Concrete has a reputation for being tough. It has been in use for construction projects since ancient times. Without it, we would not have drainage and water systems, apartments and bridges. It stands proudly above the surface of the earth and lies serenely beneath it. When it comes to granting water free access to flow under a road or other transportation system in Tennessee, the obvious choice is always a concrete culvert pipe.
What Is a Culvert?
A culvert is a tunnel structure that allows fluids to flow freely from one side of a road to another. It is embedded in and surrounded by soil beneath a trail, a railroad track or any other type of transportation system. It may also act as a safe route for various electronic systems including cables and electrical wires.
The three most common type of culverts employed to handle water and electrical devices under railways and roads in such states as Tennessee are the following:
- Arch culvert
- Box culvert
- Pipe culvert
While various metals and even plastic may suffice, the most popular material is concrete. The material may be reinforced or not, depending upon the specifications for the project and its environment as well as personal preference, tradition, geographic location, logistics, ease of installation and, naturally, cost. Those who decide on concrete culvert pipes also have another option. The may choose to cast the material directly in situ or purchase precast concrete made in a factory and then brought to the site.
Choosing Single or Multiple Concrete Culvert Pipe
Pipe culverts, as the name implies, have a round shape. They come in singles or multiples. The number a Tennessee contractor chooses to use often depends upon the diameter of the location. For example, if the channel is large in its width, the engineer may opt for a large diameter concrete culvert pipe or several smaller diameter ones.