the concrete wing walls and apron
sufficient daylight from the other side needs
in a dark colour (dark green) to minimise
to be seen by the cattle, otherwise they will
the reflection of light.
baulk and not enter. Suggested number and
Lighting: Many terrestrial animals will not width of cells is 3 x 2.4 m minimum for
enter a dark culvert, so some means of culvert up to 15 m in length.
lighting inside the culvert is important. For
example, this lighting could be in the form 9.8 Selection of Culvert
of a break in the median for a major road. Type
Vegetation: The provision of vegetation at Further to Section 2.3.5, the selection of the
the entrance and exit of a culvert is a key most appropriate type of culvert is
determining factor as to whether native dependent on a range of factors including
fauna will use the culvert. economics, site conditions, and
Bank vegetation should be extended up to environmental considerations.
the edge of the culvert. This is especially Box culverts are generally used where:
important if a lizard run or fauna path
has been installed. Insufficient embankment depth or
cover for pipes exists;
In critical flood control regions, this bank
vegetation may need to consist entirely of Where channel is narrow and it
flexible (non-woody) species that provide would be difficult to fit a pipe
minimal hydraulic resistance (i.e. no culvert; or
shrubs). Fauna passage is required.
9.7.5 Stock Underpass
Stock underpasses (also known as cattle

In multi-cell construction, slab linked box
culverts (SLBC) are often an economically
choice.
9
creeps) are primarily designed for the Historically, whilst the majority of culverts
purpose of allowing cattle to be driven installed consist of concrete pipes or box
under road formations and therefore should culverts, the installation of corrugated metal
remain dry most of the time. pipes, pipe-arch or arches, may be
If the culvert is to also be used to convey appropriate and economic in some
water under the road during storm events, situations.
channels leading to and away from the
culvert must have sufficiently flattened side
slopes to allow easy passage for cattle. The
March 2010
9-27
Table 9.8 - Culvert Types for Different Conditions

Exposure Concrete Concrete Concrete Steel Steel Aluminium
condition Box Box Pipes Corrugated Helical Helical
Culverts Culverts Arch1&2 Pipe1&2 Pipe2
(Normal (Saltwater
cover) Cover)
Saltwater
Aggressive soil
(e.g. Low pH, high

chloride high
sulphate)
Invert in fresh
water for N/A Not
prolonged periods economic
Typical condition
(i.e. none of N/A Not
above) economic
1 Refer Appendix C, AS/NZS 2041 1998 Buried Corrugated Steel Pipes

2
Refer Section 9.2.6.1 for structural requirements
Metal culverts have some advantages in

9.9 Typical Culvert
lower cost and ease of transport and
Operating Conditions
installation. However, disadvantages such
as corrosion due to construction damage, Many parameters influence the flow pattern
high compaction standards and higher cover of culverts. Laboratory tests and field
requirements mean that unless there are observations show culvert performance is
large financial savings, or other
9
governed by whether the culvert is
construction restraints, other more robust operating under:
and more durable materials should be used.
Inlet control; or
Table 9.8 provides guidance in the selection
of the most appropriate culvert type for Outlet control.
different exposure conditions. The hydraulic capacity of the culvert may
Reference should also be made to Standard vary considerably depending on the type of
Drawing No 1359 (QDMR 2009b) for control.
installation requirements, cover, spacing Figure 9.9 shows eight typical conditions
and details for H2 and HS3 support under which culverts may operate.
conditions (refer Section 9.2.6.4).
Additional details are discussed below.
March 2010
9-28
Source: Bureau of Public Roads (1965)
Figure 9.9 - Typical Conditions under which Standard Culverts Operate
March 2010
9-29
However, a study of this figure will reveal losses. However, inlet edge geometry can
that the prediction of inlet or outlet control still affect the capacity.
is not precise and the standard procedure
In Figure 9.9, Types 1, 2, 6 and 7 have
for calculations is to assume each in turn
outlet control. A tailwater depth equal to
with the most conservative answer adopted
80% or more of the height of the culvert
for design.
barrel / cell will usually indicate outlet
Typically, the more conservative answer is control, except in rolling or mountainous
that which causes the highest headwater country with the culvert on natural surface
level for a given flow and this in turn slopes.
implies a submerged inlet type (HW >
1.2D). Submerged inlets usually have more 9.10 Hydraulic Calculations
driving head which helps improve culvert
capacity / performance, which is preferable. The hydraulic design of culverts must be
undertaken using the CULVERT program
9.9.1 Inlet Control Conditions as discussed in Section 1.2.2.5.
The following design methodology (this
For inlet control, the capacity of the culvert
section) and design procedure (Section
barrel is greater than that of the inlet.
9.11) are based on the use of nomographs
Hence, culvert capacity is dictated by
and form the basis of the CULVERT
conditions at the inlet.
program.
The parameters which determine the
The methodology and procedure not only
discharge under inlet control are the cross
provides an understanding of the hydraulic
sectional area of the culvert barrel, the inlet
design of culverts but also an alternate,
geometry and the depth of headwater or
manual method for the design or checking
ponding at the culvert entrance.
of culverts.
In inlet control the losses from the
Better methods of culvert design, including
roughness and length of the culvert barrel
the use of formula, are available however
and outlet conditions (including depth of
further investigation by the department is
tailwater) are not factors in determining
required before adoption of these methods.
culvert capacity.
9 In Figure 9.9, Types 3, 4, 5 and 8 are

operating under inlet control.
The content of this section and Section 9.11
largely aligns with Austroads Guide to
Road Design; Part 5: Drainage Design
9.9.2 Outlet Control Conditions (2008).
With outlet control the culvert flow is 9.10.1 Control at Inlet

restricted to the discharge which can pass
When the capacity of the culvert barrel is
through the conduit for a given level of
greater than that of the inlet, the culvert is
water in the outlet channel (tailwater level).
subject to inlet control. Then the important
The slope, cross-sectional area, roughness
factors are the cross-sectional area of the
and length of the culvert barrel have to be
culvert barrel, the depth of headwater or
considered as these losses exceed the inlet
ponding at the entrance and the entrance
conditions, including the entrance type,
March 2010
9-30
presence and angle of headwalls and height of the culvert barrel / cell will
wingwalls, and the projection of the culvert usually indicate outlet control, except in
into the headwater. rolling or mountainous country with the
culvert on natural surface slopes. However,
For one dimensional flow, the relationship
a check of the design assuming inlet control
between the discharge and the upstream
is such an easy process that it forms part of
energy can be computed by an iterative
standard design procedure.
process or by the use of nomographs.
Culverts flowing with outlet control can
Inlet control can occur with the inlet
flow with the culvert barrel full or with the
submerged and the outlet not submerged.
barrel part-full for all of the culvert length.
Under these conditions, the flow contracts
With outlet control, and both the inlet and
to a supercritical jet immediately
the outlet submerged the culvert flows full
downstream from the inlet. When the
and under pressure. The culvert, also, can
tailwater depth exceeds critical depth, dc
flow full over part of its length with part-
and the culvert is laid on a steep grade, flow
full flow at the outlet. The point at which
remains supercritical in the barrel and a
the water surface breaks away from the
hydraulic jump will form near the outlet. If
barrel obvert depends on the tailwater depth
the culvert is laid on a slope less than
and culvert grade, and can be determined by
critical, then a hydraulic jump will form in
using flow profile calculations.
the barrel.
If the culvert is laid at a flat grade, outlet
When the culvert flows under inlet control,
control can occur with both inlet and outlet
the roughness and length of the culvert
not submerged, and part-full flow
barrel and the outlet conditions (including
throughout the culvert length will be
the depth of tailwater) are not factors in
flowing under subcritical conditions.
determining culvert capacity. An increase
in the slope of the culvert reduces Variations of these main types can occur,
headwater only to a small degree, and can depending on the relative value of critical
normally be neglected for conventional slope, normal depth, culvert height and
culverts flowing under inlet control. tailwater depth. While the potential flow
conditions shown in Figure 9.10.2(a) are
9
9.10.2 Control at Outlet the most common for simple culverts,
different flow conditions are possible where
With outlet control the culvert flow is
complex culvert structures are required and
restricted to the discharge which can pass
advice should be obtained from Director
through the conduit for a given level of
(Hydraulics), Hydraulics Section,
water in the outlet channel (tailwater level).
Engineering & Technology Division for
The slope, cross-sectional area, roughness
further guidance.
and length of the culvert barrel have to be
considered as these losses exceed the inlet Flow under outlet control can be calculated
losses. However, inlet edge geometry can from the formulae below, the parameters
still affect the capacity. for which are illustrated in Figure 9.10.2(a).
The total head (H) required to convey water
In general the control will be at the outlet if
through a culvert flowing under outlet
the culvert slope is less than critical. A
control is determined by:
tailwater depth equal to 80% or more of the
March 2010
9-31
H Hv He Hf and
Where: V = mean velocity of flow in the
culvert barrel (m/s);
Hv = velocity head (m)
g = acceleration due to gravity
V2
(assume 9.81 m/s);
2g
ke = entrance loss coefficient (refer
He = entrance loss (m) Table 9.10.2;
V2 n = Mannings roughness coefficient;
ke
2g
L = length of culvert barrel (m); and
Hf = friction loss (m)
R = hydraulic radius (m).
19.6n 2 L V 2

R 1.33 2g
2
V1 2
2g V
2g WS = water surface
SSo = slope of culvert
W.S He
.
Energy Lin
e Hf
HW Hydraulic G H
V1 h1 rade Line
Hv W.S
D .
S
ho2
LS
LSo dhcc DATUM
Source : Austroads (1994)

Figure 9.10.2(a) Hydraulics of Culvert Flowing Full under Outlet Control
9
HW H
S
LS
LSo dhcc TW
ho = Greater of hdc c+
+DD and TW
2
Source : Austroads (1994)

Figure 9.10.2(b) - Determination of Adopted Tailwater (ho)
March 2010
9-32
Table 9.10.2 - Culvert Entry Loss Coefficient

Type of Structure and Design of Entrance Coefficient ke
Concrete / Fibre reinforced / Poly Pipe
Projecting from fill, socket end 0.2
Projecting from fill, square cut end 0.5
Headwall, with or without wingwalls:
Socket end 0.2
Rounded edge (radius = D/12) 0.2
Square edge 0.5
End section conforming to fill slope (precast end unit) 0.5
Mitred / cut to conform to fill slope (field cut) 0.7
Reinforced Concrete Box
Headwall parallel to embankment (no wingwalls):
Rounded on 3 edges (radius of 1/12 cell dimension) 0.2
Square on 3 edges 0.5
Wingwalls at 30 to 75 to cell:
Crown edge rounded (radius of 1/12 cell dimension) 0.2
Crown edge square 0.4
Wingwalls at 10 to 30 to cell: square edged at crown 0.5
Wingwalls parallel (extension of sides) square edged at crown 0.7
Corrugated Metal Pipe
Headwall rounded edge 0.2
Headwall or headwall and wingwalls: square edged 0.5
End section conforming to fill slope (manufacturer end unit) 0.5
Mitred / cut to conform to fill slope 0.7
Projecting from fill (no headwall) 0.9
Notes:
1. The effect of wing walls reduces with multi-cell culverts.
2. For 3 - 6 cell culverts, assume entrance loss for wing walls 10 to 25 to barrel.
3. For culverts with more than 6 cells, assume wing walls parallel (extension of sides),
regardless of actual wing walls.
Sources: Bureau of Public Roads (1965); Hydraulic Design Manual. CPAA (1991); Handbook of Steel Drainage
& Highway Construction Products. American Iron and Steel Institute (1994).
Substituting in the first equation above and

simplifying:
hydraulic grade line at the outlet and the
energy line at the inlet. Since the velocity
9
head in the entrance pool usually is small
19.6n 2 L V 2
H (1 k e ) when ponded conditions occur (V2/2g 0),
R 1.33 2g
the water surface of headwater pool
This equation can be solved for H by the elevation can be assumed to equal the
use of the full flow nomographs in elevation of the energy line.
Appendix 9A which covers the common Headwater depth under outlet control is
culvert types. calculated according to the equation:
From the development of this energy HW H h0 LS 0
equation and Figure 9.10.2(b), H is the
difference between the elevation of the
March 2010
9-33
Where: Special culverts are those that do not fit

the normal design procedure and these must
ho = adopted tailwater depth (m);
be referred to Director (Hydraulics),
L = length of culvert (m); and Hydraulics Section, Engineering &
So = slope of culvert barrel (m/m). Technology Division for further guidance.
The various components of this equation The designer should be familiar with all the
are illustrated in Figure 9.10.2(b). equations in the previous sections before
using these procedures. Following the
The tailwater level (ho) to be adopted is TW
design method without an understanding of
if TW > D, otherwise the greater of:
culvert hydraulics can result in an
dc D inadequate, unsafe or costly structure.
TW, or
2 Because of the difficulty in determining
Where: whether a culvert will operate under inlet or
outlet control, the standard procedure for
dc = critical depth (m); and
calculating the headwater level is to check
D = diameter or height of culvert both inlet and outlet control cases and adopt
(m). the scenario that results in the higher
headwater level.
9.10.3 Determination of Tailwater
9.11.1 Hydraulic Design
The tailwater level is an important input to
the culvert design process. Tailwater level The standard culvert design procedure is
(TW) can be calculated using the method illustrated in the flow chart in Figure 9.11
described in Section 8.7.2. and the following sub-sections align with
this figure.
9.11 Design Procedure
For this manual design method, calculations
The following procedure for standard should be recorded on a form similar to the
culverts will be acceptable for all but a very one shown in Appendix 9B. The following
small percentage of culverts designed for procedure provides direction in completing
departmental projects. this form.
9 The procedure does not address the

unsteady flow hydraulic effect of changing
storage / ponding upstream caused by the
culvert / road embankment, which can
modify the discharge through the culvert
when flows are changing significantly.
March 2010
9-34
HYDRAULIC DESIGN PROCESS FOR CULVERTS
Collect Design Data

- Required flood immunity (ARI)
- Design discharge (Q) (also consider
A
extreme events).
- Tailwater height (TW).
1 - Shoulder height and freeboard

requirements.
- Maximum / allowable headwater (AHW). Determine Controlling Headwater
- Proposed culvert slope (So).
- Proposed culvert length (L).
- Inlet / outlet invert heights.
6 Is HWi < HWo?
If yes - HWo controls - go to step 7.
No
- Maximum allowable velocity (Vmax). If no - HWi controls - go to step 8.
Select a Trial Culvert

Determine an initial trial culvert waterway
area using A=Q/Vmax Outlet Velocity Outlet Control
- If Vmax is unknown, use Vmax = 2.0 - 2.5
2
m/s.
Use area (A) to determine initial trial
7 Calculate outlet velocity using Vo=Q/A.
Where A is depth of flow based on D, dc or

culvert(s). TW as appropriate.
- Height of culvert (D) should be approx.
TW.
- Size and fit culvert to channel / road.
Outlet Velocity Inlet Control

Design Discharge for Trials Calculate outlet velocity using Vo=Q/A.
For culverts, divide design discharge Q by
number of cells. 8 Use appropriate nomograph to determine
3 For box culverts, a ratio (Q/B) is also
required. Divide Q per cell by box width
part full area for pipes and for boxes, use
Mannings to determine normal depth.
(B).
Outlet Flow Energy (Froudes Number)

Determine Inlet Control Headwater Depth
Use appropriate nomograph to determine
HW/D.
Now determine HWi.
9 Determine Fr for flow at outlet.
Compare to Fr for channel is there a

YES
4 Check if HWi, > AHW?
- If yes, return to step 2 and select a larger
hydraulic jump?
culvert.
- If no go to step 5.
Design Check
If Vo < Vmax then OK, if not, check that
Determine Outlet Control Headwater
Depth
Select entrance loss coefficient ke.
10 outlet protection can be provided.
If an alternative culvert configuration is to

Use appropriate nomograph to determine be elevated return to step 2.
H.
Use appropriate nomograph for pipes /
formula for boxes to determine dc.
Determine (dc + D). A waterway area of culvert
AHW allowable headwater level at inlet (m)
YES
5 Is TW > D at the outlet?
- If yes, use h0 = TW.
- If no, h0 is the larger of TW and (dc +
B
D
width of culvert (m)
diameter (pipe) / height (box) of culvert (m)
9
D). dc critical depth of flow in culvert (m)
Fr Froudes Number
Determine length by slope, LSo. HWi generated headwater depth at inlet by Inlet control (m)
Determine HW0 = H + h0 LS0 HWo generated headwater depth at inlet by Outlet control (m)
h0 calculated head at the outlet of the culvert over the
Check if HW0 > AHW? invert (m)
- If yes, return to step 2 and select a larger
culvert. ke entrance loss coefficient
- If no go to step 6. L length of culvert (m)
Q design discharge through culvert (m3/s)
S0 slope of culvert
TW tailwater depth at outlet (m)
A Vmax
V0
maximum average velocity in natural channel (m/s)
calculated outlet velocity (m/s)
Figure 9.11 - Culvert Design Flow Chart
March 2010
9-35
9.11.1.1 Collect Design Data allowable afflux to limit flooding level

impacts on upstream development), then the
Further to Section 9.3, the following data is
initial trial culvert area may be estimated
to be collected / determined, and then
using the following formula:
recorded in the top sections of the design
form: Q
A
Required flood immunity (ARI); 3.6 H 0.5
Design discharge (Q) and extreme Now, choose culvert material, shape (pipe
event discharge (if reqd) (refer or box) and entrance type, allowing for
Chapter 5); minimum and maximum allowable cover
heights over the culvert.
Tailwater height (TW) for each
discharge flow (refer Chapter 8); Select a culvert trial size / configuration
using the waterway area determined above.
Road shoulder height and any For example, the initial trial culvert
freeboard requirements; waterway area may have been determined
Maximum / allowable headwater as 1.25 m2. Review of product guides show
height (AHW) (refer Section 9.5); that a single barrel 900RCP has a nominal
diameter of 0.9 m and a waterway area of
Proposed culvert slope (So);
0.64 m2. Two barrels of 900RCPs would
Proposed culvert length (L); have a waterway area of 1.27 m2, which is
Inlet / outlet invert heights; and slightly larger than required waterway area
and therefore suitable as an initial trial.
Maximum allowable stream velocity
(Vmax) for outlet channel (refer If possible, also select culvert size such that
Section 9.2.5). the obvert of the outlet is at or just below
the tailwater level. This ensures the
9.11.1.2 Select a Trial Culvert probability of the culvert running full,
To select an initial trial culvert or culverts, which is usually desirable. This is not
first determine an initial trial culvert always practicable in wide shallow flood
waterway area (A) using: plains, or in steep country. If the trial size
is too large because of limited embankment
9 Where:
AQ
Vmax height or availability of size, multiple
culverts may be used by dividing the
discharge equally between the number of
Q = design discharge (m3/s); and cells used.
Vmax = maximum allowable outlet In locations where fauna passage is an

velocity (m/s). issue, compare trial culvert size with the
minimum fauna requirements.
Maximum allowable outlet velocity should
be based on Section 9.2.5 or if no data is Several initial trial culverts of different size
available, assume an outlet velocity of 2.0 / configuration may be selected to start
to 2.5 m/s depending on channel conditions. design process.
Alternatively, if the allowable head loss (H)

through the culvert is known (from the
March 2010
9-36
9.11.1.3 Design Discharge for Headwater under inlet control conditions

Trials (HWi) is found by multiplying HW/D by the
height of culvert, D.
Where a single barrel culvert is not
sufficient, multiple barrels or cells will be Now check HWi against AHW and if HWi is
required and these configurations constitute greater (or much less) than AHW, try
a parallel system. another size until HWi is acceptable for inlet
control before computing headwater for
Provided that all barrels of a multi-cell
outlet control.
culvert are the same type, size and
roughness (equal conveyance), and also 9.11.1.5 Determine Outlet
have the same invert levels / bed slope, Control Headwater Depth
flow will distribute evenly.
Several steps are required to determine the
Design nomographs as shown in Appendix headwater under outlet control conditions
9A, are based on a single barrel installation, (HWo).
therefore divide design discharge (Q) by
Firstly, determine the entrance loss
number of barrels for trial culvert.
coefficient, ke from Table 9.10.2.
For boxes, a ratio (Q/B) is also required.
Now calculate the losses through the
This ratio is determined by dividing Q per
culvert, H using the outlet control
cell by the nominal box width (B).
nomographs, Figure 9A.5 to Figure 9A.10.
Any proposed, multi-cell culvert that does In using these nomographs, some
not have all cells the same will require interpolation can be used for ke and L.
specialist advice / assistance as the
The next step is to determine the critical
methodology presented in this manual does
depth (dc) for the culvert. For pipe culverts,
not allow for these type of configurations.
use nomographs as shown in Figures 9A-13
These culverts must be referred to Director
to 9A-15 and for box culverts, use the
(Hydraulics), Hydraulics Section,
formula:
Engineering & Technology Division or
2
d c 0.467 Q
suitably pre-qualified design consultant. 3
9.11.1.4 Determine Inlet Control B

Headwater Depth
Using the trial culvert(s) from previous
Q in this formula is Q per cell.
exceeds D then take dc as D.
If dc
9
section, find the HW/D value by use of the Now calculate (dc + D)/2.
appropriate inlet control nomograph (Figure
Tailwater (TW), as gathered in Section
9A.1 to Figure 9A.4). In this case, tailwater
9.11.1.1, is required for determination of
conditions are to be neglected. Three lines
the next variable.
are presented in the nomographs for HW/D
and the designer needs to select the The next step is to establish the adopted
appropriate line based on: tailwater (ho) for design. Determine if TW
> D:
entrance type for pipe culverts; or
If yes, ho = TW;
wingwall flare angle for box culverts.
If no, ho = the larger of TW and (dc +
D)/2.
March 2010
9-37
Now, multiply the proposed culvert length a different culvert size / configuration,
(L) and slope (So), as gathered in Section where D TW.
9.11.1.1, to calculate LSo.
Sometimes, calculations show HWi and
Headwater under outlet control conditions HWo to be equal or nearly equal. In this
(HWo) is calculate using: instance, it is not clear whether or not the
HW0 H h0 LS 0 culvert will perform under inlet control or
outlet condition. In reality, the culvert
Now check HWo against AHW and if HWo could also operate under both conditions
is greater than AHW, try another size until (swap from one to the other) during the
both HWi and HWo are acceptable (< AHW). same rainfall event. Therefore, outlet
velocity calculations should be done for
9.11.1.6 Determine the
both Inlet Control and Outlet Control
Controlling Headwater
conditions with the higher velocity (and
Compare the values of HWi and HWo. The associated control condition) being adopted.
higher headwater governs and indicates the
9.11.1.7 Outlet Velocity Outlet
flow control existing under the given
Control
conditions for the trial size selected.
The average outlet velocity for all culvert
If HWi > HWo the culvert is under
types can be calculated using:
inlet control and Controlling HW =
HWi. Vo Q
A
If HWi < HWo the culvert is under
outlet control and Controlling HW = Where:
HWo. Q = design discharge per culvert
The controlling headway for trial should be barrel / cell (m3/s); and
clearly shown in design workings (design A = cross sectional area of flow from
form). culvert barrel / cell (m2).
There are now two checks that should be The cross-sectional area of flow (A)
undertaken before completing trial design: depends on the flow depth at the outlet.
9
(a) If controlling HW is less than 1.2D, Flow depth will be one of the following:
then the culvert is most likely not
critical depth (dc) if the tailwater is
operating with a submerged inlet and
below critical depth;
therefore may not be operating
efficiently. Design should be revised tailwater depth (TW) if the tailwater
using a different (slightly smaller) is between critical depth and the top
culvert size / configuration. of the barrel; or
(b) If controlling HW is less than 0.75D the height of the barrel (D) if the
and the culvert is under outlet control, tailwater is above the top of the
then the culvert may be flowing only barrel.
part-full and using (dc+D)/2 to Refer Figure 9.11.1.7(a) for guidance in
calculate ho may not be giving accurate determining flow area for box culverts.
results. Design should be revised using
March 2010
9-38
9.11.1.8 Outlet Velocity Inlet

Control
The average outlet velocity for all culvert
types can be calculated using:
Vo Q
A
Where:
Figure 9.11.1.7(a) Flow Area for Box Q = design discharge per culvert
Culverts
barrel / cell (m3/s); and
A = cross sectional area of flow from
Determination of flow area for pipes is a culvert barrel / cell (m2).
little more difficult. The area can be
The cross-sectional area of flow (A)
determined using a CADD package such as
depends on the flow depth at the outlet
AutoCAD or calculated using:
which can be approximated by the normal
Area R 2 when y = D depth of open-channel flow in the barrel,
computed by Mannings equation for the
or
discharge flow, barrel size, roughness and
Area R 2 1 R 2 sin slope of culvert selected.
2
For Pipe Culverts
Where:
For a pipe culvert, the culvert will not be
R = internal radius of pipe (m); and
flowing full at the outlet when under inlet
= angle in radians control, meaning only a part of the full
Figure 9.11.1.7(b) provides guidance in waterway area will be used. To determine
determining flow area for pipes. this Part Area, the designer needs to firstly
establish the relationship between Full
Flow (Qf) and Part Flow (Qp) for the
culvert trial where:
9
Part Flow (Qp) is the design
discharge per cell; and
Full Flow (Qf) capacity of the trial
culvert, and its velocity, can be
determined using the Figure 9A-11.
Now determine the ratio Qp / Qf.
Using this ratio and Figure 9A-12,
determine the percentage factors for
velocity (Vo), depth of flow (y), area of flow
Figure 9.11.1.7(b) Flow Area for Pipe
Culverts (A) and hydraulic radius (R).
March 2010
9-39
Figure 9A-12 is used as follows:

Step 1 - Plot Qp / Qf. ratio on x-axis.
Step 2 - Draw a line up to Discharge
line.
Step 3 - Draw a line left and right to
both edges (the left edge being the y-
axis).
Step 4 Read off % Depth of Flow
Figure 9.11.1.7(c) Full Flow / Part Flow
from y-axis. Table
Step 5 Drop lines to x-axis from
each intersect between horizontal line
drawn in Step 3 and the Velocity, For Box Culverts
Area and Hydraulic Radius curves. As for a pipe culvert, a box culvert will not
Step 6 Read of % Values from x- be flowing full at the outlet when under
axis for each of these hydraulic inlet control. To determine the normal flow
elements. conditions, depth (y) and velocity (Vo), use
Mannings Equation to develop a Modified
Now draw a table as shown in Figure Stage-Discharge Curve for the culvert cell
9.11.1.7(c) and enter values as follows: (Refer Chapter 8).
A is Qf Using the Modified Stage-Discharge Curve,
B is Qp the flow depth (y) and outlet velocity (Vo)
can be read directly.
C is outlet velocity determined using
Figure 9A-11 9.11.1.9 Outlet Flow Energy
D is nominal diameter of pipe To complete the hydraulic calculations for a
trial culvert, the designer must determine
E is waterway area of pipe
Froudes Number (Fr) for the flow at the
F is hydraulic radius of pipe when outlet (refer Chapter 8). This is important
9
flowing full as the designer can check this against
G are the hydraulic element values Froudes Number for the channel flow and
determined using Figure 9A-12. determine if a hydraulic jump will occur.
The remaining spaces of table, including Froudes Number can be determined using:
the determination of Vo, are calculated by
Fr Q B
multiplying the Full values by relevant gA
3
Factor.
Where:
B = 2 y D y
refer Figure 9.11.1.9
March 2010
9-40
Add another barrel or cell if channel

width permits;
Increase barrel or cell height if
vertical clearance permits;
Alter culvert slope (Note: desirable
minimum is 0.25%).
Figure 9.11.1.9 Flow Width in Pipes
A combination of the above.
Where a designer decides to alter invert
When a pipe or box culvert is flowing full, levels, it is preferable to lower inlets and
technically there is no water surface and leave outlets as close to natural surface as
therefore no B. In this situation, it is possible. Drop inlets (and structures) are
considered suitable to calculate Fr at the better than hanging or buried outlets.
moment just before the water surface
touches the obvert of the culvert and adopt 9.12 Minimum Energy Loss
this Fr value for the trial culvert. Therefore: Culverts
For box culverts, use full waterway
The early designs based on this principle
area and B = nominal width of box
were known as minimum energy / constant
section; and
energy and no afflux culverts, although the
For pipe culverts, use full waterway last title is no longer used. Bridge
area, but assume B as 10% of D ( waterways have also been designed as
99.7% of A). minimum energy loss structures.
9.11.1.10 Design Check To minimise energy loss through a culvert
and the resulting afflux, the design requires
At this stage, the outlet velocity (Vo) should
carefully shaped inlets and outlets (refer
be checked against the maximum allowable
Figure 9.12) and usually a dropped culvert
stream velocity (Vmax) for outlet channel.
barrel such that critical flow passes through
Preferably, Vo should be less than Vmax. If
the system in the design flood. In a
Vo exceeds Vmax then the designer must
minority of these structures flow is not at
9
include suitable outlet protection for the
critical depth in the barrel in the design
culvert into the design (refer Sections 9.15
flood.
and 9.16). Where outlet protection is not
suitable (size / cost) then a larger / wider Furthermore, due to the size, material
culvert trial is required. requirements and increased difficultly in
construction, minimum energy culverts are
9.11.2 Practical Design generally very expensive options and the
benefits of these types of culverts is
If a culvert trial is considered unacceptable,
arguable.
the designer is required to redesign the
culvert by trialling another culvert size /
configuration. The choices the designer has
in determining a new trial culvert are:
March 2010
9-41
The cost of shaped inlets and outlets

will be more costly than those for
conventional culverts;
An anti-ponding pipe may be
necessary to prevent ponding of
water after a flood;
Sediment may be deposited after a
flood and may not be removed in
Figure 9.12 Minimum Energy Loss future flows with the possibility of
Culvert on Gateway Motorway growth of vegetation requiring
Advantages promoted by others over removal i.e. Provision for
conventional structures are that: maintenance required; and
by constricting the natural flow to a The possibility of debris blocking the

greater extent, the body or cell has a culvert barrel is increased because of
minimum width, reducing the smaller cell.
construction costs for this The significance of some key points above
component; is that too much debris or siltation will
the flow through the culvert is change the geometry such that streamlined
streamlined and therefore, has flow would not occur.
reduced turbulence which, in turn, Minimum Energy Loss Culverts are no
reduces the erosion potential of the longer used or recommended by the
flow and minimises the need for department. If an existing minimum energy
protection; and loss structure requires extension or
the minimisation of energy losses alteration, then the design must be referred
results in little or no adverse effect on to Director (Hydraulics), Hydraulics
upstream flood levels. Section, Engineering & Technology
Division.
Problems have been observed in some
existing structures and some designers see 9.13 Blockage of Culverts
9 them as indications for caution in the future
design of minimum energy loss structures. The likelihood of blockage should be
Stated reservations include: considered for all culverts. Blockage can
occur through siltation or by debris (such as
Critical flow is inherently unstable
vegetation).
and therefore, sensitive to small
changes in energy and depth of flow. Blockage reduces the waterway area of the
Discharges both higher and lower culvert and therefore adversely affects the
than the design discharge have the capacity / performance of the culvert. The
potential to give higher affluxes than result of blockage is typically:
the design flood. The range of flows an increase in upstream peak water
for which streamlined flow may levels / flooding;
occur in any structure is questioned;
March 2010
9-42
an increased potential for water to 9.14 Consideration of

overtop the road; and Large or Extreme
an increased risk of failure to road Events
embankment / culvert.
Irrespective of the design ARI of a culvert,
Silt deposits and some debris can be consideration should be given to the
detected and removed via maintenance impacts of flood events which are larger
processes outside of a rainfall event than the design event (refer Section 2.7). In
therefore would not impede the any flows, determining the appropriate degree of
however this is highly dependant on the consideration, issues such as the frequency
efficiency of maintenance in the area. and consequence of overtopping should be
Where debris blockage during an event is addressed.
considered likely (typical in catchments that
contain significant woody riparian 9.15 Culvert Outlet
vegetation), larger culvert sizes may be Protection
required, in accordance with the extent of
Outlet protection is required in situations
adverse impacts that could occur to the
where:
roadway or to surrounding properties.
outlet velocity exceeds the scour
Where large or long branches and/or tree
velocity of the bed or bank material;
trunks are a possibility, sloped extensions to
piers, as shown in Figure 9.13, can be used an unprotected channel bend exists
to turn long objects into the culvert barrel. within a short distance of the culvert
outlet;
the outlet channel and banks are
actively eroding; and
if an erodible channel bank exists
less than 10 to 13 times the pipe
diameter downstream of the outlet,
and this bank is in-line with the
9
outlet jet (i.e. likely to be eroded by
the outlet jet) the bank should
adequately protected to control any
undesirable damage as a result of the
Figure 9.13 - Flood Water Flowing into outlet jetting.
Box Culverts
The most appropriate outlet protection is
determined by considering the hydraulic
Designers must consider the potential for performance of the outlet in the prevailing
and impacts of blockage for each catchment stream environment.
/ culvert installation and where impacts are At outlet structures, the best hydraulic
considered unacceptable, design mitigating performance is obtained when the confining
treatments accordingly. sidewalls are parallel and the distribution of
flow across the channel is uniform.
March 2010
9-43
Culverts, however, are generally narrower Where the outlet flows have a Froude
than the natural waterway and a transition Number (Fr) less or equal to 1.7 and outlet
section is required to return the flow to the velocities less than 5.0 m/s, an extended
natural channel. When culvert outlet concrete apron or rock pad (commonly
velocities are high, additional measures at used) protection is recommended.
the outlets may prove to be necessary for
The recommended minimum rock size (d50)
energy dissipation. Section 9.16 below
and length (L) of rock protection
provides additional information on more
downstream of culvert outlets may be
specialised energy dissipators.
determined from Figure 9.15(a).
In all types of culvert outlets, protection of
The minimum recommended width of the
the stream bed would normally be provided
rock pad is defined as:
for a minimum distance of 1.5D
downstream where D is the diameter of a Immediately downstream of the
pipe or the height of a box culvert. Apron outlet: the width of the outlet apron;
treatments are shown on Standard Drawings At the downstream end of the rock
1131, 1317 and 1318 (QDMR 2009b) and pad: the above width plus 0.4 times
are usually applied to both inlets and the length of the rock pad (L) as
outlets. shown in Figure 9.15(b).
To check whether standard inlet and outlet When the width of the channel is less than
structures with headwalls, wingwalls, the recommended width of the rock
aprons and cut-off walls are adequate, the protection, then the rock protection shall
outlet velocity for the culvert requires extend up the banks of the channel to a
examination with respect to: height equal to the obvert of the outlet.
natural environment (soil and For Froude Number (Fr) values greater than
vegetation cover); 1.7 and outlet velocities equal or greater
size of peak flow; and than 5.0 m/s, an alternative energy
dissipator structure should be considered.
duration of large flows.
Refer to Section 9.16 for alternative energy
If outlet velocities exceed the acceptable dissipation structures.
9 limits, it may be necessary to check for

potential bed scour problems.
March 2010
9-44
Figure 9.15(a) Minimum Rock Size and Length of Apron (QUDM 2008)
Figure 9.15(b) Rock Apron Detail (QUDM 2008)
March 2010
9-45
9.16 Special Energy Bed scour control: Relatively good

control of bed
Dissipation Structures scour.
at Culvert Outlet
Debris effects: Medium debris
hazard.
This section presents some of non standard
and more specialised energy dissipators. Safety issues: Medium safety
These options can be expensive to design hazard.
and construct and generally have a potential
for high maintenance costs (i.e. debris Hydraulic Jump Chambers
collection). These devices can also be a
potential public and wildlife safety hazard.
The following specialised energy
dissipators are typical devices and have
been extracted form QUDM (2008):
Forced Hydraulic Jump Basin
Design reference: Korom, Sarikelle &
Simon (1990).
Function: Energy dissipation,
hydraulic jump
control.
Form of energy loss: Bed friction and
forced hydraulic
jump.
Design reference: U.S. Dept. of Tailwater conditions: Maximum tailwater
Transport (1983). requirements exist,
no minimum
Function: Energy dissipation, tailwater condition.
boundary layer
development, Jet control: Jet control exists if
forced hydraulic an effective
jump. hydraulic jump is
formed, otherwise
9
Form of energy loss: Bed friction, and the jet may pass
hydraulic jump. through with
Tailwater conditions: Tailwater minimum energy
requirements exist loss.
but are flexible, Bed scour control: Minor bed scour
generally suitable may still occur
for a range of downstream of the
tailwater chamber, thus rock
conditions. may be required.
Jet control: Provides minimum Debris effects: Low to medium
control of outlet jet debris hazard, but
unless an effective may be difficult to
hydraulic jump de-silt.
forms.
Safety issues: Medium safety
hazard.
March 2010
9-46
Riprap Basin Single Pipe Outlet
Design reference: ASCE (1992), U.S.

Dept. of Transport
(1983).
Function: Energy dissipation. Design reference: Argue (1960),
Form of energy loss: Plunge pool. Queensland
Transport (1975).
Tailwater conditions: Effective for
tailwater levels less Function: Energy dissipation,
than 3/4 incoming hydraulic jump
jet height. control, flow
expansion.
Jet control: Good control of
plunging jet, but Form of energy loss: Plunge pool and
minimal control of forced hydraulic
submerged jet. jump
Bed scour control: Bed scour caused Tailwater conditions: Effective at low
by a high velocity tailwater
submerged jet can conditions.
still occur Jet control: Minimal control of
downstream of the high velocity
structure. submerged jets, but
Debris effects: Low debris hazard. good control of
plunging jets.
Safety issues: Low to medium
safety hazard. Bed scour control: Downstream rock
Long-term ponding protection is
may occur unless required if bed
9
the plunge pool is scour is to be
raised above the controlled.
channel thus Debris effects: Low debris hazard.
allowing the pool to
free drain through a Safety issues: Medium to high
low-flow outlet safety hazard.
slot.
March 2010
9-47
Twin Pipe Outlet Design reference: Peterka (1984),

Meredith (1975),
U.S. Soil
Conservation (-),
Rice & Kadavy
(1991), U.S. Dept.
of Transport
(1983), Standing
Committee on
Rivers and
Catchments (1991).
Function: Energy dissipation.
Design reference: O'Loughlin (1960),
Queensland Form of energy loss: Impact structure.
Transport (1975).
Tailwater conditions: No tailwater
Function: Energy dissipation, requirements.
hydraulic jump
Jet control: Control of high
control, flow
velocity outlet jet.
expansion.
Bed scour control: Bed scour will still
Form of energy loss: Plunge pool and
occur and may
forced hydraulic
require downstream
jump.
rock protection.
Tailwater conditions: Effective at low
Debris effects: High debris hazard.
tailwater
conditions. Safety issues: Extreme safety
hazard.
Jet control: Minimal control of
high velocity Impact Columns
submerged jets, but
good control of
plunging jets.
Bed scour control: Downstream rock
protection is
required if bed
scour is to be
9 Debris effects:
controlled.
Low debris hazard.
Safety issues: Medium to high Design reference: Brisbane City
safety hazard. Council (2003),
Smith & Yu
(1966).
USBR Type VI Impact Basin Function: Energy dissipation
and flow
expansion.
Form of energy loss: Impact structure.
Tailwater conditions: Suitable for high or
low tailwater
conditions.
March 2010
9-48
Jet control: Effective control of The use of a cutoff wall along and under the
outlet jet. edge of the inlet apron should also be
Bed scour control: Some control of investigated / checked.
bed scour.
An important aspect that designers must
Debris effects: Medium to high
check for is the occurrence of a hydraulic
debris hazard.
jump in the inlet of the culvert.
Safety issues: Extreme safety Supercritical flows in the existing channel,
hazard.
at the site of a proposed culvert, will be
forced back to subcritical flow by the
Use of such energy dissipators should be presence of the culvert. This will force a
considered the exception, not the norm, and jump at the culvert entrance which can:
should only be used when no other cause erosion about the inlet if not
reasonable options are available. The adequately protected; and/or
design of these devices / structures should
affect the hydraulic design of the
be referred to Hydraulics Section,
culvert due to the turbulence.
Engineering & Technology Division or a
suitably prequalified consultant. If this is the case, it is recommended to
force the jump to occur some distance
9.17 Self Cleaning upstream of the culvert (by placing a hump
Culverts across the stream bed) so that the energy
and turbulence can dissipate before arriving
If a self cleaning culvert is required, at the culvert.
designers are referred to Section 2.8 for
requirements / design parameters. 9.19 Managing Sediment
9.18 Inlet Structures Sediment deposits within culverts,

especially multi-cell culverts, can cause
For culvert inlet structures, headwalls and significant operational and maintenance
wingwalls of concrete or rock masonry are problems.
usually needed to provide embankment
Occasionally sediment traps (basins) are
9
stability and protection against erosion.
constructed upstream of culverts. In these
Culverts with wingwalls should be designed cases, an access ramp for maintenance must
with an apron extending between the walls. be provided to allow de-silting of the trap.
Aprons may be grouted rock pitching,
In critical areas, or for long culverts where
reinforced or unreinforced concrete or rock
maintenance is extremely difficult, a small
mattresses. The actual configuration of the
sediment trap / weir can be constructed at
wingwalls will vary according to the
the inlet to divert low flows to just one or
direction of flow and so protection against
two culvert cells. This will allow the flow
scour is maximised through inclusion of the
to enter the remaining cells only during
apron. Refer to Standard Drawings 1131,
high flows.
1148, 1179, 1303, 1304, 1305 and 1306
(QDMR 2009b). These sediment weirs should be designed to
be fully drowned during major flood events
so that no adverse backwater effects occur.
March 2010
9-49
9.20 Safety satisfying safety requirements for road

users.
9.20.1 Culverts Used As
9.20.2.3 Noise Fencing
Walkways and Bikeways
Noise control fencing must allow for the
Provision for pedestrians and cyclists can free passage of overtopping flood flows in
be made in sizing a waterway culvert. most cases. Even where culverts have been
However, in order to be effective, the designed with a large capacity (e.g. 50 yr
approach ramps must allow clear vision ARI event) consideration of the impacts of
through the culvert cell. the fence on overtopping flow is also
It should also be kept in mind that required.
pedestrians will often prefer to cross over a
9.20.3 Additional Safety
road than under it for reasons of security.
Considerations
9.20.2 Barriers to Flow
In the design and location of pipe
9.20.2.1 Trafficability installations, designers must consider the
Considerations hazards / risks which may exist at particular
sites. Workplace Health and Safety
Consideration needs to be given to the requirements should be considered in
desired trafficability of the road during culvert design, installation and subsequence
overtopping flood flows. maintenance. Some of the issues which
Raised median strips can result in traffic should be addressed may include, but are
movement only on one side of the road not restricted to:
during overtopping flows. In critical flood Excavation / Trenching Stage
control areas, it may be necessary to use a
painted median. Geotechnical analysis and the need
for shoring;
Raised kerbs or pedestrian pathways on the
downstream side of a road can cause Placement of excavated material
ponding to occur across the full width of close to trench walls;
the road, thus reducing trafficability in both Location of underground services;
9 directions during flood events.

9.20.2.2 Traffic Safety Barriers
Placement of materials;
Proximity of machinery to
Median traffic barriers such as the GM excavations;
Barrier can significantly interfere with the
Crane capacity and reach;
passage of overtopping flood flows and the
migration of terrestrial wildlife across the Proximity of machinery to overhead
road. powerlines and obstructions;
If these barriers are likely to interfere with Backfilling;

flood waters or terrestrial movement, then Probability of wall collapse arising
the road layout should be designed to avoid from vibration or traffic movement;
the need for such barriers, subject to
March 2010
9-50
Amount of time excavation will be

open;
Working within confined space; and
Anticipated weather conditions.
The cost of control measures to be used to
ensure that the risks associated with the
above issues are minimised should be
included in the installation costs of the
drainage structure.
Also, where culvert inlets are located in
areas likely to be accessed by people
(particularly children), consideration must
be given to appropriately fence the inlet to
ensure someone is not swept into the
culvert during a flood event. An example
of this type of fencing is shown in Figure
9.20.3.
9
Figure 9.20.3 - Fencing Around Pipe Inlet
A serious problem with fencing a culvert

inlet is that the potential for blockage is
greatly increased and designers need to
check for and mitigate any possible adverse
affect due to the blockage.
March 2010
9-51

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Department of Transport and Main Roads Chapter 9

Road Drainage Manual Culvert Design

Chapter 9 Amendments Mar 2010

9.10 Hydraulic Calculations 9-30

If no passage is to be provided, then the

9.1.2 Constructability chainage, skew number, invert

9 CULVERT software to hydraulically

Table 9.2.1 Recommended Pipe Joint

protection measures will be required. (c) Construction traffic loads; and

9.2.6.2 Structural Requirements be retained. Final decisions to retain

Therefore the designer is required to to a higher strength pipe with H2 support.

9 Drawing 1359 (QDMR 2009b), the support

Figure 9.2.6.8(a) - Corrugated Steel

The following Australian Standards are

The departments specification MRTS03

They have been used successfully to line 9.2.6.11 Other Structural

Figure 9.2.7(a) Longitudinal Cracking of Apron Failure

Figure 9.2.7(a) Vertical Displacement of Apron Failure

This section addresses: applied stress.

Figure 9.2.7.2 Failure Mechanism of Base Slabs in Expansive Soils

Table 9.2.7.5 Required Tests ripping, scarifying and then

Prediction of moisture infiltration under abutments and general bridge maintenance

coefficients as provided by the particularly when slab link box culverts

It is also essential to review: headwater that can be developed upstream

9 then there is friction loss along the

For culverts used as walkways and

Figure 9.5 - Box Culverts with Riprap 9.7 Requirements for

9.7.3 Considerations for Table 9.7.3 - Minimum Desirable Culvert

To allow for terrestrial passage through a Large mammals 1.2m

Source: Catchments & Creeks Pty Ltd

Low flow channel: In some cases, in order

9.7.4 Culvert Features for

Other features associated with terrestrial

Separate wet and dry cell can be formed by

Source: Catchments & Creeks Pty Ltd

Source: Catchments & Creeks Pty Ltd

9.7.5 Stock Underpass

Stock underpasses (also known as cattle

Table 9.8 - Culvert Types for Different Conditions

1 Refer Appendix C, AS/NZS 2041 1998 Buried Corrugated Steel Pipes

Metal culverts have some advantages in

Source: Bureau of Public Roads (1965)

Figure 9.9 - Typical Conditions under which Standard Culverts Operate

9 In Figure 9.9, Types 3, 4, 5 and 8 are

With outlet control the culvert flow is 9.10.1 Control at Inlet

Source : Austroads (1994)

Source : Austroads (1994)

Table 9.10.2 - Culvert Entry Loss Coefficient

Substituting in the first equation above and

Where: Special culverts are those that do not fit

9 The procedure does not address the

HYDRAULIC DESIGN PROCESS FOR CULVERTS

Collect Design Data

1 - Shoulder height and freeboard

- Maximum allowable velocity (Vmax). If no - HWi controls - go to step 8.

Select a Trial Culvert

Where A is depth of flow based on D, dc or

Outlet Velocity Inlet Control

Outlet Flow Energy (Froudes Number)

Compare to Fr for channel is there a

If an alternative culvert configuration is to

Figure 9.11 - Culvert Design Flow Chart

9.11.1.1 Collect Design Data allowable afflux to limit flooding level