17.2.3.4. Critical length of the grade

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the critical length?

   Hint

   Think about how speed impacts gradients.

2. 2.

   Why is 25 km/h often used for operational speed?

   Hint

   Consider why speed matters for vehicles.

3. 3.

   What is the critical length for loaded trucks?

   • The length of the road with no gradient
   • The maximum length a truck can ascend without speed loss
   • Any length of gradient

   Hint

   Think about what affects speed in gradients.

4. 4.

   True or False: The critical length is always the same for every truck.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how load and power alter performance.

5. 5.

   Design a gradient with a maximum length of 300 meters for a truck weighing 20 tons. How would you calculate its critical length?

   Hint

   Think about how weight and power impact speed.

6. 6.

   Analyze the effects of critical length on a new road design for trucks versus buses. What specific considerations apply?

   Hint

   Consider speed and operational requirements for different vehicles.