OBJECTIVES

To differentiate between the different types of horizontal and circular curves. To understand the terminology and geometry of circular curves To calculate through chainage values along the centre lines of circular curves. Design curves of constant radii to join straight section of for example a road or railway. Set out the centrelines of circular curves.

INTRODUCTION
In the geometric design of motorways, railways, pipelines, etc., the design and setting out of curves is an important aspect of the engineers work. The initial design is usually based on a series of straight sections whose positions are defined largely by the topography of the area. The intersections of pairs of straights are then connected by horizontal curves. In the vertical design, intersecting gradients are connected by curves in the vertical plane. Circular curves are used to join intersecting straight lines (or tangents). Circular curves are assumed to be concave. Horizontal circular curves are used to transition the change in alignment at angle points in the tangent (straight) portions of alignments. An angle point is called a point of intersection or PI station; and, the change in alignment is defined by a deflection angle, . Types of Circular Curves are: 1. 2. 3. 4. Simple Curve Compound Curves Broken Back Curves Reverse Curves

Simple Circular Curves A simple circular curve consists of one are of constant radius R, these are the most commonly used type of curves . Compound Circular Curves These consist of two or more consecutive simple circular curves of different radii without and intervening straight section. Broken Back Curves A Broken-back curve is a term used to denote two curves in the same direction separated by a short tangent or by a flat curve whose radius is greater than twice the radius of either of the two initial curves. This layout is particularly objectionable on highways and should be avoided by using one simple curve or a compound curve if necessary. Reverse Curves A reverse curve is a combination of two simple curves of opposite curvature with a common tangent. A tangent adequate in length to provide the super elevation transition required by the Design Policies should be provided between the curves. If the reverse curves do not contain any super elevations, a tangent between the curves is not required.

The most common type of horizontal curve used to connect the intersecting tangents sections of highways or railroads is circular curves. Normally two methods of defining circular curves are used in most countries. First, it is generally used in rail road works. It defines the degree of curves as the central angle subtended by the chord of 100 ft (30.48m) in length. Secondly, it is used in the highways work. It defines the degree of curve as the central angle subtended by an arc of 100 ft (30.48m) in length.

Pc = point of curvature, beginning of curve. PI= point of intersection of tangents. PT = point of tangency, end of curve. R = radius of curve, ft (m) D = degree of curve I = deflection angle between tangents at PI, also central angle of curve. T = tangent distance, distance from PI to PC or PT, ft(m) L = length of curve from PC to PT measured on 100ft (30.48m) chord for chord definition, on arc for arc definition, ft(m). C = length of long chord from the PC to PT, ft (m). E = external distance, distance from PI to midpoint of the curve. Radius of circular curve

The distance from the centre of the curve to any point on the circular curve is called radius of the curve.

DIRECTION OF THE CIRCULAR CURVE The direction of the circular curves is defined as the direction the curve tends, as stationing along the curve increases. The direction of circular curve can be expressed as left, right, north, east, south, west, free text. THE CENTRAL ANGLE OF A CIRCULAR CURVE The angle at the centre of radius of a circular arc included between the radii, passing through the beginning and ending of the arc is called the central angle of a circular curve. LONG CHORD LENGTH The straight line distances that connecting the beginning of the curve and the end of the curve is called the long chord length. DEGREE OF CURVATURE The degree of curvature is defined as the angle subtended by an arc, whose length is 100ft.