Dec 04, 2012

Since the late 1970s, precast box sections have become an important component in the construction of culverts, storm drains and sewers, but there has not been a comprehensive standard for the installation of such sections. A new ASTM International standard fills this gap. ASTM C1675, Practice for Installation of Precast Reinforced Concrete Monolithic Box Sections for Culverts, Storm Drains and Sewers, was developed by Subcommittee C13.05 on Special Projects, part of ASTM International Committee C13 on Concrete Pipe.

“It is vitally important that all structural products be installed correctly in order to maintain the integrity of the engineer’s design,” said Oliver Delery, Hanson Pipe and Precast LLC, and chairman of C13. “This is especially true for underground box culverts and pipe as they must perform exactly like bridges. Our committee action, with the adoption of ASTM C1675, completes the design-installation package.”

Part of the appeal of precast concrete boxes is that they can be installed quickly and easily, even in adverse weather conditions. Installation can be accomplished directly from delivery trucks or from stockpiled products. Aspects of installation covered in ASTM C1675 include initial excavation procedures; foundation specifications; construction of a leveling course; placement and joining of box sections; and proper use of sidefill and overfill around the structure. Other sections of the standard describe sheathing removal and trench shield advancement, precast concrete appurtenances and adequate protection from construction loads.

“Precast box sections are products whose use is still growing and evolving,” says Roman Selig, national account manager for concrete products, Hamilton Kent LLC, and chairman of C13.05. “New uses for box sections are being developed as time goes on. They’re not just for culverts anymore.” 

Current applications for precast box sections include: culverts; storm sewers; underground detention systems; bridges; pedestrian tunnels; animal crossings; lift station wet wells; golf cart tunnels; and chambers or tunnels for underground utilities.

Despite this wide variety of uses, Selig notes that some design engineers are still not familiar with the versatility of precast box sections. “ASTM C1675 will allow those people to better understand the product and how to use it by providing a uniform and consistent installation method.” says Selig. “In addition, it will also benefit those who already have experience with the product.”

The new standard will be used by specifiers and owners who now have an installation standard to reference; contractors, who will use it for installation guidance; and manufacturers, who can recommend ASTM C1675 to specifiers and contractors.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (phone: 877-909-ASTM; sales@astm.org). ASTM International welcomes participation in the development of its standards. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, visit www.astm.org/JOIN.

For more news in this sector, visit www.astm.org/sn-construction or follow us on Twitter @ASTMBuildings.

Technical Contact: Roman Selig, Hamilton Kent LLC, Birmingham, Ala., Phone: 205-910-0690; roman.selig@hamiltonkent.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Diane Trinsey, Phone: 610-832-9661; dtrinsey@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact: Barbara Schindler, Phone: 610-832-9603; bschindl@astm.org

Release #9243