Transportation Engineering - Vol 1 | 17. Vertical Alignment by Abraham | Learn Smarter
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17. Vertical Alignment

17. Vertical Alignment

The chapter discusses the vertical alignment of roads, emphasizing the importance of gradients and vertical curves in road design. It covers types of gradients, their effects on vehicular speed, and the IRC specifications for various terrains. Key concepts such as summit curves are examined for their role in facilitating smooth transitions and maintaining safety in road construction.

21 sections

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Sections

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  1. 17
    Vertical Alignment

    This section discusses the vertical alignment of roads, emphasizing...

  2. 17.1

    This section introduces the concept of vertical alignment in road design,...

  3. 17.2

    This section discusses the concept of gradient in road design, emphasizing...

  4. 17.2.1
    Effect Of Gradient

    The effect of gradient on vehicular speed and operational costs,...

  5. 17.2.2
    Representation Of Gradient

    This section describes how gradients are represented in road design,...

  6. 17.2.3
    Types Of Gradient

    This section elaborates on different types of gradients used in roadway...

  7. 17.2.3.1
    Ruling Gradient

    This section discusses the concept of ruling gradients in road design,...

  8. 17.2.3.2
    Limiting Gradient

    The limiting gradient defines the maximum gradient allowable to control...

  9. 17.2.3.3
    Exceptional Gradient

    The exceptional gradient allows for very steep slopes in unavoidable...

  10. 17.2.3.4
    Critical Length Of The Grade

    This section discusses the critical length of ascending gradients applicable...

  11. 17.2.3.5
    Minimum Gradient

    This section discusses the minimum gradient necessary for adequate surface...

  12. 17.2.4
    Creeper Lane

    This section discusses the concept of creeper lanes, which help manage...

  13. 17.2.5
    Grade Compensation

    Grade compensation involves adjusting the gradient in the presence of...

  14. 17.3
    Summit Curve

    Summit curves are vertical curves that form when two gradients meet,...

  15. 17.3.1
    Type Of Summit Curve

    Summit curves are vertical curves connecting gradients, primarily designed...

  16. 17.3.2
    Design Consideration

    This section focuses on the design considerations for summit curves,...

  17. 17.3.3
    Length Of The Summit Curve

    This section discusses the critical aspects of designing the length of...

  18. 17.3.3.1
    Case A. Length Of Summit Curve Greater Than Sight Distance

    This section discusses calculating the length of summit curves when it...

  19. 17.3.3.2
    Case B. Length Of Summit Curve Less Than Sight Distance

    This section discusses the design considerations for summit curves in road...

  20. 17.4

    This section discusses the types of gradients in road design and the IRC's...

  21. 17.5

    This section presents a series of problems related to the design of vertical...

What we have learnt

  • The vertical alignment of roads is crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency in vehicular movement.
  • Different types of gradients, such as ruling and limiting gradients, play significant roles in road design.
  • Summit curves facilitate smoother transitions in gradient changes and enhance driver comfort and safety.

Key Concepts

-- Vertical Alignment
The arrangement of road grades and curves in a vertical plane, affecting how vehicles navigate a roadway.
-- Gradient
The rate of rise or fall along the road, influencing vehicle speed and operational costs.
-- Summit Curve
A vertical curve where two ascending gradients meet, designed to improve sight distance and vehicle operation.

Additional Learning Materials

Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.