IRC:122-2017

GUIDELINES FOR CONSTRUCTION

OF PRECAST CONCRETE SEGMENTAL
BOX CULVERTS

INDIAN ROADS CONGRESS

2017
 IRC:122-2017

GUIDELINES FOR CONSTRUCTION

.t OF PRECAST CONCRETE SEGMENTAL
BOX CULVERTS

Published by:

INDIAN ROADS CONGRESS

Kama Koti Marg,
Sector-6, R.K. Puram,
New Delhi-110 022

NOVEMBER, 2017

Price : ~ 300/-
(P/us Packing & Postage)
IRC:122-2017

First Published : November, 2017

(All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication shall be reproduced,

translated or transmitted in any form or by any means without the
permission of the Indian Roads Congress)

Printed by India Offset Press, Delhi - 110 064

500 Copies
 IRC:122-2017

CONTENTS

S.No. Description Page No.

i Personnel of the Highways Specifications and Standards Committee i-ii
1. Introduction 1
2. Scope 3
3. Specifications 4
4. Construction Methodology 10
5. Quality Management 18
6. Precautions and Safety Measures 20
7. Maintenance 20
8. Bibliography 21
 IRC:122-2017

PERSONNEL OF THE HIGHWAYS SPECIFICATIONS

AND STANDARDS COMMITTEE
(As on 23.06.2017)

Kumar, Manoj Director General (Road Development) & Special Secretary to Govt. of
1
(Convenor) India, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, New Delhi
Singh, B.N. Addl. Director General (lncharge), Ministry of Road Transport and
2
(Co-Convenor) Highways, New Delhi
Verma, Dr. S.K. Chief Engineer (R) S,R & T, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways,
3
(Member Secretary) New Delhi
Members
4 Bamezai, Prof. (Dr.) Gita R&D, Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi
5 Basar, Toli Chief Engineer, PWD, Arunachal Pradesh
6 Bhanot, Balraj Chairman, TED, Bureau of Indian Standards, New Delhi
7 Bongirwar, P.L. Secretary (Retd.), PWD Maharashtra
DG(RD) & AS (Retd.), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,
8 Gupta, D.P.
New Delhi
9 Jain, Prof. (Dr.) S.S. Professor, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee
10 Jain, R.K. Chief Engineer (Retd.), PWD Haryana
Chief Executive, L.R. Kadiyali & Associates
11 Kadiyali, Dr. L.R.
(Expired on 18.02.2016), New Delhi
12 Lal, Bhure Chairman, Environment Pollution Control Authority, Delhi
Engineer-in-Chief, Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority,
13 Lal, Chaman
Haryana
14 Narain, Sunita DG, Centre for Science and Environment, New Delhi
15 Nashikkar, J.T. JMD, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation Ltd., Mumbai
16 Pandey, R.K. Member (Projects), National Highways Authority of India, New Delhi
17 Parida, Prof. (Dr.) M. Dean, SRIC, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee
18 Pateriya, Dr. I.K. Director (Tech), National Rural Roads Development Agency, New Delhi
19 Pawar, Ajit Secretary (Retd.), PWD Maharashtra
20 Porwal, Dr. S.S. (VSM) ADG (Retd.), Border Roads Organisation, New Delhi
21 Raju, Dr. G.V.S. Engineer-in-Chief (Retd.), Roads & Building, Andhra Pradesh
22 Rawat, M.S. Executive Director, AECOM India Pvt. Ltd.
23 Sarangi, D. CGM, National Highways Authority of India, New Delhi
24 Sharma, M.P. Chief Engineer, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, New Delhi
DG(RD) & SS (Retd.), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,
25 Sharma, S.C.
New Delhi
IRC:122-2017

26 Sheokand, Balbir Singh Executive Engineer, PWD Haryana

DG(RD) & SS (Retd.), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,
27 Singh, Nirmaljit
New Delhi

28 Singh, Pawan Kumar GM, 3M India Ltd.

DG(RD) & SS (Retd.), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,

29 Sinha, A.V.
New Delhi

30 Tawade, D.O. Member (T), National Highways Authority of India, New Delhi

The Director,
31 Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi
(Chandra, Dr. Satish)

The Director General,

32 Border Roads Organisation, New Delhi
(Shrivastava, Lt. Gen. S.K.)

The Director General,

33 Society of Indian Automobile Manufactures, New Delhi
(Mathur, Vishnu)

The Engineer-in-Chief,
34 Military Engineer Services, New Delhi
(Sharma, Lt. Gen. Suresh)

35 Tickoo, Bimal Secretary (T), PWD Jammu

36 Tiwari, Prof. (Dr.) Geetam Professor, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi

Superintending Engineer, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,

37 Varshney, Sharad
New Delhi
38 Verma, G.L. MD, Engg and Planning Consultants Ltd., New Delhi

Corresponding Members

Baluja, Dr. Rohit President, Institute of Road Traffic Education, New Delhi
2 Bhowmik, Sunil Engineer-in-Chief (Retd.), Tripura
DG(RD) & SS (Retd.), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways,
3 Kandasamy, C
New Delhi
The Director,
4 (Patil, Capt. (Dr.) Rajendra B. Central Institute of Road Transport, Pune
Saner)

Ex-Officio Members

President, (Pradhan, N.K.), Engineer-in-Chief cum Secretary, Works Department,

Indian Roads Congress Odisha

Director General (Road

2 Development) & Special (Kumar, Manoj), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, New Delhi
Secretary to Govt. of India

Secretary General,
3 Nirmal, Sanjay Kumar
Indian Roads Congress

ii
 IRC:122-2017

GUIDELINES FOR CONSTRUCTION OF

PRECAST CONCRETE SEGEMENTAL BOX CULVERTS

1 INTRODUCTION
/
The draft "Guidelines for Construction of Precast Concrete Segmental Box Culverts" was
first taken up by the Embankment, Ground Improvement and Drainage Committee (H-4) of
previous tenure Le. 2012-14. Later, the H-4 Committee was re-constituted for 2015-17 and
the draft was deliberated in a series of meetings. The H-4 Committee finally approved the
draft document in its meeting held on 301h September, 2015 and decided to send the final
draft to IRC for placing before the HSS Committee.

The Composition of H-4 Committee is as given below:

Nashikkar, J.T. Convenor

Nirmal, Sanjay Kumar . . . . . . Co-Convenor
Havanagi, Dr. Vasant G. ...... Member-Secretary

Members
Adhikari, Atanu Khan,Shabana
Bagli, Shahrokh P. Korulla, Minimol
Chand, Faqir Kumar, Anil
Gajria, Maj. Gen. K.T. Raheja, H.S.
Ghosh, Prof. (Dr.) S.K. Ranjan, Gopal
Gupta, Sanjay Rao, P.J.
Guru Vittal, U.K. Seehra, Dr. S.S.
Jain, N.C. Shahu, Prof. (Dr.) J.T.
Jain, N.S. Shaikh, lmran
Jalota, Dr. A.V. Singh, Kuldip
Katara, U.C. Vyas, Saurabh D.
Kaushik, Shiv Das, Atasi
Corresponding Members
Madhav, Prof. M.R. Sen, Samiran
Rajagopal, Dr. K. Thomas, Dr. Jimmy
Rao, Dr. G. Venkatappa
Ex-Officio Members
President, (Pradhan, N.K.), Engineer-in
Indian Roads Congress Chief cum Secretary, Works
Department, Odisha
Director General (Kumar, Manoj), Ministry of
(Road Development) & Special Road Transport & Highways
Secretary to Govt. of India

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IRC:122-2017

Secretary General, Nirmal, Sanjay Kumar

Indian Roads Congress

The Highways Specifications & Standards Committee (HSS) considered and approved the
draft document in its meeting held on 23rd June, 2017. The Council in its 212th meeting held at
Udaipur on 14th and 15th July, 2017 considered and authorized Executive Committee of IRC
to look into matter in consultation with respective Convenors of Technical Committee before
its publishing. The Executive Committee in its meeting held on 7th August, 2017 considered
and approved the same document for printing.

1.1 Precast concrete segmental box culverts are one of the most versatile and cost
effective pre-cast concrete products, meeting the needs of fast paced construction projects.
Flexibility in design and ease of placement at site leads to cost savings. The uses for pre-cast
concrete segmental box sections are endless. They can be used for underpasses, service
tunnels, subways, bridges, stream culverts, cattle pass and so on. These guidelines are
applicable for Precast Concrete Segmental Box Culverts (PCBC) only. A Precast Concrete
Segmental Box Culvert (PCBC) is an easily installed conduit used to provide passage for
roads, pathways (or) flowing water (e.g. streams, storm water or drains) underneath roads,
railways or embankments. Precast concrete segmental box culverts are being used in many
countries including India. With modern and mechanized box culvert production facilities, one
can produce over 40- 60 m length of culvert section per day.

1.2 Precast concrete box culvert segments are most frequently manufactured and
delivered captive or commercially as a finished section of required shape. Larger box culverts
that cannot be transported as a single unit are constructed from two 'U' sections for on-site
assembly. Sometimes two 'L' shapes and in between 'T' shapes are also being used. These
are provided with rebated jointsN notched to allow sections to be laid open or sealed. Precast
Concrete Box culverts may be even provided with precast wing walls and head walls.

1.3 Other components that may require precast elements include the following:

1.3.1 Precast Concrete Wing Walls

Wing Walls are retaining walls placed at the entrance and exit of a box culvert. The walls are
sloped to match contours of the approaches. Wing walls help to form and protect the ends of
the box culvert and are designed and manufactured to match precast culvert specifications
and ground conditions.

1.3.2 Precast Concrete Head Walls

Head walls also known as head beams or face walls are typically located between wing walls
at the end of the box culvert. These walls serve to retain soil above the top slab in order to
form and protect the culvert entrance and exit.

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 IRC:122-2017

1.3.3 Toe Walls

A low wall built at the bottom for providing embankment stability and to prevent scour at the
toe of the embankment.
/
1.4 Advantages of Precast Concrete Segmental Box Culvert
Precast box culverts have the following main advantages:
i. The time span of entire construction of conventional culvert: comprising of
casting base slab, shuttering/de-shuttering and concreting of side walls, slab
then finishing etc. taking several weeks, gets reduced by use of precast
element transported and placed to a few days.
ii. Flexibility of range: can accommodate almost any size requirement: multi-
cell sections of different shapes.
iii. Ease and rapidity of installation: Can be laid as single or in multiple cells.
iv. The length of the culvert can be increased by adjoining the units with one
another.
v. Eliminates need of transport and erection of shuttering and staging on site
which leads to reduction in cost and time.
vi. Being a product made in controlled environment, it exhibits high quality and
uniformity.
vii. Aesthetically pleasing: Pre-cast concrete box culverts can also include
spandrel and wing wall panels with a multitude of architectural finishes.
viii. In case the design incorporates overfills, there would be no need for approach
slabs. This not only gives a smooth ride but also reduces maintenance.
ix. Reduced weather dependency leading to timely completion of the projects.
x. Superior strength and durability: Strength of pre-cast concrete gradually
increases over time.

1.5 The type of precast concrete box section shall be appropriately selected. The
dimensions of the box section and number of boxes are decided based on the hydraulic
design as per IRC:SP:13. The box section shall be designed considering super imposed dead
load, earth cushion, live load including dynamic impact, tractive and braking forces and earth
pressure as per IRC:6-2017. "Good for Construction" drawings shall be prepared accordingly.
For longer lengths, multiple segments shall be joined together at site by appropriate method.

2 SCOPE

2.1 These guidelines cover the requirements related to Precast Concrete Segmental
Box Culverts. These guidelines deal with the construction methodologies for single-cell (or)
multi-cell precast reinforced concrete box sections cast monolithically (or) partly and proposed
for use in the construction of culverts and for the conveyance of storm water, or plain water.

3
IRC:122-2017

These are also used for passage of traffic including usage as road (or) as parking on top of
these precast reinforced concrete segmental box culverts.

2.2 The reinforced concrete shall be composed of cementitious materials as per

IRC:112, IS:456, mineral aggregates as per IS:383, chemical admixture as per IS:9103 and
water as per IRC:112 all latest editions. For concrete used for precasting of segments, the
provisions of IRC:112 shall apply. For use of Precast Concrete Segmental Box Culvert as a
hydraulic structure, the relevant provisions of IRC:SP: 13 shall be applicable. Other elements
like stone apron, wing walls, face wall, toe wall etc. shall also be designed as per IRC:SP:13.

3 SPECIFICATIONS

3.1 Many national and international specifications are being practiced and some of
them are listed out in the Bibliography.

3.2 The precast concrete box culvert shall be strong, durable and manufactured in a
controlled environment to ensure accuracy of dimensions and quality of the product. Precast
production eliminates traditional on-site construction problems caused by substandard
materials, uncertified craftsmanship, improper curing and bad weather, honeycombing in
concrete, untimely and improper finish of the components.

3.3 The concrete mix properties and cover for precast segmental box section (placed
over a compacted base) shall be selected depending on the severity of exposure condition
as specified in IRC:112 and is given in Table 1 or depending upon the concentrations of S0 3
ions in soil, subsoil or groundwater appropriate protective measures comprising selection of
type of cement, mix proportions and protective coatings in severe cases as given in Table 2,
whichever is stringent.

Table 1 Durability Recommendations for Service Life of at least 100 Years

(Concrete with 20 mm aggregate)

Exposure Maximum Water/ Minimum Minimum Grade Minimum Cover

Condition Cement Ratio Cement Content of Concrete (mm)
kg/m 3
Moderate 0.45 340 M25 40
Severe 0.45 360 M30 45
Very 0.40 380 M40 50
Severe
Extreme 0.35 400 M45 75
Notes:
(1) All four recommendations given in the Table 1 for a particular exposure condition shall be
satisfied.
(2) Minimum cover shown in Table 1 can be reduced by 5 mm in case of factory made precast

4
 IRC:122-2017

concrete elements, high performance concrete, use of stainless steel or controlled permeability
form work. In case more than one of the above measures are adopted the reduction should
not exceed 10 mm.
(3) For elements below ground level, minimum cover shall be 75 mm.
(4) For design life of 50 years or less, the minimum cover can be reduced by 5 mm.
I
Table 2 Requirements for Concrete Exposed to Sulphate Attack

Class Concentration of Sulphates Type of Minimum Maximum Minimum

as 50 3 Cement Cement Water Grade of
In Soils In Content Cement Concrete
Total S0 3 in 2:1 Ground Ratio
503 water: soil
% extract, g/1
1 Traces <1.0 <0.3 OPC 280 0.5 M25
PPC or
PSC
2 0.2 to 1.0 to 1.9 0.3 to OPC 330 0.5 M25
0.5 1.2 PPC or
SRPC 310
3 0.5 to 1.9 to 3.1 1.2 to SRPC 330 0.5 M25
1.0 2.5 PPC or
PSC 350 0.45 M30
4 1.0 to 3.1 to 5.0 2.5 to SRPC 370 0.45 M35
2.0 5.0
5 >2.0 >5.0 >5.0 SRPC 400 0.40 M40
With
protective
coating
Notes:
Type of Cements: OPC: Ordinary Portland Cement Grade 43 conforming to 18:8112
OPC: Ordinary Portland Cement Grade 53v conforing .to 18:12269
PPC: Portland Pozzolona Cement conforming to IS: 1489 (Part 1)
PSC: Portland Slag Cement conforing to 18:455
SRPC: Suphate Resisting Portland Cement conforming to 18:12330

3.4 Precast Concrete Segmental Box Culverts may be used in construction applications
such as conveying storm water, storm drainage, utility conduit, underpasses, service tunnels,
outfalls and the provision of access.

3.5 When ordering box culverts to casting yard or a separate manufacturing unit,
specifications to be followed shall be given in writing and shall include:
• Specifications for the PCBC

5
IRC:122-2017

• Name and location of the project

• Box size, laying length and the bury depth
• Design live load
• Type of joint of two units
• List of fittings
• Material test requirements
• Joint material and quantity

3.6 Other Requirements

3.6.1 Site Inspection

For Precast Concrete segmental Box culvert to work as Cross Drainage (CD) works,
provisions of IRC:SP:13 shall be followed. For other types of structures the provisions shall
be as per site specific requirements.

3.6.2 Designs: Design Discharge, Linear Watetway, Normal Scour Depth, Maximum
Scour Depth
i. Hydraulic Design: For box culverts as Cross-Drainage (CD) structure,
hydraulic design shall be as per IRC:SP:13.
ii. ~or box culverts as non-hydraulic structures, the dimensions of the structure
shall be decided on the basis of site/project requirements.

3.6.3 Clearances

For Precast Concrete Box Culverts as CD works, clearances shall be as per IRC:SP:13. For
concrete box sections as other structures, the vertical clearances shall be as per IRC:54.

3.6.4 Bed Protection

For box culverts as CD works, reference may be made to IRC:SP: 13. For other structures,
the precast box shall be placed on plain cement concrete (PCC) of M 15 bed of adequate
thickness so as to contain the bearing pressure within safe I allowable bearing capacity of
the soil below the structure. However, the PCC bed thickness shall not be less than 100 mm.

3.7 Structural Design

Structural design of precast concrete segmental box shall be as per IRC:112. Designs shall
depend on project requirements and applications. The precast concrete segments shall also
be designed for handling and erection stresses based on the method of construction or
site conditions. Box culverts can be designed to any standard or custom size and strength,
including capability for with standing any loads. Additional features can include toe walls,
headwalls, wing walls, and water tight joints where required and shall be designed as per the
provisions of IRC:SP:13. The precast concrete segmental box culvert shall be designed for

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 IRC:122-2017

the required forces. The dimensions of top slab, bottom slab and web shall be finalized on
the basis of designs and project requirements.

3.8 . Foundation
/
'
Box culverts are most suitable, where safe bearing capacity of soil is less than 10Um 2 . Where
there are purely clayey strata, the top 900 mm below box should have granular material, like,
sandy murum or stone dust. Where there is murum and mixed soil having ct> more than 15°,
there is no need of providing sandy layer. Foundation requirement shall be as per the design,
loading and site conditions. Segmental Precast Concrete Box cell can also be placed on the
prepared concrete bed of required strength.

3.9 The techniques for handling precast units should aim for successful fabrication ,
delivery and installation without causing structural damage, detrimental cracking, architectural
impairment or permanent distortion. A schematic sketch of a typical Box Cell is given in
Fig. 1. Different uses of a Precast Concrete Box Culvert are shown in Figs. 2, 3 and 4.

Top Slob
,_r-- \ . r-

.I r-- Wall
I
I
1-
- _/
-· .
I
--
Bottom Slob I
BOX
Fig. 1 Typical PCBC with Reinforcement and Haunches at Corners

Fig. 2 Cattle passing through Box Culvert

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IRC:122-2017

Fig. 3 Storm Water passing through Box Culvert

Fig. 4 Box Culvert as Underpass

3.10 The aggregates shall be sized, proportioned and mixed with such proportions
of cementitious materials and water as will produce a thoroughly-mixed concrete of such
quality that the box will conform to design requirements. All concrete shall have a water -
cementitious material ratio not exceeding 0.45 by weight.

3.11 The box sections shall be cured for a sufficient length of time so that the concrete
will develop a specified compressive strength in 28 days or less. The concrete box shall be
cured by steam curing or water curing or membrane curing as specified in IRC: 112.
The base, sub-base and sub-grade shall also be as per the intended usage of box culvert,
traffic over it and invert level.

3.12 Precast Concrete Box Segments may be of different sizes and shapes. Figs. 5, 6
and 7 shows various shapes of segments commonly used in practice.

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 IRC:122-2017

Fig. 5 Elements of Precast Concrete Segmental Square Box Culvert

Fig. 6 Elements of Precast Concrete Segmental Rectangular Box Culvert

Fig. 7 Elements of Precast Concrete Segmental 'C' Section Box Culvert

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IRC:122-2017

3.13 Culverts shall be subject to loading as per design. The lifting system for precast
concrete box culverts shall be simple, based on available resources, consistent with the
design and without compromising quality (Figs. 8 and 9).

Fig. 8 Fig. 9
Figs. 8 & 9 Lifting System of Elements of Precast Concrete Segmental Culvert

4 CONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY

4.1 Types of Manufacturing Methods

There are two main methods of casting of PCBC. These are

i) Dry cast (Machine Made)
ii) Wet Cast

4.2 Dry Cast Method

In this method precast segments are cast using mechanized equipment. Form vibrators
consolidate zero-slump concrete between core and jacket. Hole formers can be incorporated,
or sometimes coring is resorted to as may be needed. The Precast Concrete segment is
immediately stripped and the form is reused. Segments are typically cured in a curing tank,
or moisture curing is used.

4.3 Wet Cast Method

In this method, the precast concrete segments are typically cast on using an inner and outer
form. Forms shall be cleaned of concrete build-up after each use.Biock outs/hole formers can
easily be incorporated before concreting. The segments are cast using conventional concrete
or self-consolidating concrete. Concrete cover shall not be less than that given in Table 1.
Precautions shall be taken to ensure that the reinforcement does not move significantly
during the casting operations. The segments are cured in the form.
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 IRC:122-2017

IS: 15916:2010 gives various accepted methods of manufacture of precast units. These have
been broadly classified as:
a) The 'Stand Method' where the moulds remain stationary at places, when
the various processes involved are carried out in a cyclic order at the same
/ place, and
b) The 'Flow Method' where the precast unit under consideration is in movement
according to the various processes involved in the work which are carried out
in an assembly-line method.
Any method which is suitable to the project and site requirements shall be adopted.

4.4 Curing methods

Moist/wet curing, steam curing or Membrane curing shall be adopted as per IRC:112

4.5 Identification and Marking

All precast units shall bear an indelible identification, location and orientation marks as and
where necessary. The date of manufacture shall also be marked on the segments. The
identification markings on the drawings shall be shown in a table on the setting schedule
together with the length, type, size of the unit and the sizes and arrangement of all reinforcement
for easy identification of the segment.

4.6 Dimensions of the precast segmental box unit shall conform to the design
requirements. The transportation/shifting of the pre-cast elements shall be carried out only
after achievement of minimum strength of 20 MPa or 0.7 times the compressive strength of
concrete. The strength of concrete shall be tested as per IS:516.

4. 7 The delivery and off loading of precast concrete box culverts segments should be
well planned. A suitable hard access that can be used safely by standard delivery vehicles
and a suitable crane of adequate capacity shall be provided in the casting yard. The pre-cast
concrete segments shall be properly cured to ensure achievement of appropriate strength.

4.8 Handling
Products shall be stored, handled shipped and unloaded in a manner to minimize damage.
The handling process encompasses the demoulding of the precast units, their loading and
transportation to storage areas, offloading and storage, transfer to site and site erection.
To avoid excessive stresses and possible damage, all precast units should be handled in
the manner as envisaged in their design by means of approved devices, identified in the
production and erection drawings.

4.9 Lifting Equipment, Accessories, Storage, Transportation and Installation

Lifting holes or inserts shall be consistent with industry standards. Lifting shall be
accomplished with methods or devices intended for this purpose Lifting equipment such as
mobile crane, gantry crane, forklift etc. must be carefully selected to ensure that lifting of

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IRC:122-2017

precast units is carried out within the rated capacity of the equipment. The support for the
lifting equipment must be checked to ensure that adequate supporting capacity is provided.
Lifting accessories may comprise combinations of lifting beams or frames, slings or cables,
hooks or shackles. The selection of each of these components should be predetermined to
take account of the forces exerted on them due to various aspects of the lifting operations. A
person suitably qualified in accordance with the relevant regulations must regularly inspect
all lifting equipment prior to and after use. Results of such inspections must be properly
recorded and be available for subsequent inspection. The location of lifting points should be
clearly indicated on the drawings. Lifting methods may differ from different manufacturers
and the same shall be agreed upon. Verticality or otherwise of the lifting ropes shall be as per
the design requirements. During operation of lifting and unloading the precast concrete box
culvert segment shall be protected from damage particularly the joining surfaces. Also, due
care shall be taken for safety of the crew during this operation.

4.9.1 Factory/Casting Yard and Site Storage

Storage areas must be large enough so that the precast units can be stored safely, with
adequate room for lifting equipment and transporting vehicles to manoeuvre. The ground of
the storage area must be hard, level, clean and well drained to permit organised storage.
Precast segments can be damaged by incorrect stacking and storage. Where the locations
of support points for a precast unit are critical, the locations for the supports should be noted
on the shop drawings.
Supports must be' arranged to avoid twisting or distorting of the precast segments and must
be adequate to transfer the weight of the stacked units to the ground without excessive
settlement.
The stored and stacked units should be protected to prevent accidental damage and
discolouration and the support material should be non-staining. Lifting points should also be
well protected and kept accessible while the units are in storage. Precast segments must be
stored safely with adequate supports such that it would not endanger any workers moving in
the vicinity.

4.9.2 Transportation

Commonly precasting yards are at a distance from the project site where in these segments are
to be used. Hence, it is necessary to transport them from casting yard to the construction site.
Transportation requirements will need to be met and permits, where applicable, obtained.
Transportation must comply with the appropriate regulations. The precast units should have
gained sufficient strength before being loaded for transportation.

4.9.3 Loading and Storage on Transporters

Precast units must be loaded carefully on to delivery vehicles to prevent damage. To protect
the edges throughout their journey, proper devices should be used to support, secure and
wedge the precast units. The units should be adequately secured and supported to prevent
them from overturning, shifting or being damaged during transportation. Adequate non-
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 IRC:122-2017

staining cushioning should be provided between the unit and any securing chains , cables or
ropes to prevent localised damage.
Precautions should also be taken to ensure that no undesirable stresses will be transmitted
to the precast unit due to any flexing of truck or trailer. Typical transportation vehicle is shown
in Figs. 10, 11 and 12.

~-.: ::- .

Fig. 10 Transportation of Sections of Box Culvert

Fig. 11 Transportation of Sections of Box Culvert

Fig 12 Transportation of Sections of Box Culvert

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IRC:122-2017

4.9.4 Erection Preparation

Consideration should be given to the following items to ensure safe and efficient installation of
the precast elements in accordance with the design intent. For designing erection of precast
concrete segments, provisions of Sub clause 11.10 of IS: 15916:2010 shall apply.
Propping and temporary support details
If the sequence of erection is critical to the structural stability of the structure, or for access to
connections at certain locations, it should be noted on the drawings. The erection drawings,
which should include all relevant information, should be prepared prior to the commencement
of any erection during Erection Safety.
Safety during the handling and erection of precast concrete elements is of paramount
importance and compliance with the relevant current regulations is required.
All equipment used for the handling and erection of a precast element must be maintained to
a high standard, load tested as necessary, and be suited to the intended use. Consideration
should also be given to the site environment particularly with regard to built up areas and
implications this may have on erection safety.
Erection sequence
Precast segments should be erected in accordance with a pre-planned sequence as detailed
in the erection drawings. This sequence of erection should be such that the multiple handling
of elements is 'minimised. A trial erection operation should be considered to identify any
unforeseen erection difficulties.

4.9.5 Missing or Damaged Lifting Inserts

If missing, faulty or incorrectly located lifting inserts are identified, the designer should be
contacted immediately to assess the problem and decide on an alternative lifting system.
It should be verified, where permanent fixings or connections are temporarily used during
construction, that the fixings are suitable for the temporary use and their long-term performance
will not be compromised.

Fig. 13 Lifting and Placing of Box Segment

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 IRC:122-2017

Erection tolerances

Generally, the precast unit should be erected in accordance with the stipulated tolerances,
used in !he design and specifications. Fig.13 shows some lifting and placing of Box Segments
I
4.9.6 Bedding Details

Bedding details for box segments shall be as designed and specified. Proper support for a
box culvert consists of specified bedding material having uniform flat surface as low or high
points could create stress concentrations in the box after installation. The box segment,
once installed, will not normally settle; it cannot be forced down to grade. Coarse bedding
materials are not beneficial due to their irregular shape and sharp angles; instead medium
to fine granular material should be used if concrete bedding is not used. A bedding thickness
shall not be less than 100 mm. The width of the bedding material should equal the width of
the box (span plus twice the wall thickness) and the length of the bedding material should
equal the length of the box. In the event that the levelling course consists of layers with the
upper layer being clean, uncompacted sand, that layer shall be a maximum thickness of 50
mm to prevent non-uniform settlement from personnel and equipment during the installation
process. If rock strata or boulders are encountered under the box section, the same shall
be removed and replaced with additional levelling course material. A concrete slab is not
considered as an appropriate leveling course.
The box will tend to pull some bedding material toward the connection as it is aligned with
the previous box segment. Excess bedding material trapped in the joint will prevent a proper
alignment and connection and hence should be prevented. Therefore, at the connection
end, a small trench should be dug. This allows for the bedding material to fall into the trench
instead of the joint when the box is pulled into place. All bedding material characteristics
should correspond to code and designer's plans for the specific project. Correct installation
requires that the box culvert be installed on properly graded bedding. Any discrepancies
in the installation of the culvert regarding bedding or grade should be addressed with the
designer for remedial action. Bedding below box is shown in Fig. 14.

Fig. 14 Bedding Below Precast Concrete Segmental Box Cell

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4.9. 7 Box Alignment during Installation

It is critical that the first box segment should be installed correctly as it will determine the line
and grade of the following boxes/segments. If these are not correct, future connections may
be affected. The trench/bed shall be checked for line and gradient.

4.9.8 Box Placement

A box culvert line shall be usually laid from downstream end and a suitable joint sealing
arrangement should be made. Placement of boxes should start at the outlet end of the line
of box sections. The bell end should point upstream and the spigot or tongue should point
downstream. Unless otherwise approved by the owner, loads from construction equipment
transferred to a box section before, during, or after fill placement, either directly or through the
fill, should not be greater than the loads assumed in the design. Using excavating machinery
for the purpose of pushing boxes into place should be avoided, since this could cause
cracking, requiring on-site repairing. Also, dropping or dragging the section over gravel or
rock shall be avoided. A proper foundation for construction equipment should be available on
site in order to ensure that no damage is caused to the levelling course and the sidewalls of
the excavation area. PCBC shall be placed properly on the constructed base. The base shall
be firm to avoid settlement of the units after loading. Bedding shall be properly designed.
Improper bedding could prevent the tongue of the box from being properly inserted into the
groove. It is very important that time be spent to ensure the box culvert bedding preparation
is done correctly. Placement of Box Segment is shown in Fig. 15

Fig. 15 Placing of Section of Box Culvert

4.9.9 Joints Sealing

Many methods for jointing and sealing are available. The joints and sealing of units shall be
as per the design or project requirements. The design of joints shall be made in the light of
their assessment with respect to feasibility, practicability, serviceability considerations as per
IS: 15916:2010.

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4.9.10 Normal joint is socket and spigot joint and same is generally used in culvert
construction. Jointing is important in reducing the migration of soil fines and water between
box sections and their surroundings. Depending on the use of the box culvert, various
material~ and methods may be used for sealing the joints. Box culverts specified for a soil-
tight joir.lt can be sealed between the joint with a bituminous mastic sealant. Either liquid butyl
(bulk mastic) or non-shrink grout can be added to the outside top slab and applied down the
sidewall 300 mm as well as applied to the inside bottom slab and inside sidewalls; or butyl
sealant 25 mm thick and placed on the inside bottom and halfway up the sides of the bell end
(approximately 13 mm from edge) and placed on the outside top and halfway down the sides
of the spigot end (approximately 13 mm) from edge can be used to seal a soil tight joint. In
cold weather it may be necessary to heat the butyl sealant with a hot water bath, bottle gas
torch, or both. Placing this joint material in a sunny location, just prior to use, will allow heat
absorption and make it more workable. Different grades of joint material are available for
different temperatures.
Another joint commonly used is an extruded sealant which is placed between the joints. The
extruded sealant can be applied in the same manner as the bituminous sealant, applied to
the bell and spigot end of the sections being joined. In some areas, rubber gasket box joints
may be available. Pre-made foam gaskets can also be used to seal joints. However these
forms of sealant will have to be manually attached to the bottom of the spigot end of the box
to prevent sagging. If the seal is insufficient then an added layer of adhesive joint wrap (butyl
rubber laminated to polyethylene vapour retarder) can be used on the outside of the box to
prevent infiltration. The external sealing band can also be non-woven geo-textile and should
be placed on the sides and top of the box after installation. In certain situations, all four sides
can be wrapped. In this case, the geo-textile material can be slipped under the box before it
is set, then the sides and top can be sealed after the box is in place.

4.9.11 Backfilling should commence as soon as possible after the Precast Concrete
Segmental box culverts have been placed by filling the trench evenly on both sides with a
drainage layer of min 600 mm thickness and rest by using approved materials in layers not
exceeding 200 mm. Backfill should be placed in uniform layers along the sides of the boxes
and over the top of the box sections wherever required. The backfill material should not
contain debris, organic matter, or large stones with a diameter greater than 1/2 the thickness
of the compacted layers being placed. When vibratory compactors are used to compact the
backfill material, care should be taken to avoid damage to the Box cell. In sections in cutting
where space is a constraint, the back filling shall be done with granular material like coarse
sand/gavel. Lift holes shall be properly sealed and plugged.

4.9.12 Construction machinery shall not be used over the box culvert without proper
protection. Care must be taken since site traffic and construction equipment over shallow
fill depths can impose loadings greater than those for which the finished box culvert has
been designed. If construction equipment is going to travel over installed box sections, a
temporary compacted backfill should be placed to a minimum of 1 m over the top of the box
section unless the box has been specifically designed for the anticipated construction loads.
The loads applied to the box section should not exceed those specified by the designer. In

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an embankment installation, the minimum amount of backfill should extend one box section
span or 1 m, whichever is larger, in each direction to prevent lateral displacement.

4.9.13 Box cell structures are to be provided with curtain walls and apron and these must
be completed before floods. The best practice is to lay foundations of curtain wall and apron
first and then lay the box. Apron pitching, toe walls etc shall be designed as per provisions of
IRC:SP:13.

4.9.14 Made up of separate segments that are assembled in the field to make the final
structure, segmental box sections are being used in building culverts for underground
conveyance of storm water. In addition, culverts can also function as pedestrian tunnels as
well as wildlife passage areas under heavily travelled highways.

4.9.15 Equipment used- Equipment used for precast concrete segments shall satisfy the
requirements stipulated in IS:15916:201 0

5 QUALITY MANAGEMENT

Quality Control

Fabrication precast segmental box culverts is simple and is generally done in the fabrication
yard or casting unit. It is necessary to have quality control system in place for all elements,
material and ingredients used in fabrication. Reference may be made to "Guidelines on Quality
Systems for Road Bridges", IRC:SP:47-1998. The specifications shall be in accordance with
"Specifications for Road and Bridge Works" of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
published by the Indian Roads Congress.

5.1 Factory

For a mass scale production, the factory for the casting of units must ensure that the precast
units are manufactured under a Quality Management System certified under ISO 9000
covering the following items:
• quality control tests of materials;
• calibration of laboratory equipment for quality control tests; and
• production process and control of equipment at the casting yard.
The factory and contractor shall be responsible for maintaining the quality of the manufacturing
process for the precast units. The authorised person/registered structural engineer must
satisfy himself that the precast concrete units have been constructed in accordance with
the approved drawings and specifications. This may be achieved by providing full time
construction supervision by their representative. If more stringent control on quality is
considered necessary, the authorized person/structural engineer may step up the supervisory
and testing requirements at appropriate place to test check the quality of the material and
finished product.

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Rigorous quality control procedures must be maintained at the precasting factory/casting

yard at all times to ensure that the precast segments are constructed in accordance with the
designs and specifications.
Upon leaVing the precasting factory/casting yard all precast segments or batch of segments
must carry documentation certified by the factory/casting yard stating that the segments have
been manufactured under a certified quality assurance scheme and in accordance with the
prescribed specifications.

5.2 Testing Standards

Concrete
Sampling and testing of concrete should comply with the IS: 1159 and IS: 516 and as required
by the contract documents. The testing is to be undertaken by equivalent approved accredited
laboratory.
Reinforcement
Reinforcing steel shall be of HYSD steel as per Table 18.1 of IRC:112. For seismic zones
Ill, IV and V, HYSD bars having minimum elongation of 14.5% and conforming to other
requirements of IS:1786 shall be used.
According to IRC:112, the corrosion resistance of reinforcing steel can be improved by
using (i) galvanised reinforcement with coating as per IS: 12594-1988, (ii) Epoxy coated
reinforcement conforming to IS: 13620-1993 or by (iii) stainless steel reinforcement conforming
to IS:6744:2001
Sampling and testing of reinforcement should comply with the IS code. All testing is to be
undertaken by equivalent approved accredited laboratory and in accordance with IS code or
contract specifications

5.3 Site
The receiving, lifting, storage and erection at the construction site should be undertaken in
accordance with the site accredited quality assurance scheme. The following items should
form part of the site checking for acceptance of the precast elements:
Structural integrity
Although quality control checks are carried out for the precast units at the factory, there is a
possibility of damage during handling and transportation. As the precast units are received
on site they should be visually inspected for any signs of structural defect. Acceptance of
any structural defect should be assessed with regard to the causes and the overall structural
integrity of the precast units.
Dimensional tolerance
Dimensional tolerances of the precast units as received on site should comply with those
specified in the contract documents. Changes to the dimensions and shapes of units should

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be identified and assessed with regard to the overall tolerance; and surface finish. Finished
segment tolerances should not exceed the following:
Length of segment (not cumulative): ±5mm
Overall span length : ±10 mm
Web thickness, depths of top and bottom flanges,
Width of top and bottom flanges, overall depth
of segment, thickness of diaphragm: ±5mm
Grade of form edge and soffit: ± 1.0 mm/m
The surface finishes of precast units when received on site should be checked for compliance
with the requirements of the contract documents.

6 PRECAUTIONS AND SAFETY MEASURES .

(i) Precast concrete segmental box shall be designed duly considering the
loads, forces, handling, lifting, transport arrangement on site etc.
(ii) The lifting of the precast segment from the casting yard shall not commence
unless the strength of the concrete achieved is checked and confirmed as
per design.
(iii) Lifting arrangement, ropes, anchors for segment shall be designed for weight
of segment, possible jerks, possible overloading etc.
(iv) During lifting and erection of the precast segment, workmen shall keep away
at safe distance from the hanging segment to avoid any accident.
(v) Care shall be taken while handling or placing the precast segment to protect
the edges, corners, shear keys etc.
(vi) Pulling of precast segments on the bed shall be avoided.
(vii) Uniform curing of the entire precast segment in the casting yard shall be
ensured.
(viii) Design and preparation of the bed supporting the Precast Segment shall
be done well in advance duly considering loads, forces to be sustained and
bearing capacity of the strata below.
(ix) Construction machinery shall not be permitted on the top of the segment
unless requisite earth cushion of 1.0 m is proved and loads are considered
in the designs.
(x) Precast concrete segment shall be carefully inspected and checked for any
cracks, spalling etc after casting as well as on placement on site.

7 MAINTENANCE

Precast box culvert requires little maintenance. However, routine pre and post-monsoon
inspections need to be carried out to check the condition of bedding, apron and other silt
deposition, scour, etc. Large box sections can be entered and examined. Timely action needs

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to be taken to rectify/repair the defects noticed. Some of the typical defects and remedial
actions are as given below:
• Debris shall be removed.
/ • Excessive cracks or large cracks noticed shall be repaired.
• Joints are properly sealed.
• The Invert shall be smooth and free of sags or high points.
• Lift holes are properly filled.
• Hook-ups, diversions and connections are properly made.
• Catch basins and inlets are properly connected.
• Manhole frames and covers are properly installed.
• Surface restoration and all other items pertinent to the construction are
properly completed.

8 BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. IS:456:2000 Code of Practice for Plain and Reinforced Concrete, BIS, New Delhi.
2. IS: 1199:1959 Methods of Sampling and Analysis of Concrete, BIS, New Delhi.
3. IS:383:2016 Specifications for Coarse and Fine Aggregates from Natural Sources
for Concrete, BIS, New Delhi.
4. IS:516:1959 Method of Test for Strength of Concrete, BIS, New Delhi.
5. IS:91 03:1999 Concrete Admixtures-Specification (First Revision), BIS, New Delhi.
6. IRC:SP:13-2004 "Guidelines for the Design of Small Bridges and Culverts", IRC,
New Delhi.
7. IRC:6-2017 "Code of Practice for Road Bridges, Section-11 Loads and Load
Combination", IRC, New Delhi.
8. IRC:78-2014 "Code of Practice for Road Bridges, Section-VII Foundation &
Substructure", IRC, New Delhi.
9. IRC: 112-2011 "Code of Practice for Concrete Road Bridges", IRC, New Delhi.
10. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (2013), Specifications for Road and
Bridge Works, IRC, New Delhi.
11. ASTM C 1433-16b, Standard Specifications for Precast Reinforced Concrete
Monolithic Box Sections for Culverts, Storm Drains, and Sewers, ASTM
International, Unites States.
12. B.N. Sinha and R.P Sharma (2009), "RCC Box Culvert- Methodology and Designs
Including Computer Method", Paper No : 555, Journal of the Indian Roads
Congress, October-December, p 189.
13. Concrete Pipe and Box Culvert Installation Guide, American Concrete Pipe
Association.
14. IRC:54-1974 "Lateral and Vertical Clearances at Underpasses for Vehicular
Traffic", IRC, New Delhi.

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(The Official amendments to this document would be published by
the I;RC in its periodical, 'Indian Highways' which shall be
considered as effective and as part of the Code/Guidelines/Manual,
etc. from the date specified therein)