Chapter 1 Horizontal Curves

1.3 Reversed Curves

A reverse curve is formed by two (usually or more) simple curves having a

common tangent but their centers lie on opposite sides. The simple curves are
joined at a point called point of reverse curvature (PRC).

Reverse curves are seldom used in highway or railway alignment. The

instantaneous change in direction occurring at PRC would cause discomfort and
safety problems for all but the lowest of speeds.

The reverse curve has six independent parameters; R1, I1, T1, R2, I2, and T2. The
solution technique depends on which parameters are unknown.

Types of Reversed Curves

Generally, there are two types of reversed curves; curves with parallel tangents,
and curves with non-parallel tangents. The latter type has two classes; converging
and diverging tangents.

Reversed Curve with Parallel Tangents

Reversed Curve with Non-Parallel Tangents

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Chapter 1 Horizontal Curves

Example 1
1. The perpendicular distance between two parallel tangents of a reversed curve is
8m. The radius and central angle of the first curve are 175m and 8° respectively.
Find the radius of the second curve.

Example 2
2. Two converging tangents have azimuths 300° and 90° respectively, while that of
the common tangent is 320°.The distance from the point of intersection of tangents
to the PI of the second curve is 160m. If the radius of the first curve is 285.40m,
determine the stationing of PRC and PT. The stationing of PI of the first curve is
10+432.24m.

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Chapter 1 Horizontal Curves

Plate no. 3 Reversed Curves

1. A reverse curve of equal radii connects two parallel tangents 12m apart. The length of
chord from PC to PT is 140m. Determine the total length of the reversed curve.
Ans: 140.172 m
2. The parallel tangents of a reversed curve are 22m apart. The radius of the first curve at PC
is 810m and the length of chord from PC to PT is 360m. Find: central angle of each curve
radius of the curve passing through PT

3. Two parallel tangents are connected by a reversed curve having radii of 340m. If the
central angle of the curve is 8°30’, compute the distance between parallel tangents.

4. Three lines are to be connected by a reverse curve. AB has a bearing of N78°32’E and
922.5m long; BC is at S43°53’E, 361.10m long and CD is at N40°00’E, 642.74m long. Compute
the common radius of the reversed curve.

5. The common tangent of a reversed curve is 286.75m and has an azimuth of 310°42’. The
azimuths of the back and forward tangents of this curve are determined to be 256°38’ and
214°18’. If the first curve has a degree of 6° and PI 1 is at STA 0+866.55, find the stationing of
PRC and PT.

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