Cooper E-80 loading

[concretestan]

I have heard that a precast concrete structure must have a minimum cover of 18" when designed for E-80 loading. Is this correct or can there be less coverage and if it is true where can I find documentation for this?

 

[cvg]

if this is under a railroad, than you may need a lot more than this to place the ballast.

 

[PEinc]

You need to check AREMA's specs and the specs of the particular railroad that you are working with. If you don't have both of these specs, you shouldn't be designing the structure.

 

[DWHA]

I am just guessing here, but the 18" that you refer to might be required to ignor impact. I would look into that.