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Design Codes
- HDS-5 (pdf, 9.2MB)
Most of the hydraulic design techniques for culverts originate from research by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in the United States. In this publication, the FHWA outlines the methods, formulas, and constants to determine culvert headwater elevations, velocities, and flow profiles.
- AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (link)
For larger culverts, approximately 2.0 m (6 ft) or greater in diameter, a structural design conforming to Section 12 of the bridge design specifications is recommended.
- ASTM A796 (link)
Standard Practice for Structural Design of Corrugated Steel Pipe, Pipe-Arches, and Arches for Storm and Sanitary Sewers and Other Buried Applications
- ASTM A796 (link)
Standard Practice for Structural Design of Corrugated Steel Pipe, Pipe-Arches, and Arches for Storm and Sanitary Sewers and Other Buried Applications
Manufacturing Standards
- ASTM A760 (link)
Standard Specification for Corrugated Steel Pipe, Metallic-Coated for Sewers and Drains
- ASTM A761 (link)
Standard Specification for Corrugated Steel Structural Plate, Zinc-Coated, for Field-Bolted Pipe, Pipe-Arches, and Arches
Design Guides
- Corrugated Steel Pipe Design Manual (link)
Issued by the National Corrugated Steel Pipe Association (NCSPA) this manual contains everything you need to know to design a corrugated steel pipe. It includes sections on products available, hydrology, hydraulics, and storm sewer design.
- Concrete Pipe Design Manual (pdf, 17.5MB)
Written by the American Concrete Pipe Association, this manual includes all of the information you need to know about concrete pipe, products, sizes, and configurations. Also includes sections on hydrology and hydraulics of culverts and storm sewers, as well as structural design.
Industry Organizations
- NCSPA
National Corrugated Steel Pipe Association. Represents manufacturers of corrugated steel pipe.
- ACPA
American Concrete Pipe Association. Represents manufacturers of concrete pipe.
- AASHTO
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Represents state and counties.
Culvert Manufacturers
Federal Agencies
State DOT's