Roads often feature raised middle sections called asphalt medians, forming a slope known as camber. This diagonal slope, or cross-slope, aids in diverting rainwater away from road edges, preventing potential damage. In simpler terms, camber is crucial for effective water drainage on roads, enhancing road durability.
Camber is the slant on a road surface, ensuring rainwater flows away, reducing slipperiness, and safeguarding the pavement. It’s a vital component of road construction, promoting longevity. Typically represented as “1 in n” or a percentage, a 2.5% camber means a slope of 1 in 40.
Sloped or Straight Camber:
Composite Camber:
Parabolic or Barrel Camber:
Two Straight Line Camber:
Camber is established by elevating the road center, forming a crown. Surface drainage on curves is improved by elevating the outer pavement edge. The camber value is often expressed as “1 in n” or a percentage.
Advantages of Camber in Road:
Disadvantages of Camber in Road:
| Type of Road Surface | Range of Camber (Low Rainfall) | Range of Camber (Heavy Rainfall) |
|---|---|---|
| Cement Concrete and Thick Bituminous Surface | 1 in 60 or 1.7% | 1 in 50 or 2.0% |
| Water Bound Macadam and Gravel Pavement | 1 in 40 or 2.5% | 1 in 33 or 3.0% |
| Thin Bituminous Surface | 1 in 50 or 2.0% | 1 in 40 or 2.5% |
| Earth Road | 1 in 33 or 3.0% | 1 in 25 or 4.0% |
In conclusion, camber, the curve on a road’s cross-section, plays a crucial role in efficient water drainage. It ensures rainwater is directed away from road edges, preserving road quality and enhancing safety. Understanding the types and recommended values of camber is essential for effective road design and maintenance.
