Fieldwork No.

16
REVERSE CURVE

Name : Weather :
Group No. : Place :
Designation : Time, Start :
Instructor : End :

I. Objectives

To lay out a reverse curve using the method of deflection angles

II. Instruments

1 unit - Engineers transit 1 pc - Plumb bob

1 roll - string 1 pc - 50-meter tape
marking pins

III. Theory
A reverse curve consists of two simple curves turning in opposite directions and joining at a
point on a common tangent. The point where the curves joined is called the point of reverse
curve or PRC. Reverse curve is not recommended in highways and railways where the speeds
are normally high because the instantaneous change in direction at the PRC will not allow any
space for smooth banking of the outer side of the curve. In roadways where the velocities are
relatively slow, reverse curves are used with great success.

The figure shows a typical reverse curve with the different parameters
 Back PC T1 PI1
tangent
I2 R2
PRC Forward tangent

R1
PT
T2
PI2

I1

IV. Procedure

A) Calculations

1. The following given data (obtained from a preliminary survey) and assumed standards
will be used to layout the desired reversed curve-centerline in the field.

Radius of first curve, R1 = 50 m

Radius of second curve, R2 = 60 m
Stationing of P.C. = 12+042
Angle of intersection; I1= 600
Angle of intersection; I2= 400

2. Before laying out the curve in the field, first compute the value of the following curve
parameters:

Tangents, T1 and T2
Deflection angles for the 10-m full station points
Chord lengths per 10-m arc length

3. Tabulate the computed curve stations with their corresponding cumulative deflection
angles and chord lengths between stations.
 Station Deflection Angles Chord Lengths

B) Laying out the curve

1. Establish the PC, PI1, PRC, PI2, and PT in the field.

2. Set up and level the instrument at PC, sight on point PI1 and set the horizontal angle to
zero. The telescope’s line of sight should now be aligned with the back tangent.
3. By using the deflection angle and chord lengths, locate and establish all points on the
first curve starting at the PC until the point of reverse curvature (PRC).
4. Transfer and level the instrument at the laid out point PRC. Backsight on PI 1 with the
telescope in inverted position and then set the horizontal angle to zero.
5. Plunge the telescope, and by deflection angle method locate and establish all points on
the second curve until the PT.
6. Measure the chords BC – PRC and PRC – PT. Compare the measured and computed
chord lengths. Compute the discrepancy.

V. Findings

Tabulate all your data and show sample computations.

VI. Conclusion

In highways and railways designed for very high speed, is suitable to employ a reversed
curve? Explain why?

VI. Sketch