The term culvert has become synonymous with CSP.
Bolted Open Bottom Arches
Smaller, open bottom arches in a variety of steel materials provide quick installations of economical culverts and bridges for temporary and permanent applications.
The Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code (CHBDC) and many jurisdictions define a bridge as a structure with a span greater than three metres. Standard CSP culverts are available in diameters up to 3600 mm or in pipe arch shapes with spans up to 4370 mm. Long lengths of lightweight CSP make for fast, economical bridge installations.
Culverts are enclosed channels serving as a continuation of an open stream that has met an artificial barrier such as a road or embankment. Culverts are constructed within an envelope of compacted soil and may range in size from a 300 mm diameter driveway culvert to much larger stream crossings. Standard CSP is available to 3600 mm diameter.
Fish move along streams throughout their life cycle; however, blockage caused by high velocities, dry stream beds, and perched culvert outlets can prevent fish movement at critical times. By managing water flow through a CSP culvert, natural fish migration can be maintained.
As old culverts constructed of various materials approach the end of their design service life, they may be rehabilitated or relined with new CSP without disturbing traffic flow or other infrastructure. High fills and traffic volumes can make this the most cost-effective solution. By avoiding expensive detours and social disruption, the relining option is almost invisible to the public.
Pedestrians, recreational vehicles, farm animals, and equipment may pass easily under travelled roadways through CSP culverts.
From salamanders to grizzly bears, wildlife on the road is hazardous both animals and the motoring public. Critically located culverts can provide safe passage across the road. By understanding species’ habits, various CSP design options optimum solutions are available to ensure the safety of animals and humans.