Roadway Pavement Section Change Frequency
Roadway Pavement Section Change Frequency
(OP)
Hopefully I can get some input here. I'm wondering what the accepted minimum length of a pavement section change is. For example, the first half of a contract is in a valley with low R-Value subgrade and the second half is in the mountains with a more competent subgrade. Rather than design the road with a consistent section (say 5" HMA / 8" AB) how frequently (e.g. every no less than one mile) do you change the roadway section, to take advantage of the mountain subgrade and enhance the section in the valley?





RE: Roadway Pavement Section Change Frequency
But to get back to the change frequency, keep in mind that someone has to build this - and to change from one section to another over short distances can lead to many headaches for all involved with the on-the-ground construction. For a new road, I would have an absolute minimum of 200m sections and even 500m lengths would be better. This gives the contractor a good 'length' to build of similar materials. Too, you will also need to think about transition zones. For a reconstructed roadway - I would probably use 1000m lengths for pavement sections as a minimum.
RE: Roadway Pavement Section Change Frequency
RE: Roadway Pavement Section Change Frequency
--The amount of change. 2" vs 6" of grade difference may represent very different economies.
--The quality and capabilities of the Contractor. Some contractors create more trouble than the effort is worth.
--The project complexity. Lots of utilities, manholes, drainage plans, etc. may result in more problems than is worthy.
--Last, but sadly, not least. The quality of the Civil Engineer and Surveyor.
RE: Roadway Pavement Section Change Frequency