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Longitudinal Grade Seperation
Longitudinal Grade Seperation
The distance needed to achieve a grade separation can be determined from Figure 10-8 for gradients
ranging from 2 to 7 percent and for design speeds (V ) ranging from 50 km/h to 110 km/h [30 mph to
70 mph]. Design speeds (V ) of 80 km/h to 110 km/h [50 mph to 70 mph] are applicable to urban freeways,
and 60 km/h (50 km/h in special cases) [40 mph (30 mph in special cases)] is used on major arterials.
The curves are derived with the same approach gradient on each side of the structure. However, values
of D from Figure 10-8 also are applicable to combinations of unequal gradients. Distance D is equal to
the length of the initial vertical curve, plus one-half the central vertical curve, plus the length of tangent
between the curves. Lengths of vertical curves, both sag and crest, are minimums based on the minimum
stopping sight distance. Longer curves are desirable. Length D applies equally to an overpass or an under-
pass, despite the fact that the central crest vertical curve may be longer than the central sag vertical curve
for comparable values of H and G.
For the usual profile rise (or fall) needed for a grade separation (H of 7.5 m [25 ft] or less),
gradients greater than 3 percent for a design speed of 110 km/h [70 mph], 4 percent for 100 km/h [60
mph], 5 per- cent for 80 km/h [50 mph], and 6 percent for 60 km/h [40 mph] cannot be used. For
values of H less than 7.5 m [25 ft], flatter gradients than those just cited should generally be used.
The lower terminal of
Chapter 10—Grade Separations and Interchanges 10-25
Note: Symbols on each line indicate the point below which the
grade is not feasible, necessitating the use of the next flatter grade.
Design
Speed 70 mph
60 mph
50 mph
40 mph
D=830 ft
Total Length of curve= 2*830=1660 ft
=506.09 m
This is the required length as per AASHTO
for 22 ft height. (6.7 m)
Chapter 10—Grade Separa ti ons and 10-27
Interchanges
Approximate
G
G
H Level Grade
A
Ground
Overcrossing
D
Ground
Approximate
Level Grade
A G G
H
Cross Street
Undercrossing