TM 3-34.

55 (FM 5-233/4 Jan 1985)

CONSTRUCTION SURVEYING

August 2012
Publication of TM 3-34.55, 3 August 2012 supersedes FM 5-233, Construction Surveying, 4 January
1985. This special conversion to the TM publishing medium/nomenclature has been accomplished to
comply with TRADOC doctrine restructuring requirements. The title and content of TM 3-34.55 is
identical to that of the superseded FM 5-233.

This special conversion does not integrate any changes in Army doctrine since 4 January 1985 and does
not alter the publication’s original references; therefore, some sources cited in this TM may no longer
be current. For the status of official Department of the Army (DA) publications, consult DA Pam 25-
30, Consolidated Index of Army Publications and Blank Forms, at http://armypubs.army.mil/2530.html.
DA Pam 25-30 is updated as new and revised publications, as well as changes to publications are
published. For the content/availability of specific subject matter, contact the appropriate proponent.

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

This publication is available at Army Knowledge Online
https://armypubs.us.army.mil/doctrine/index.html.
 *TM 3-34.55 (FM 5-233)
This manual contains copyrighted material reproduced by permission of the American Railway Engineering
Association and the Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc.

Technical Manual Headquarters

No. 3-34.55 (5-233) Department of the Army
Washington, DC, 3 August 2012

Construction Surveying

Contents
Page
PREFACE.............................................................................................................vii
Chapter 1 SURVEY OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................... 1-1
Duties of the Construction Surveyor................................................................... 1-1
Accuracy of Surveys ........................................................................................... 1-1
Field Notes ......................................................................................................... 1-1
Metric System ..................................................................................................... 1-2
Chapter 2 ROAD SURVEYING ........................................................................................... 2-1
Section I – Reconnaissance Survey ............................................................... 2-1
Preparation and Scope ....................................................................................... 2-1
Collection of Data ............................................................................................... 2-2
Use of Maps ....................................................................................................... 2-2
Section II – Preliminary Survey ....................................................................... 2-3
Preparation and Scope ....................................................................................... 2-3
Personnel............................................................................................................ 2-3
Section III – Final Location Survey ................................................................. 2-4
Preparation and Scope ....................................................................................... 2-4
Running the Centerline ....................................................................................... 2-4
Reference Stakes ............................................................................................... 2-4
Profile and Cross Sections ................................................................................. 2-4
Section IV – Construction Layout Survey ...................................................... 2-5
Preparation And Scope ...................................................................................... 2-5
Alignment ............................................................................................................ 2-5
Setting Grade Stakes ......................................................................................... 2-5
Setting Slope Stakes .......................................................................................... 2-7
Culvert Location ................................................................................................ 2-10
Drainage ........................................................................................................... 2-10

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

*This manual supersedes FM 5-233, 4 January 1985.

i
Contents

Chapter 3 CURVES ............................................................................................................. 3-1

Section I – Simple Horizontal Curves ............................................................. 3-1
Curve Points........................................................................................................ 3-1
Types of Horizontal Curves ................................................................................. 3-1
Stationing ............................................................................................................ 3-2
Elements of a Simple Curve ............................................................................... 3-2
Simple Curve Formulas ...................................................................................... 3-7
Solution of a Simple Curve ................................................................................. 3-8
Comparison of Arc and Chord Definitions ........................................................ 3-11
Curve Layout ..................................................................................................... 3-11
Chord Corrections ............................................................................................. 3-13
Intermediate Stake ............................................................................................ 3-13
Section II - Obstacles to Curve Location ...................................................... 3-14
Terrain Restrictions ........................................................................................... 3-14
Curve Through Fixed Point ............................................................................... 3-18
Limiting Factors ................................................................................................. 3-19
Section III – Compound and Reverse Curves .............................................. 3-20
Compound Curves ............................................................................................ 3-20
Reverse Curves ................................................................................................ 3-23
Section IV – Transition Spirals ...................................................................... 3-28
Spiral Curves..................................................................................................... 3-28
Spiral Calculations ............................................................................................ 3-33
Spiral Curve Layout........................................................................................... 3-37
Section V – Vertical Curves ........................................................................... 3-40
Function and Types........................................................................................... 3-40
Computations .................................................................................................... 3-40
Chapter 4 EARTHWORK .................................................................................................... 4-1
Section I – Planning of Earthwork Operations............................................... 4-1
Importance .......................................................................................................... 4-1
Cross Sections .................................................................................................... 4-1
Section II – Areas .............................................................................................. 4-3
Area Computation ............................................................................................... 4-3
Area by Planimeter.............................................................................................. 4-8
Section III – Earth and Rock Excavation ........................................................ 4-9
Classes of Excavated Material............................................................................ 4-9
Borrow Pits ........................................................................................................ 4-10
Chapter 5 BRIDGE SURVEYING ........................................................................................ 5-1
Section I – Location .......................................................................................... 5-1
Surveys ............................................................................................................... 5-1
Reconnaissance.................................................................................................. 5-1
Soundings ........................................................................................................... 5-2
Foundation Investigation ..................................................................................... 5-2
Section II – Bridge Site Layout ........................................................................ 5-3
Abutments ........................................................................................................... 5-3
Wing Walls .......................................................................................................... 5-4

ii TM 3-34.55 3 August 2012

 Contents

Piers.................................................................................................................... 5-5
Piles .................................................................................................................... 5-6
Chapter 6 SITE LAYOUT .................................................................................................... 6-1
Section I – Building Layout ............................................................................. 6-1
Objectives ........................................................................................................... 6-1
Orientation .......................................................................................................... 6-1
Layout of a Simple Building ................................................................................ 6-1
Batter Boards ...................................................................................................... 6-2
Interior Transfer of Line and Grade .................................................................... 6-4
Section II – Utilities Layout .............................................................................. 6-4
Drainage ............................................................................................................. 6-4
Design and Location ........................................................................................... 6-5
Chapter 7 TRAVERSE ........................................................................................................ 7-1
Section I – Selection of Traverse .................................................................... 7-1
Definition ............................................................................................................. 7-1
Starting Control ................................................................................................... 7-1
Types of Traverse............................................................................................... 7-1
Section II – Field Survey .................................................................................. 7-3
Fieldwork ............................................................................................................ 7-3
Traverse Stations ............................................................................................... 7-4
Organization of Traverse Party .......................................................................... 7-4
Section III – Computations .............................................................................. 7-5
Azimuth Computation ......................................................................................... 7-5
Azimuth Adjustment............................................................................................ 7-6
Azimuth-Bearing Angle Relationship .................................................................. 7-7
Coordinate Computations ................................................................................... 7-9
Determination of dN and dE ............................................................................. 7-10
Accuracy and Specifications............................................................................. 7-11
Coordinate Adjustment ..................................................................................... 7-12
Appendix A TABLES ........................................................................................................... A-15
Appendix B SAMPLE NOTES (CONSTRUCTION SURVEY) ............................................... B-1
GLOSSARY .......................................................................................... Glossary-1
REFERENCES .................................................................................. References-1
INDEX .......................................................................................................... Index-1

Figures
Figure 2-1. Grade stakes ................................................................................................. 2-6
Figure 2-2. Setting slope stakes ...................................................................................... 2-8
Figure 2-3. Marking slope stakes .................................................................................... 2-9
Figure 2-4. Slope stakes (HI above grade elevation) ...................................................... 2-9
Figure 2-5. Slope stakes (HI below grade elevation) .................................................... 2-10
Figure 2-6. Layout of a culvert ....................................................................................... 2-11

3 August 2012 TM 3-34.55 iii

Contents

Figure 3-1. Horizontal curves ........................................................................................... 3-1

Figure 3-2. Elements of a simple curve ........................................................................... 3-3
Figure 3-3. Degree of curve ............................................................................................. 3-5
Figure 3-4. Deflection angles ........................................................................................... 3-7
Figure 3-5. Subchord corrections................................................................................... 3-13
Figure 3-6. Inaccessible PI ............................................................................................ 3-15
Figure 3-7. Inaccessible PC ........................................................................................... 3-16
Figure 3-8. Inaccessible PT ........................................................................................... 3-17
Figure 3-9. Obstacle on a curve..................................................................................... 3-18
Figure 3-10. Curve through a fixed point ....................................................................... 3-19
Figure 3-11. Compound curves ..................................................................................... 3-21
Figure 3-12. Reverse curve between successive PIs .................................................... 3-24
Figure 3-13. Reverse curve connecting parallel tangents ............................................. 3-25
Figure 3-14. Reverse curve connecting diverging tangents .......................................... 3-26
Figure 3-15. Simple curve connected to its tangent with spirals ................................... 3-30
Figure 3-16. Enlargement of spiral of figure 3-15 .......................................................... 3-31
Figure 3-17. Staking a spiral circular curve.................................................................... 3-37
Figure 3-18. Sample of spiral field notes ....................................................................... 3-40
Figure 3-19. Grade lines connected by a vertical curve ................................................ 3-42
Figure 3-20. Typical solution of a sag curve .................................................................. 3-44
Figure 3-21. Typical solution of a summit curve ............................................................ 3-44
Figure 4-1. Typical cross sections ................................................................................... 4-2
Figure 4-2. Area of irregular cross sections ..................................................................... 4-3
Figure 4-3. Subdividing cross sections ............................................................................ 4-4
Figure 4-4. Cross-section area by stripper method ......................................................... 4-5
Figure 4-5. Cross-section area by double-meridian-distance method ............................. 4-7
Figure 4-6. Polar planimeter ............................................................................................ 4-9
Figure 4-7. Typical grid layout for borrow pits ................................................................ 4-11
Figure 5-1. Taking soundings .......................................................................................... 5-3
Figure 5-2. Staking an abutment...................................................................................... 5-4
Figure 5-3. Staking wing walls ......................................................................................... 5-5
Figure 5-4. Locating piers ................................................................................................ 5-6
Figure 5-5. Positioning piles ............................................................................................. 5-7
Figure 6-1. Building layout ............................................................................................... 6-2
Figure 6-2. Batter boards ................................................................................................. 6-3
Figure 6-3. Sewer alignment ............................................................................................ 6-5
Figure 7-1. An open traverse ........................................................................................... 7-2
Figure 7-2. A loop traverse .............................................................................................. 7-3
Figure 7-3. Relationship of azimuth and bearing ............................................................. 7-8
Figure 7-4. Determination of a bearing angle .................................................................. 7-9
Figure 7-5. Requirements for dN and dE ......................................................................... 7-9

iv TM 3-34.55 3 August 2012

 Contents

Figure 7-6. Relationship by quadrant and sign.............................................................. 7-10

Figure 7-7. Traverse computation of a loop traverse .................................................... 7-11
Figure A-1. Solution of triangles .................................................................................. A-117
Figure B-1. Mailing label .................................................................................................. B-2
Figure B-2. Front page of notebook ................................................................................ B-3
Figure B-3. Index ............................................................................................................. B-4
Figure B-4. Differential leveling ....................................................................................... B-5
Figure B-5. Horizontal taping ........................................................................................... B-6
Figure B-6. Station angle traverse ................................................................................... B-7
Figure B-7. Station angle with horizontal closure ............................................................ B-8
Figure B-8. Deflection angle traverse .............................................................................. B-9
Figure B-9. Transit stadia-survey .................................................................................. B-10
Figure B-10. Plane table ................................................................................................ B-11
Figure B-11. Profile and cross-section leveling ............................................................. B-12
Figure B-12. Slope stakes ............................................................................................. B-13
Figure B-13. Horizontal curve layout ............................................................................. B-14
Figure B-14. Building layout .......................................................................................... B-15
Figure B-15. Sewer line ................................................................................................. B-16
Figure B-16. Height of an accessible point.................................................................... B-17
Figure B-17. Elevation/distance of an inaccessible point .............................................. B-18

Tables
Table 2-1. Road specifications ........................................................................................ 2-2
Table 3-1. Recommended superelevation and minimum transition lengths ................. 3-33
Table 3-2. Coefficients of a1 for deflection angles to chord points ................................ 3-39
Table A-1. Natural trigonometric functions .................................................................... A-16
Table A-2. Stadia reduction ......................................................................................... A-107
Table A-3. Conversion of minutes into decimals of a degree...................................... A-115
Table A-4. Useful constants and formulas .................................................................. A-117
Table A-5. Functions of 1° curves ............................................................................... A-124
Table A-6. Corrections for tangent and external distance ........................................... A-159
Table A-7. Deflections and chords for 25-, 50-, and 100-foot arcs ............................. A-160
Table A-8. Squares, cubes, square roots, and cube roots .......................................... A-162
Table A-9. Functions of the 10-chord spiral ................................................................ A-173
Table A-10. Subchord corrections (chord definition) ................................................... A-178
Table A-11. Subchord corrections (arc definition) ....................................................... A-179
Table A-12. Temperature conversion table ................................................................. A-180
Table A-13. Conversion of meters to feet .................................................................... A-181
Table A-14. Conversion of feet to meters.................................................................... A-185

3 August 2012 TM 3-34.55 v

 Acknowledgements
Acknowledgement is made to the following associations and companies for their permission to use in this
manual the text and tables listed below.
Pages 3-25 through 3-28 and table A-9, Functions of the Ten-Chord Spiral, from A.R.E.A. Manual, Volume I.
Copyright 1911 and 1950 by the American Railway Engineering Association. Reprinted by permission of the
American Railway Engineering Association.
Table A-7, Deflections and Chords for 25-, 50-, and 100-Foot Arcs, from Route Surveys and Constructions by
Harry Rubey. Copyright 1956 by Harry Rubey. Reprinted by permission of the Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc.

vi TM 3-34.55 3 August 2012

 Preface
PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This manual is a guide for engineering personnel conducting surveys in support of military construction. In
addition to mathematical considerations, this manual offers a comprehensive analysis of problems which are
typical in military surveying. It may be used for both training and reference.

APPLICATION
The material contained in this manual is applicable without modification to both nuclear and nonnuclear
warfare.

USER INFORMATION
Users of this publication are encouraged to recommend changes and submit comments for its improvement.
Comments should be keyed to the specific page, paragraph, and line of text in which the change is
recommended. Reasons will be provided for each comment to insure understanding and complete evaluation.
Comments should be prepared using DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank
Forms), and forwarded directly to the Commandant, US Army Engineer School, ATTN: ATZA-TD-P, Fort
Belvoir, Virginia 22060-5291.

3 August 2012 TM 3-34.55 vii

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 Chapter 1
Survey Objectives
DUTIES OF THE CONSTRUCTION SURVEYOR
1-1. In support of construction activities, the surveyor obtains the reconnaissance and preliminary data
which are necessary at the planning stage. During the construction phase, the surveyor supports the effort
as needed. Typical duties of the construction surveyor include—
 Determining distances, areas, and angles.
 Establishing reference points for both horizontal and vertical control.
 Setting stakes or otherwise marking lines, grades, and principal points.
 Determining profiles of the ground along given lines (centerlines and/or crosssection lines) to
provide data for cuts, fills, and earthwork volumes.
 Preparing large-scale topographic maps using plane table or transit-stadia data to provide
information for drainage and site design.
 Laying out structures, culverts, and bridge lines.
 Determining the vertical and horizontal placement of utilities.

ACCURACY OF SURVEYS
1-2. The precision of measurements varies with the type of work and the purpose of a survey. Location
surveys require more accuracy than reconnaissance surveys, and the erection of structural steel requires
greater precision in measurement than the initial grading of a roadbed.
1-3. The officer or NCO in charge of a project usually determines the degree of accuracy. The surveyor
makes a practical analysis and chooses appropriate methods and procedures for each type of measurement.
The surveyor must consider the allowable time, the tactical situation, the capabilities of construction forces,
and the current conditions. The best surveyor is the one who runs a survey to the order of precision which is
required by the job with a minimum of time, not the one who insists on extreme precision at all times.
1-4. Surveyors must always be on the alert for probable cumulative or systematic errors, which could be
the result of maladjustment or calibration of equipment or error-producing practices. Laying out the
foundations for certain types of machinery and establishing angular limits for fire on training ranges are
examples of conditions which might demand a high degree of precision from the surveyor.
1-5. For the most part, the construction surveyor will not have to work to the most precise limits of the
equipment. However, the surveyor should recognize the limits of the validity in the results. The surveyor
cannot expect resultant data to have a greater degree of accuracy than that of the least precise measurement
involved. The surveyor must analyze both angular and linear measurements, which are a part of the survey
problem, in order to maintain comparable precision throughout.

FIELD NOTES
1-6. The quality and character of the surveyor’s field notes are as important as the use of instruments. The
comprehensiveness, neatness, and reliability of the surveyor’s field notes measure ability. Numerical data,
sketches, and explanatory notes must be so clear that they can be interpreted in only one way, the correct
way. Office entries, such as computed or corrected values, should be clearly distinguishable from original
material. This is often done by making office entries in red ink. Some good rules to follow in taking field
notes are—
 Use a sharp, hard pencil (4H preferred).

3 August 2012 TM 3-34.55 1-1

Chapter 1

 Do not crowd the data entered. Use additional pages.

 Keep sketches plain and uncluttered.
 Record numerical values so they always indicate the degree of precision to which a measurement
is taken. For example, rod readings taken to the nearest 0.01 foot should be recorded as 5.30 feet,
not as 5.3 feet.
 Use explanatory notes to supplement numerical data and sketches. These notes often replace
sketches and are usually placed on the right-hand page on the same line as the numerical data
they explain.
 Follow the basic note-keeping rules covered in TM 5-232.

METRIC SYSTEM
1-7. The military surveyor may work from data based upon the metric system of measurement or convert
data into metric equivalents. Tables A-13 and A-14 in appendix A, pages A-168 through A-175, provide
metric conversions.

1-2 TM 3-34.55 3 August 2012

 Chapter 2
Road Surveying
SECTION I – RECONNAISSANCE SURVEY

PREPARATION AND SCOPE

2-1. The reconnaissance survey is an extensive study of an entire area that might be used for a road or
airfield. Its purpose is to eliminate those routes or sites which are impractical or unfeasible and to identify
the more promising routes or sites.
2-2. Existing maps and aerial photographs may be of great help. Contour maps show the terrain features
and the relief of an area. Aerial photographs show up-to-date planimetric details.
2-3. The reconnaissance survey must include all possible routes and sites. The reconnaissance survey
report should summarize all the collected information, including a description of each route or site, a
conclusion on the economy of its use, and, where possible, appropriate maps and aerial photographs.

DESIGN
2-4. Design and military characteristics should be considered during the reconnaissance survey. Keep in
mind that future operations may require an expanded road net. A study of the route plans and specifications
is necessary. If these are unavailable, use the following as guides.
 Locate portions of the new road along or over existing roads, railroads, or trails, whenever
possible.
 Locate the road on high-bearing-strength soil that is stable and easily drained, avoiding swamps,
marshes, and organic soil.
 Locate the road along ridges and streamlines, keeping drainage structures to a minimum. Keep
the grade well above the high waterline when following a stream.
 Select a route as near to sources of material as practical, and locate the road along contour lines
to avoid unnecessary earthwork.
 Locate the road on the sunny side of hills and canyons, and on that side of the canyon wall where
the inclination of the strata tends to support the road rather than cause the road to slide into the
canyon.
 Locate roads in forward combat zones so that they are concealed and protected from enemy fire.
This may at times conflict with engineering considerations.
 Select locations which conserve engineer assets, avoiding rockwork and excessive clearing.
 Avoid sharp curves and locations which involve bridging.

ROADWAY CRITERIA
2-5. To insure satisfactory results, study the engineering specifications of the road to be built. If these are
not available, use the information provided in table 2-1, page 2-2.

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Chapter 2

Table 2-1. Road specifications

WIDTHS SIGHT DISTANCES
One-way road—11.5 feet or 3.5 meters minimum. Absolute nonpassing minimum—200 feet or 60 meters.
Two-way road— 23 feet or 7.0 meters minimum. Absolute passing minimum—350 feet or 110 meters.
Shoulders (each side)—4 feet or 1.5 meters minimum. SLOPES
Clearing—6 feet or 2 meters each side of roadway. Shoulders—¾ inch per foot (in/ft) or 6 percent.
GRADES Crown {gravel and dirt)—½ to ¾ in/ft or 4 to 6 percent
Absolute maximum—determined by the lowest maximum Crown (paved)—¼ to ½ in/ft or 2 to 4 percent.
gradeability of vehicles using the road.
Normal maximum—10 percent. Cut and fill—variable, but normally about 1 ½ to 1
Desired maximum—less than 6 percent; on sharp curves, DRAINAGE
loss than 4 percent.
HORIZONTAL CURVES Take advantage of natural drainage.
Desired minimum radius—150 feet or 46 meters. Locate above high waterline near streams or creeks.
Absolute minimum radius—80 feet or 25 meters. Grade at least 5 feet or 1.6 meters above groundwater
table.
VERTICAL CURVES TRAFFIC
Minimum length on hill summits—125 feet or 40 meters par Overhead clearance—14 feet or 4.3 meters minimum.
4 percent algebraic difference in grades.
Minimum length in hollows—100 feet or 30 meters per 4 Traffic volume—2,000 vehicles per lane per day.
percent algebraic difference in grades.
Load capacity—sustain 18,000 pound equivalent axle
load.
Turnouts (single lane—minimum every ¼ mile or 0.4
kilometers recommended.

COLLECTION OF DATA
2-6. Upon completion, the reconnaissance survey should support the routes surveyed and provide a basis
of study showing the advantages and disadvantages of all routes reconnoitered. Typical data collected in a
reconnaissance survey are—
 Sketches of all routes reconnoitered.
 Reports of feasible routes. Data on clearing and grubbing.
 The number of stream crossings involving bridge spans exceeding 20 feet or 6 meters.
 The approximate number of culverts and spans less than 20 feet or 6 meters.
 Descriptions and sizes of marsh areas and other natural obstacles.
 Unusual grade and alignment problems encountered.
 Anticipated effects of landslides, melting snow, and rainfall.
 Soil conditions and stream and substrata conditions at proposed bridge sites.
 Discrepancies noted in maps or aerial photographs.
 Availability of local materials, equipment, transportation facilities, and labor.
 Photographs or sketches of reference points, control points, structure sites, terrain obstacles, and
any unusual conditions.

USE OF MAPS
2-7. The procurement of maps is a very important phase of the reconnaissance. The surveyor should
locate and use all existing maps, including up-to-date aerial photographs of the area to be reconnoitered.
Large scale topographic maps are desirable because they depict the terrain in the greatest detail. The maps,
with overlays, serve as worksheets for plotting trial alignments and approximate grades and distances.

2-2 TM 3-34.55 3 August 2012

 Road Surveying

2-8. The surveyor begins a map study by marking the limiting boundaries and specified terminals directly
on the map. Between boundaries and specified terminals, the surveyor observes the existing routes, ridge
lines, water courses, mountain gaps, and similar control features. The surveyor must also look for terrain
which will allow moderate grades, simplicity of alignment, and a balance between cut and fill.
2-9. After closer inspection, the routes that appear to fit the situation are classified. As further study
shows disadvantages of each route, the surveyor lowers the classification. The routes to be further
reconnoitered in the field are marked using pencils of different colors to denote priority or preference.
Taking advantage of the existing terrain conditions to keep excavation to a minimum, the surveyor
determines grades, estimates the amount of clearing to be done on each route, and marks stream crossings
and marsh areas for possible fords, bridges, or culvert crossings.

SECTION II – PRELIMINARY SURVEY

PREPARATION AND SCOPE

2-10. The preliminary survey is a detailed study of a route tentatively selected on the basis of
reconnaissance survey information and recommendations. It runs a traverse along a pro-posed route,
establishes levels, records topography, and plots results. It also determines the final location from this plot
or preliminary map. The size and scope of the project will determine the nature and depth of the
preliminary survey for most military construction.

PERSONNEL
2-11. The survey effort establishes a traverse with control and reference points, or it may expand to include
leveling and topographic detail. Normally, obtaining the traverse, leveling, and topographic data are
separate survey efforts, but this does not preclude combining them to make the most efficient use of
personnel and equipment.

TRAVERSE PARTY
2-12. The traverse party establishes the traverse line along the proposed route by setting and referencing
control points, measuring distances, numbering stations, and establishing points of intersection. The party
also makes the necessary ties to an existing control, if available or required. When no control is available,
the party may assign a starting value for control purposes which can later be tied to a control point
established by geodetic surveyors.

LEVEL PARTY
2-13. The level party establishes benchmarks and determines the elevation of selected points along the
route to provide control for future surveys, such as the preparation of a topographic map or profile and
cross-section leveling. The level party takes rod readings and records elevations to the nearest 0.01 foot or
0.001 meter. It sets the benchmarks in a place well out of the area of construction and marks them in such a
way that they will remain in place throughout the whole project.
2-14. If there is no established vertical control point available, establish an arbitrary elevation that may be
tied to a vertical control point later. An assigned value for an arbitrary elevation must be large enough to
avoid negative elevations at any point on the project.

TOPOGRAPHIC PARTY
2-15. The topographic party secures enough relief and planimetric detail within the prescribed area to
locate any obstacles and allow preparation of rough profiles and cross sections. Computations made from
the data determine the final location. The instruments and personnel combinations used vary with survey
purpose, terrain, and available time. A transit-stadia party, plane table party, or combination of both may be
used.

3 August 2012 TM 3-34.55 2-3

Chapter 2

Transit-Stadia Party
2-16. The transit-stadia party is effective in open country where comparatively long, clear sights can be
obtained without excessive brush cutting.

Plane Table Party

2-17. The plane table party is used where terrain is irregular. For short route surveys, the procedure is
much the same as in the transit-stadia method, except that the fieldwork and the drawing of the map are
carried on simultaneously.

SECTION III – FINAL LOCATION SURVEY

PREPARATION AND SCOPE

2-18. Prior to the final location survey, office studies consisting of the preparation of a map from
preliminary survey data, projection of a tentative alignment and profile, and preliminary estimates of
quantities and costs are made and used as guidance for the final location phase. The instrument party
carefully establishes the final location in the field using the paper location prepared from the preliminary
survey. The surveyor should not make any changes without the authority of the officer-in-charge.

RUNNING THE CENTERLINE

2-19. The centerline may vary from the paper due to objects or conditions that were location not previously
considered. The final center line determines all the construction lines. The surveyor marks the stations, runs
the levels, and sets the grades.
2-20. The centerline starts at station 0+00. The surveyor numbers the stations consecutively and sets them
at the full 100-foot or 30-meter stations. The surveyor also sets stakes at important points along the
centerline. These may be culvert locations, road intersections, beginnings and ends of curves, or breaks in
the grade. When measurements are made in feet, these stations are numbered from the last full station
(+00). They are called plus stations. A station numbered 4+44.75 would be 44.75 feet away from station
4+00 and 444.75 feet from the beginning of the project.
2-21. When using the metric system, the total distance from the beginning of the project would be 135.56
meters and would be numbered 135.56.

REFERENCE STAKES
2-22. Referencing of stations is described in TM 5-232. The control points established by the location
survey determine the construction layout. Therefore, these points must be carefully referenced. The
surveyor should set the control point references far enough from the construction to avoid disturbance.

PROFILE AND CROSS SECTIONS

2-23. After the centerline of the road, including the horizontal curves, has been staked, the next step in the
road layout is the determination of elevations along the centerline and laterally across the road. The
surveyor performs these operations, known as profile leveling and cross-section leveling, as separate
operations but at the same time as the elevation of points along a centerline or other fixed lines.
2-24. The interval usually coincides with the station interval, but shorter intervals may be necessary due to
abrupt changes in terrain. The plotting of centerline elevations is known as a profile. From this profile, the
design engineer determines the grade of the road.
2-25. The cross-section elevations make it possible to plot views of the road across the road at right angles.
These plotted cross sections determine the volume of earthwork to be moved. The surveyor establishes the

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cross-section lines at regular stations, at any plus station, and at intermediate breaks in the ground and lays
out the short crosslines by eye and long crosslines at a 90-degree angle to the centerline with an instrument.
2-26. All elevations at abrupt changes or breaks in the ground are measured with a rod and level, and
distances from the centerline are measured with a tape. In rough country, the surveyor uses the hand level
to obtain cross sections if the centerline elevations have been determined using the engineer level.

SECTION IV – CONSTRUCTION LAYOUT SURVEY

PREPARATION AND SCOPE

2-27. The construction layout is an instrument survey. It provides the alignment, grades, and locations
which guide the construction operations. The construction operations include clearing, grubbing, stripping,
drainage, rough grading, finish grading, and surfacing. The command must keep the surveyors sufficiently
ahead of the construction activity in both time and distance to guarantee uninterrupted progress of the
construction effort. Note the following suggested distances.
 Keep centerline established 1,500 feet or 450 meters ahead of clearing and grubbing.
 Keep rough grade established and slope stakes set 1,000 feet or 300 meters ahead of stripping
and rough grading.
 Set stakes to exact grade, 500 feet or 150 meters ahead of finish grading and surfacing.

ALIGNMENT
2-28. The surveyor must place the alignment markers ahead of the crews engaged in the various phases of
construction. The surveyor may do a hasty alignment, marked by flags and rods, suitable for guiding the
clearing and grubbing operations. However, a deliberate location of the centerline is necessary for the final
grading and surfacing operations.
2-29. The surveyor marks the curves and minor structures concurrently with the layout of the centerline.
Major structures such as tunnels and bridges involve a site survey. The general demarcation of the site
boundaries is carried on with the establishment of the route alignment. The layout of the site proper is a
separate survey.

SETTING GRADE STAKES

2-30. Grade stakes indicate the exact grade elevation to the construction force. The surveyor consults the
construction plans to determine the exact elevation of the subgrade and the distance from the centerline to
the edges of the shoulder.

PRELIMINARY SUBGRADE STAKES

2-31. The surveyor sets preliminary subgrade stakes on the centerline and other grade lines, as required.
First, the surveyor determines the amount of cut or fill required at the centerline station. The amount of cut
or fill is equal to the grade rod minus the ground rod. The grade rod is equal to the height of instrument
minus the subgrade elevation at the station. The ground rod is the foresight reading at the station. If the
result of this computation is a positive value, it indicates the amount of cut required. If it is negative, it
indicates the amount of fill.
2-32. For example, given a height of instrument (HI) of 115.5 feet, a subgrade elevation of 108.6 feet, and
a ground rod reading of 3.1 feet, the grade rod = 115.5 feet -108.6 = +6.9 and cut or fill = 6.9 -3.1 = +3.8,
indicating a cut of 3.8 feet. The surveyor records the result in the field notes and on the back of the grade
stake as C38 (figure 2-1, page 2-6, example a).

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Figure 2-1. Grade stakes

2-33. Sometimes, it is necessary to mark stakes to the nearest whole or half foot to assist the earthmoving
crew. In the example given, the surveyor would measure up 0.2 foot on the stake and mark it as in figure
2-1, example b. If at this stake a fill of 3.8 feet was required, the surveyor would measure up 0.3 foot and
mark the stake as in figure 2-1, example c. Figure 2-1, example d, shows a case where the actual subgrade
alignment could be marked on the stake. The number under the cut or fill represents the distance the stake
is from the road centerline. The surveyor normally makes rod readings and computations to the nearest 0.1
foot or 0.01 meter.
2-34. During rough grading operations, the construction crew determines the grades for the edges of the
traveled way, roadbed, and ditch lines. However, if the road is to be superelevated or is in rough terrain, the
survey crew must provide stakes for all grade lines. These would include the centerline, the edge of the
traveled way, the edges of the roadbed, and possibly, the centerline of the ditches. The surveyor sets those
stakes by measuring the appropriate distance off the centerline and determines the amount of cut or fill as
outlined. The surveyor offsets the stakes along the traveled way, roadbed, and ditches to avoid their being
destroyed during grading operations. The construction foreman, not the surveyor, makes the decision as to
how many and where grade stakes are required.

FINAL GRADE STAKES

2-35. Once the rough grading is completed, the surveyor sets the final grade stakes (blue tops). The
elevation of the final grade is determined and the value of the grade rod reading is computed. The surveyor
uses a rod target to set the grade rod reading on the rod. The rod is held on the top of the stake. The stake is
driven into the ground until the horizontal crosshair bisects the target and the top of the stake is at final
grade. The surveyor marks the top of the stake with a blue lumber crayon to distinguish it from other
stakes.

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2-36. The surveyor should provide blue tops on all grade lines. However, the final decision as to what
stakes are required lies with the construction foreman. To set final grade, the surveyor normally makes rod
readings and computations to 0.01 foot or 0.001 meter.

SPECIAL CASES
2-37. Where grade stakes cannot be driven, as in hard coral or rock areas, the surveyor must use ingenuity
to set and preserve grade markings under existing conditions. Often, such markings are made on the rock
itself with a chisel or a lumber crayon.

SETTING SLOPE STAKES

2-38. Slope stakes indicate the intersection of cut or fill slopes with the natural groundline. They indicate
the earthwork limits on each side of the centerline.

LEVEL SECTION
2-39. When the ground is level transversely to the centerline of the road, the cut or fill at the slope stake
will be the same as at the center, except for the addition of the crown. On fill sections, the distance from the
center stake to the slope stake is determined by multiplying the center cut by the ratio of the slope (for
example, horizontal distance to vertical distance) of the side slopes and adding one half the width of the
roadbed. On cut sections, the surveyor can find the distance from the center stake to the slope stake by
multiplying the ratio of slope by the center cut and adding the distance from the centerline to the outside
edge of the ditch.
2-40. In either case, if the ground is level, the slope stake on the right side of the road will be the same
distance from the centerline as the one on the left side of the road. On superelevated sections, the surveyor
must add the widening factor to determine the distance from the centerline to the slope stake. This is
because the widening factor is not the same for both sides of the road, and the slope stakes will not be the
same distance from the centerline.

TRANSVERSELY SLOPING GROUND

2-41. When the ground is not level transversely, the cut or fill will be different for various points
depending upon their distance from the centerline. The surveyor must determine the point, on each side of
the centerline, whose distance from the center is equal to the cut or fill at that point multiplied by the slope
ratio and added to one half the roadbed width for fills, and the slope ratio multiplied by the distance from
the centerline to the outside of the ditches for cuts.
2-42. A trial and error method must be used. The surveyor will soon attain proficiency in approximating
the correct position of the slope stake, and the number of trials can generally be reduced to two or three.
The surveyor will mark the cut or fill on the slope stake and record it in the notebook as the numerator of a
fraction whose denominator is the distance out from the centerline. Three-level, five-level, and irregular
sections present this problem. Figures 2-2 through 2-5, pages 2-8 through 2-10, illustrate the procedure
involved in setting slope stakes on sloping ground for three typical cases.

CUT SECTION
2-43. The cut section in figure 2-2 has the level set up with an HI of 388.3 feet. The subgrade elevation at
this centerline station is set at 372.5 feet for a 23-foot roadbed with 1.5:1 side slopes, 4-foot shoulders, and
7-foot ditches. The “grade rod” is the difference between these two elevations or 388.3 -372.5 = +15.8 feet.
The rodman now holds the rod on the ground at the foot of the center grade stake and obtains a reading of
6.3 feet, a “ground rod.” The recorder subtracts 6.3 from the grade rod of 15.8, which gives +9.5 feet or a
center cut of 9.5 feet. On slope stakes, the cut or fill and the distance out from the centerline are written
facing the center of the road. The backs of the slope stakes show the station and the slope ratio to be used.
2-44. The recorder estimates the trial distance by multiplying the cut at the centerline (9.5) by the slope
ratio (1.5) and adding the distance from the centerline to the outside edge of the ditch (22.5).

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Chapter 2

9.5 x 1.5+ 22.5= 36.8 (to the nearest tenth of a foot)

Figure 2-2. Setting slope stakes

2-45. The rodman now moves to the right at right angles to the centerline the trial distance (36.8 feet). The
rod is held at A and a reading of 9.1 is obtained, which, when subtracted from the grade rod of 15.8, gives a
cut of 6.7 feet. The recorder then computes what the distance from the centerline to A should be. This is
done by multiplying the cut of 6.7 by the slope ratio and adding one half the roadbed width, which gives
32.6 feet.
2-46. However, the distance to A was measured as 36.8 feet instead of 32.6, so the position at A is too far
from the centerline. Another trial is made by moving the rod to 32.6 feet from the centerline (B), where a
reading of 8.9 is made. The cut at B is now 15.8- 8.9= +6.9, and the calculated distance from the center is
6.9 x 1.5 + 22.5 = 32.8 feet. The distance actually measured is 32.8 feet. Therefore, B is the correct location
of the slope stake and is marked C69. Since moving the rod one or two tenths of a foot would not materially
change its reading, greater accuracy is unnecessary. After a few trials, the rodman locates the slope stake on
the left in a similar manner. The instrumentman verifies the figures by computation. When placed in the
ground, the stakes will appear as in figure 2-3.

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 Road Surveying

Figure 2-3. Marking slope stakes

FILL SECTION (HI ABOVE GRADE ELEVATION)

2-47. Figure 2-4 illustrates a fill with the HI of the level set up above the subgrade elevation of the 31-foot
roadbed. In this case, the grade rod will always be less, numerically, than rod readings on the ground. The
grade rod in this problem is +2.8; the rod reading at the center stake is 6.5; and the difference is 2.8-6.5=
-3.7 feet. The minus sign indicates a center fill. The rodman finds the positions of the slope stakes by trial,
as previously explained.

Figure 2-4. Slope stakes (HI above grade elevation)

FILL SECTION (HI BELOW GRADE ELEVATION)

2-48. Figure 2-5, page 2-10, illustrates a fill with the HI of the level below the grade elevation of the future
roadbed. Therefore, the grade rod has a negative value. Adding the negative ground rod to the negative
grade rod will give a greater negative value for the fill. For example, at the center stake, the fill equals
(-2.40 meters) + (-2.35 meters) or -4.75 meters. Otherwise, this case is similar to the preceding ones.

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Chapter 2

Figure 2-5. Slope stakes (HI below grade elevation)

CULVERT LOCATION
2-49. To establish the layout of a site such as a culvert, the surveyor locates the intersection of the roadway
centerline and a line defining the direction of the culvert. Generally, culverts are designed to conform with
natural drainage lines. The surveyor places stakes to mark the inlet and outlet points, and any cut or fill, if
needed, is marked on them. The construction plans for the site are carefully followed, and the alignment
and grade stakes are set on the centerlines beyond the work area. Thus, any line stake which is disturbed or
destroyed during the work can be replaced easily.
2-50. The surveyor should also set a benchmark near the site, but outside of the work area, to reestablish
grades. Figure 2-6 shows a typical layout for a culvert site. Circumstances or practical considerations may
dictate that certain types of surveys will be eliminated or combined. For example, the location and
construction surveys may be run simultaneously. (Refer to TM 5-330.)

DRAINAGE
2-51. The construction of drainage facilities is an important part of any project. The surveyor must
anticipate drainage problems and gather enough field data to indicate the best design and location for
needed drainage structures. (Refer to TM 5-330.)
2-52. The problem of adequate drainage is important to the location, design, and construction of almost
any type of military installation. Proper drainage is of primary importance with respect to the operational
requirements and the desired useful life of an installation. Inadequate drainage causes most road and
airfield failures. The surveyor must see that these and similar facilities are well drained to function
efficiently during inclement weather. Temporary drainage during construction operations cannot be ignored
since it is vital to prevent construction delays due to standing water or saturated working areas.
2-53. Proper drainage is an essential part of road construction. Poor drainage results in mud, washouts, and
heaves, all of which are expensive in terms of delays and repairs to both roads and vehicles.

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Figure 2-6. Layout of a culvert

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 Chapter 3
Curves
SECTION I – SIMPLE HORIZONTAL CURVES

CURVE POINTS
3-1. By studying TM 5-232, the surveyor learns to locate points using angles and distances. In
construction surveying, the surveyor must often establish the line of a curve for road layout or some other
construction.
3-2. The surveyor can establish curves of short radius, usually less than one tape length, by holding one
end of the tape at the center of the circle and swinging the tape in an arc, marking as many points as
desired.
3-3. As the radius and length of curve increases, the tape becomes impractical, and the surveyor must use
other methods. Measured angles and straight line distances are usually picked to locate selected points,
known as stations, on the circumference of the arc.

TYPES OF HORIZONTAL CURVES

3-4. A curve may be simple, compound, reverse, or spiral (figure 3-1). Compound and reverse curves are
treated as a combination of two or more simple curves, whereas the spiral curve is based on a varying
radius.

Figure 3-1. Horizontal curves

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Chapter 3

Figure 3-1. Horizontal curves (continued)

SIMPLE
3-5. The simple curve is an arc of a circle. It is the most commonly used. The radius of the circle
determines the “sharpness” or “flatness” of the curve. The larger the radius, the “flatter” the curve.

COMPOUND
3-6. Surveyors often have to use a compound curve because of the terrain. This curve normally consists
of two simple curves curving in the same direction and joined together.

REVERSE
3-7. A reverse curve consists of two simple curves joined together but curving in opposite directions. For
safety reasons, the surveyor should not use this curve unless absolutely necessary.

SPIRAL
3-8. The spiral is a curve with varying radius used on railroads and some modern highways. It provides a
transition from the tangent to a simple curve or between simple curves in a compound curve.

STATIONING
3-9. On route surveys, the surveyor numbers the stations forward from the beginning of the project. For
example, 0+00 indicates the beginning of the project. The 15+52.96 would indicate a point 1,552,96 feet
from the beginning. A full station is 100 feet or 30 meters, making 15+00 and 16+00 full stations. A plus
station indicates a point between full stations. (15+52.96 is a plus station.) When using the metric system,
the surveyor does not use the plus system of numbering stations. The station number simply becomes the
distance from the beginning of the project.

ELEMENTS OF A SIMPLE CURVE

3-10. Figure 3-2 shows the elements of a simple curve. They are described as follows, and their
abbreviations are given in parentheses.

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 Curves

POINT OF INTERSECTION (PI)

3-11. The point of intersection marks the point where the back and forward tangents intersect. The
surveyor indicates it one of the stations on the preliminary traverse.

Figure 3-2. Elements of a simple curve

INTERSECTING ANGLE (I)

3-12. The intersecting angle is the deflection angle at the PI. The surveyor either computes its value from
the preliminary traverse station angles or measures it in the field.

RADIUS (R)
3-13. The radius is the radius of the circle of which the curve is an arc.

POINT OF CURVATURE (PC)

3-14. The point of curvature is the point where the circular curve begins. The back tangent is tangent to the
curve at this point.

POINT OF TANGENCY (PT)

3-15. The point of tangency is the end of the curve. The forward tangent is tangent to the curve at this
point.

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Chapter 3

LENGTH OF CURVE (L)

3-16. The length of curve is the distance from the PC to the PT measured along the curve.

TANGENT DISTANCE (T)

3-17. The tangent distance is the distance along the tangents from the PI to the PC or PT. These distances
are equal on a simple curve.

CENTRAL ANGLE (Δ)

3-18. The central angle is the angle formed by two radii drawn from the center of the circle (O) to the PC
and PT. The central angle is equal in value to the I angle.

LONG CHORD (LC)

3-19. The long chord is the chord from the PC to the PT.

EXTERNAL DISTANCE (E)

3-20. The external distance is the distance from the PI to the midpoint of the curve. The external distance
bisects the interior angle at the PI.

MIDDLE ORDINATE (M)

3-21. The middle ordinate is the distance from the midpoint of the curve to the midpoint of the long chord.
The extension of the middle ordinate bisects the central angle.

DEGREE OF CURVE (D)

3-22. The degree of curve defines the “sharpness” or “flatness” of the curve (figure 3-3). There are two
definitions commonly in use for degree of curve, the arc definition and the chord definition.

Arc definition
3-23. The arc definition states that the degree of curve (D) is the angle formed by two radii drawn from the
center of the circle (point O, figure 3-3) to the ends of an arc 100 feet or 30.48 meters long. In this
definition, the degree of curve and radius are inversely proportional using the following formula:
𝐷𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑣𝑒 𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝐴𝑟𝑐
∶∶
360° 𝐶𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒
Circumference = 2 𝜋 𝑅𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠
𝜋 = 3.141592654
3-24. As the degree of curve increases, the radius decreases. It should be noted that for a given intersecting
angle or central angle, when using the arc definition, all the elements of the curve are inversely
proportioned to the degree of curve. This definition is primarily used by civilian engineers in highway
construction.
3-25. English system. Substituting D = 1° and length of arc = 100 feet, we obtain—
1° 100 1 100
∶∶ = :∶
360° 2𝜋𝑅 360 6.283185308 𝑅
Therefore,

𝑅 = 36,000 𝑑𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 6.283185308

𝑅 = 5,729.58 𝑓𝑡

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 Curves

3-26. Metric system. In the metric system, using a 30.48-meter length of arc and substituting D = 1°, we
obtain—
1° 30.48 1 30.48
∶∶ = :∶
360° 2𝜋𝑅 360 6.283185308 𝑅
Therefore,

𝑅 = 10,972.8 𝑑𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 6.283185308

𝑅 = 1,746.38 𝑚

Figure 3-3. Degree of curve

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Chapter 3

Chord definition
3-27. The chord definition states that the degree of curve is the angle formed by two radii drawn from the
center of the circle (point O, figure 3-3, page 3-5) to the ends of a chord 100 feet or 30.48 meters long. The
radius is computed by the following formula:
50 𝑓𝑡 15.24 𝑚
𝑅= 𝑜𝑟
𝑆𝑖𝑛 ½ 𝐷 𝑆𝑖𝑛 ½ 𝐷
3-28. The radius and the degree of curve are not inversely proportional even though, as in the arc
definition, the larger the degree of curve the “sharper” the curve and the shorter the radius. The chord
definition is used primarily on railroads in civilian practice and for both roads and railroads by the military.
3-29. English system. Substituting D = 1° and given Sin ½ 1 = 0.0087265355.
50 𝑓𝑡 50
𝑅= 𝑜𝑟
𝑆𝑖𝑛 ½ 𝐷 0.0087265355
R = 5,729.65 ft
3-30. Metric system. Using a chord 30.48 meters long, the surveyor computes R by the formula
15.24 𝑚
𝑅=
0.0087265355
3-31. Substituting D = 1° and given Sin ½ 1° = 0.0087265335, solve for R as follows:
15.24
𝑅=
0.0087265355
𝑅 = 1,746.40 𝑚

CHORDS
3-32. On curves with long radii, it is impractical to stake the curve by locating the center of the circle and
swinging the arc with a tape. The surveyor lays these curves out by staking the ends of a series of chords
(figure 3-4). Since the ends of the chords lie on the circumference of the curve, the surveyor defines the arc
in the field. The length of the chords varies with the degree of curve. To reduce the discrepancy between
the arc distance and chord distance, the surveyor uses the following chord lengths:

Degree of Radius Radius Chord Length

Curve Feet Meters Feet meters
from 1-3 5,730 - 1,910 1,745 - 585 100 30
3-8 1,910 - 720 585 - 220 50 15
8 - 16 720 - 360 220 - 110 25 7.5
over 16 360 - 150 110 - 45 10 3
3-33. The chord lengths above are the maximum distances in which the discrepancy between the arc length
and chord length will fall within the allowable error for taping, which is 0.02 foot per 100 feet on most
construction surveys. Depending upon the terrain and the needs of the project foremen, the surveyor may
stake out the curve with shorter or longer chords than recommended.

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Figure 3-4. Deflection angles

DEFLECTION ANGLES
3-34. The deflection angles are the angles between a tangent and the ends of the chords from the PC. The
surveyor uses them to locate the direction in which the chords are to be laid out. The total of the deflection
angles is always equal to one half of the I angle. This total serves as a check on the computed deflection
angles.

SIMPLE CURVE FORMULAS

3-35. The following formulas are used in the computation of a simple curve. All of the formulas, except
those noted, apply to both the arc and chord definitions.
5729.58 𝑓𝑡 1746.38 𝑚
𝑅= 𝑜𝑟 (𝑎𝑟𝑐 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛)
𝐷 𝐷
5729.58 𝑓𝑡 1746.38 𝑚
𝐷= 𝑜𝑟 (𝑎𝑟𝑐 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛)
𝑅 𝑅
50 𝑓𝑡 15.24 𝑚
𝑅= 𝑜𝑟 (𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑑 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛)
𝑆𝑖𝑛 ½ 𝐷 𝑆𝑖𝑛 ½ 𝐷

3 August 2012 TM 3-34.55 3-7