ISBN 978-0-626-26671-4

SANS 986:2012
Edition 3.2

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Precast reinforced concrete culverts

Published by SABS Standards Division

1 Dr Lategan Road Groenkloof Private Bag X191 Pretoria 0001
Tel: +27 12 428 7911 Fax: +27 12 344 1568
www.sabs.co.za
© SABS
SANS 986:2012
Edition 3.2

Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope
Amdt 1 2006 Amended to remove a requirement from the definition for proof
load, to insert the units for proof loads in table 2, to clarify a
requirement for deck shear (5.4.1.2), to clarify the value of H in
NOTE 2 to table 3 and in clause 8, to correct references to tables
and figures, to change the description of the feeler gauge
(7.6.1.5), to correct a symbol in 7.6.2.2.2, and to change the titles
of 7.6.2.3 and of figures 4 to 6.
Amdt 2 2012 Amended to update referenced standards.

Foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee SABS SC 59A, Construction
standards – Cement, lime and concrete, in accordance with procedures of the SABS Standards
Division, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.

This document was published in March 2012.

This document supersedes SANS 986:2006 (edition 3.1).

A vertical line in the margin shows where the text has been technically modified by amendment
No. 2.

Annex A forms an integral part of this document. Annexes B, C and D are for information only.
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Contents
Page

Foreword

1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Normative references ............................................................................................................. 3

3 Definitions .............................................................................................................................. 4

4 Materials for use in the manufacture of culverts .................................................................... 5

4.1 General ........................................................................................................................ 5

4.2 Cement ......................................................................................................................... 5
4.3 Additives ....................................................................................................................... 5
4.4 Admixtures ................................................................................................................... 5
4.5 Aggregate ..................................................................................................................... 5
4.6 Water ............................................................................................................................ 5
4.7 Reinforcement .............................................................................................................. 5
4.8 Pigments ...................................................................................................................... 6
4.9 Concrete ....................................................................................................................... 6
4.10 Verification of materials and concrete .......................................................................... 6

5 Requirements ......................................................................................................................... 6

5.1 Type ............................................................................................................................. 6

5.2 Durability ...................................................................................................................... 6
5.3 Dimensions .................................................................................................................. 6
5.4 Physical requirements .................................................................................................. 7

6 Sampling and compliance ...................................................................................................... 9

7 Inspection and methods of test .............................................................................................. 10

7.1 Inspection ..................................................................................................................... 10

7.2 Internal dimensions ...................................................................................................... 10
7.3 Straightness ................................................................................................................. 10
7.4 Squareness of ends ..................................................................................................... 10
7.5 Cover over reinforcement ............................................................................................ 11
7.6 Proof load test .............................................................................................................. 11
7.7 Ultimate load test ......................................................................................................... 13

8 Marking .................................................................................................................................. 16

Annex A (normative) Notes to purchasers ............................................................................. 17

Annex B (informative) Proof loads for commonly available culverts ........................................ 18

Annex C (informative) Quality verification of precast reinforced concrete culverts................... 19

Annex D (informative) Recommended cover over steel for different exposure categories........ 20

Bibliography............................................................................................................................... 21

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Precast reinforced concrete culverts

1 Scope
This standard covers precast reinforced concrete culverts of different strength classes according to
the span of the culvert intended primarily for conveying water that is not under pressure.

2 Normative references
The following normative documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text,
constitute provisions of this standard. All normative documents are subject to revision and, since
any reference to a normative document is deemed to be a reference to the latest edition of that
document, parties to agreements based on this standard are encouraged to take steps to ensure
the use of the most recent editions of the normative documents indicated below. Information on
currently valid national and international standards can be obtained from the SABS Standards
Division.

2.1 Standards
BS 4483, Steel fabric for the reinforcement of concrete – Specification.

SANS 282, Bending dimensions and scheduling of steel reinforcement for concrete.

SANS 920, Steel bars for concrete reinforcement.

SANS 1024, Welded steel fabric for reinforcement of concrete.

SANS 1083, Aggregates from natural sources – Aggregates for concrete.

SANS 1491-1, Portland cement extenders – Part 1: Ground granulated blast-furnace slag. Amdt 2

SANS 1491-2, Portland cement extenders – Part 2: Fly ash. Amdt 2

SANS 1491-3, Portland cement extenders – Part 3: Condensed silica fume. Amdt 2

SANS 5863, Concrete tests – Compressive strength of hardened concrete.

SANS 10100-2 (SABS 0100-2), The structural use of concrete – Part 2: Materials and execution of
work.

SANS 50197-1/EN 197-1, Cement – Part 1: Composition, specifications and conformity criteria for
common cements.

SANS 50450-1/EN 450-1, Fly ash for concrete – Part 1: Definition, specifications and conformity
criteria. Amdt 2

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SANS 50450-2/EN 450-2, Fly ash for concrete – Part 2: Conformity evaluation. Amdt 2

SANS 53263-1/EN 13263-1, Silica fume for concrete – Part 1: Definitions, requirements and
conformity criteria. Amdt 2

SANS 53263-2/EN 13263-2, Silica fume for concrete – Part 2: Conformity evaluation. Amdt 2

SANS 55167-1/EN 15167-1, Ground granulated blast furnace slag for use in concrete, mortar and
grout – Part 1: Definitions, specifications and conformity criteria. Amdt 2

SANS 55167-2/EN 15167-2, Ground granulated blast furnace slag for use in concrete, mortar and
grout – Part 2: Conformity evaluation. Amdt 2

2.2 Other publications

Fulton's concrete technology, 9th ed. 2009, Midrand: Cement and Concrete Institute.

3 Definitions
3.1
acceptable
acceptable to the authority administering this standard, or to the parties concluding the purchase
contract, as relevant

3.2
batch
material from a single mix or, in the case of a continuous process, the material from a single day's
production

3.3
class
classification of the culvert in terms of its S-load (see 3.8)

3.4
culvert
hollow structural unit that is used mainly for the conveyance of water below ground level

NOTE Culverts are specifiable by type (see 5.1), according to the shape, and by strength class, according to
the applicable proof loads (see 5.4.1).

3.5
defective
culvert that fails in one or more respects to comply with the relevant requirements of this standard

3.6
lot
not more than 500 culverts or components from one manufacturer, of the same type or size and
bearing the same batch identification, submitted at any one time for inspection and testing

3.7
proof load
load that an acceptable culvert withstands, when tested in accordance with 7.6, without the
development of cracks of width such that the feeler gauge (7.6.1.5 and figure 1) can enter to a
depth of 2 mm or more over a continuous length of at least 300 mm or over two adjacent ribs in
ribbed culverts Amdt 1

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3.8
S-load
vertical proof load in kilonewtons per metre (kN/m) length of the span of the culvert

3.9
stated dimension
dimension (span, height or length) that is the manufacturer’s equivalent to the nominal dimension
required

3.10
ultimate load
load obtained by multiplying the component of the proof load by a coefficient of 1,25

4 Materials for use in the manufacture of culverts

4.1 General
Materials for the concrete used in the manufacture of culverts shall be so selected as to produce a
high-density, low-porosity concrete. The total chloride content of the mix (arising from the
aggregate, admixtures or any other source) shall comply with SANS 10100-2.

4.2 Cement
The cement used in the manufacture of culverts shall comply with the requirements of
SANS 50197-1.

4.3 Additives
Additives may be used to enhance the properties of concrete. Portland cement extenders shall
comply with SANS 55167-1, SANS 55167-2, SANS 50450-1, SANS 50450-2, SANS 53263-1 and
SANS 53263-2, as applicable. Amdt 2

4.4 Admixtures
The admixtures used shall not have any harmful effect on the properties of the concrete.
Admixtures containing calcium chloride or rust-inhibiting admixtures shall not be used.

4.5 Aggregate
The aggregate shall consist of natural sand, or crushed or uncrushed gravel, stone or rock, or any
combination of these (see SANS 1083). Should the aggregate prove to be susceptible to alkali-
aggregate reaction, the precautionary measures recommended in Fulton's concrete technology
shall be followed.

4.6 Water
The water, preferably water drawn from the municipal water mains, used in the manufacture of the
concrete shall be clear and free from deleterious quantities of impurities.

4.7 Reinforcement
Reinforcing bars shall comply with the requirements of SANS 920, SANS 1024 or BS 4483 and,
where relevant, with SANS 10100-2. Reinforcement bars shall be free from loose or heavy rust,
scale, oil or grease, or any material that might interfere with the bond between the reinforcement
and the concrete. Slight rust may, however, be permitted. The bending of the reinforcement shall be
carried out in accordance with SANS 282.

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4.8 Pigments
The concrete may be dyed by the addition of mineral pigments.

4.9 Concrete
The cementitious content of the concrete shall be at least 350 kg/m3.

The mix design, mixing and compaction of the concrete shall be such as to obtain the necessary
strength and durability in the culverts.

The 28 d compressive strength of the concrete, when determined in accordance with SANS 5863,
shall be at least 40 MPa.

4.10 Verification of materials and concrete

Verification of the quality of materials and concrete should preferably be carried out in accordance
with annex C.

5 Requirements
5.1 Type
The culverts shall be one of the following types, as required:

a) portal-type culverts that are supplied with or without precast bases;

b) type of culvert that is different from the types given in (a) above but that falls within the scope of,
and complies with the requirements of this standard.

5.2 Durability
The durability of the culverts used as envisaged in the scope will be adequate if the reinforcement is
protected by a concrete cover as specified in 5.3.6.

In the case of special applications in situations where the ground water or the conveyed water (or
both) is very aggressive, reinforcement may have to be additionally protected by increasing the
concrete cover, changing the concrete mix design, or applying a protective coating (specified by the
specifying authority) to the culvert (see annex A), as required.

5.3 Dimensions
5.3.1 Internal cross-sectional dimensions

The nominal internal cross-sectional dimensions of culverts shall be one of the combinations given
in table 1, as required (see annex A). The actual dimensions, measured in accordance with 7.2,
shall not differ from the stated dimensions by more than:

5 mm for spans or heights of up to and including 1 200 mm, or

10 mm for spans or heights that exceed 1 200 mm.

5.3.2 Internal cross-sectional area

5.3.2.1 The actual internal cross-sectional area of a culvert shall be not less than 95 % of the
nominal internal cross-sectional area given in table 1.

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5.3.2.2 The cross-sectional area of haunches and similar features may be included in the stated
internal cross-sectional area. However, the stated area shall not exceed the actual cross-sectional
area available for flow of water by more than 5 %.

5.3.3 Length
The actual length of a culvert, measured in accordance with 7.2, shall not differ from the required
length by more than 12 mm (see annex A).

NOTE No standardized nominal lengths are given in this standard.

Table 1 — Nominal internal cross-sectional dimensions of culverts

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Nominal internal cross-sectional area
2
Height, m
H Span, S
mm
mm 450 600 750 900 1 200 1 500 1 800 2 400 3 000 3 600
300 0,12 0,18 0,23 0,27 0,36 0,45 0,54 0,72 0,90 1,08
450 0,20 0,27 0,34 0,41 0,54 0,68 0,81 1,08 1,35 1,62
600 – 0,36 0,45 0,54 0,72 0,90 1,08 1,80 1,80 2,76
900 – – – 0,81 1,08 1,35 1,62 2,16 2,37 3,24
1 200 – – – – 1,44 1,80 2,16 2,86 3,60 4,32
1 500 – – – – – 2,25 2,70 3,60 4,50 5,40
1 600 – – – – – – 3,24 4,32 5,40 6,48
2 400 – – – – – – – 5,76 7,20 8,64
3 000 – – – – – – – – 9,00 10,8

5.3.4 Straightness
When the inner surfaces of the culvert are measured in accordance with 7.3, they shall not, at any
point, deviate from straightness by the lesser of 12 mm and 5 mm per metre length of the culvert.

5.3.5 Squareness of ends

When a culvert is tested in accordance with 7.4, the end of the culvert shall be square to within the
greater of 5 mm or 0,5 % of the length of the culvert.

5.3.6 Cover over reinforcement

When measured in accordance with 7.5, the concrete cover over reinforcement to the concrete
surface on any culvert face, shall not be less than 25 mm for at least 95 % of the reinforcing bars. In
addition, under no circumstances shall any single bar have a cover over reinforcement to the
concrete surface on any culvert face of less than 20 mm.

5.4 Physical requirements

5.4.1 Resistance to proof load
5.4.1.1 Deck bending moments and sway

When tested in accordance with 7.6.2.1, a portal-type culvert (see 5.1 and figure 4) shall sustain the
simultaneous application of the proof loads given in columns 2 and 3 of table 2, appropriate to the
class of culvert required, without the development of cracks of width such that the feeler gauge can
enter to a depth of 2 mm or more over a continuous length of at least 300 mm, or over two adjacent
ribs in ribbed culverts.

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Table 2 — Proof loads for culverts — Bending moments and shear

1 2 3
Proof loads
kN/m of length
Culvert class Vertical Horizontal
Pv Ph
1)
75S 75 × S
100S 100 × S
125S 125 × S
30
150S 150 × S
175S 175 × S
200S 200 × S
NOTE Annex B gives proof loads for commonly
available culverts.
1)
S is the nominal span in metres.
Amdt 1

NOTE Additional S-loads may be used to designate additional proof loads.

5.4.1.2 Deck shear

When tested in accordance with 7.6.2.2 or 7.6.3.1, a portal-type culvert (see 5.1) shall sustain the
simultaneous application of the proof loads given in columns 2 and 3 of table 2, appropriate to the
class of culvert required, without the development of cracks of width such that the gauge can enter
to a depth of 2 mm or more over a continuous length of at least 300 mm or over two adjacent ribs in
ribbed culverts. Amdt 1

5.4.1.3 Inner leg moment and shear

When tested in accordance with 7.6.2.3, a portal-type culvert (see 5.1 and figure 6) shall sustain the
application of the horizontal proof loads given in columns 2 or 3 of table 3 appropriate to the class of
culvert required, without the development of cracks of width such that the gauge can enter to a
depth of 2 mm or more over a continuous length of at least 300 mm or over two adjacent ribs in
ribbed culverts.

Table 3 — Horizontal proof loads for culverts — Inner leg moment and shear

1 2 3
Horizontal proof load, PhL Proof load, PhL
Culvert class Span (S ) Height (H) =
Height (H ) >
2 Span (S)
75S 0,4 × 75 × S 0,6 × 75 × S
100S 0,3 × 100 × S 0,5 × 100 × S
125S 0,2 × 125 × S 0,45 × 125 × S
150S 0,2 × 150 × S 0,425 × 150 × S
175S 0,2 × 175 × S 0,4 × 175 × S
200S 0,2 × 200 × S 0,4 × 200 × S
NOTE 1 S is the nominal span, in metres.
NOTE 2 H is the height, in metres. When H is less than or equal to
S/2, no horizontal leg load is required.
Amdt 1

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5.4.2 Resistance to ultimate load

When so required (see annex A), an ultimate load test shall be carried out.

When a culvert is tested in accordance with 7.7, it shall sustain a load of at least 1,25 times the
proof load without failure.

5.4.3 Lifting devices

Means for the attachment of lifting devices, where provided, shall be such as to be acceptable.

5.4.4 Finish

Surfaces and edges shall be free from imperfections that would impair the serviceability of the
culvert.

6 Sampling and compliance

6.1 General
A prescribed sampling procedure shall be followed to determine whether a lot complies with the
standard, and the samples so taken shall be deemed to represent the lot. Samples shall be taken in
accordance with the procedures given in 6.2 and 6.3.

6.2 Sample for inspection

From the lot, take at random the number of specimens shown in column 2 of table 4, relative to the
appropriate lot size shown in column 1.

6.3 Sample for testing

From the lot, take at random the number of specimens shown in column 4 of table 4, relative to the
appropriate lot size shown in column 1.

Table 4 — Sample sizes for inspection and testing and permissible

number of defectives

1 2 3 4 5
Inspection Testing
Lot size Sample Permissible number Sample Permissible number
size of defectives size of defectives
10 – 20 All 0 3 0
21 – 100 20 0 3 0
101 – 300 30 1 5 0
301 – 500 45 1 7 0

6.4 Sample for ultimate load testing

The ultimate load test shall be conducted on one sample from a lot of 500, unless otherwise
dictated by the manufacturer's quality system.

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6.5 Criteria for compliance

Deem the lot to comply with the relevant requirements of the standard if,

a) on inspection of the sample drawn in accordance with 6.2 with regard to the properties given in
clause 5, the number of defectives found does not exceed the relevant permissible number of
defectives given in column 3 of table 4;

b) on testing of the sample drawn in accordance with 6.3 for compliance with the requirements
given in clause 5, no defective is found (see column 5 of table 4); and

c) the sample subjected to the ultimate load does not collapse.

7 Inspection and methods of test

7.1 Inspection
Visually inspect the culverts for compliance with all the requirements of the standard for which tests
to assess compliance are not given in 7.2 to 7.7 (inclusive).

7.2 Internal dimensions

Measure by any acceptable means, to the nearest 3 mm, the internal height, the span (at two
different positions along the length) and the length. Measure the span between the inner surface of
the legs at the deck soffit level, excluding any haunches, etc. Check for compliance with 5.3.1 and
5.3.3.

Measure, to the nearest 3 mm, whatever dimensions are necessary to calculate the cross-sectional
area and check for compliance with 5.3.2.

7.3 Straightness
Take a straight-edge of length at least equal to that of the culvert under test and so lay it on an inner
face of the culvert that the straight-edge is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the culvert. Measure, to
the nearest 2 mm, any deviation of the culvert surface from the straight-edge. Repeat the test on
each of the other inner faces of the culvert, and check the results for compliance with 5.3.4.
Alternatively, carry out the test by using acceptable means.

7.4 Squareness of ends

Use a tee-square

a) with a blade of length at least equal to the lesser of the length of the culvert and 1,5 m, and

b) in which the arm of the stock that is remote from the true edge of the blade is longer than the
greater of the two internal dimensions (span or height) of the culvert (see figure 1).

Place the true edge of the blade in contact with the inner surface of one of the culvert legs and
parallel to the longitudinal axis of the culvert. Hold the tee-square so that the stock projects beyond
the opposite side of the culvert, and then move the tee-square longitudinally until one arm of the
stock touches the end surface of a leg. Measure, to the nearest 3 mm, the space, if any, between
the other arm of the stock and the end surface of the wall it overlaps. Repeat the procedure at the
other end of the culvert. Check the results for compliance with 5.3.5.

Alternatively, carry out the test by using acceptable means.

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7.5 Cover over reinforcement

Using a calibrated electronic cover meter, measure the concrete cover over reinforcement. Conduct
at least twenty spot tests per face of the culvert. Check for compliance with 5.3.6.

7.6 Proof load test

7.6.1 Apparatus

7.6.1.1 Jacks or compression testing machines, capable of applying to the culvert the
appropriate proof loads given in tables 2 and 3, without undue deformation or yielding of the jacks
or the testing machines. Use the testing machine that enables the culvert unit to deflect under
horizontal load while the vertical load is applied.

7.6.1.2 Three unyielding bearing blocks, one of width 150 mm and the other two of width 75 mm,
and of length at least equal to that of the culvert under test.

7.6.1.3 Rubber pads, of the same width and length as the bearing blocks, 25 mm thick, and that
have a hardness of (55 ± 5) international rubber hardness degrees.

7.6.1.4 Sand-bed, of area large enough to accommodate the culvert under test (with or without
precast base) in the position described in 7.6.2, and that contains sand of depth at least 75 mm,
supported on a level base. Alternatively, suitable rubber pads, on a solid level base, may be used.

7.6.1.5 Feeler gauge, made from a steel leaf, of width 10 mm and of a thickness of 1 % of the
cover over the reinforcing, tapered to a rounded point of width 2 mm (see figure 2). The taper is
1 in 4. The gauge has a line scribed at right angles to its longitudinal axis, at a position 2 mm from
the point. Amdt 1

7.6.2 Procedure

7.6.2.1 Deck bending moments and sway test

7.6.2.1.1 So position the culvert or, when relevant, so assemble the components of the culvert as
intended for use (see figure 3) on the sand-bed or rubber bearing pads (see 7.6.1.3 or 7.6.1.4) so
that the loads can be applied as follows:

Rubber pads are placed between the bearing blocks and the deck or leg (as relevant). Place one
bearing block (see 7.6.1.2) centrally over the longitudinal centre-line of the deck and the other along
the top outside edge of one leg. The bearing blocks shall extend from one end of the culvert to the
other end, as shown in figure 3.

Ensure that the bottom of the culvert legs are suitably restrained to resist horizontal movement of
the culvert during application of the horizontal load. If precast bases are being tested, subject such
bases to the vertical test load only (see figure 4).

7.6.2.1.2 Apply the appropriate vertical and horizontal proof loads (see table 2) in 3 stages, namely
50 %, 75 % and 100 % (see figure 4). While sustaining the loads, examine the culvert for cracks
after each stage. Maintain the application of the 100 % proof load for at least 5 min. Use the feeler
gauge to determine whether any cracks that have developed render the culvert defective in terms of
5.4.1. Amdt 1

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7.6.2.2 Deck shear test

7.6.2.2.1 So position the culvert or, when relevant, so assemble the components of the culvert as
intended for use (see figure 3) on the sand-bed or rubber bearing pads (see 7.6.1.4) that the loads
can be applied as follows:

Rubber pads (7.6.1.3) are placed between the bearing block and the deck or leg, as relevant. For
culverts with splayed haunches, the edge nearest to the leg of the deck bearing block should be a
distance, d, from the outside edge of the culvert (see figure 5), where d is the sum of the thickness
at the top of the leg, the horizontal dimension of the haunch and the deck thickness. In the case of
culverts with radiused haunches, this distance, d should be the sum of the leg thickness at the top
of the leg, half the horizontal dimension of the haunch and the deck thickness from the outside edge
of the culvert. The horizontal bearing block shall be placed along the top outside edge of one leg so
that it extends from one end of the culvert to the other end, as shown in figure 3.

7.6.2.2.2 Apply the appropriate vertical and horizontal proof loads, Pv (SHEAR) and PhL, in three
stages, namely 50 %, 75 % and 100 % (see table 2 and figure 5). While sustaining the loads,
examine the culvert for cracks after each stage. Use the feeler gauge to determine whether any
cracks that have developed render the culvert defective in terms of 5.4.1. The application of the
100 % proof load shall be maintained for a minimum of 5 min. Amdt 1

7.6.2.3 Inner leg bending moment and shear test Amdt 1

7.6.2.3.1 So position the culvert or, when relevant, so assemble the components of the culvert as
intended for use, on the sand-bed or rubber bearing pads (see 7.6.1.4), that the loads can be
applied as follows:

Rubber pads (see 7.6.1.3) are placed between the bearing blocks and the leg. Place one bearing
block (see 7.6.1.2) a distance of 0,2 × H from the bottom of the culvert leg to its centre line, the
second along the top outside edge of the opposite leg and the third along the inside of the adjacent
toe to form a support so that the bearing blocks extend from one end of the culvert to the other, as
shown in figure 5.

7.6.2.3.2 Apply the appropriate horizontal proof loads, PhL (see table 3) in three stages, namely
50 %, 75 % and 100 % (see figure 6). While sustaining the loads, examine the culvert for cracks
after each stage. Use the feeler gauge to determine whether any cracks that have developed render
the culvert defective in terms of 5.4.1. The application of the 100 % proof load shall be maintained
for a minimum of 5 min.

7.6.3 Alternative procedures

7.6.3.1 Alternative position of horizontal load

The horizontal load from table 2 may be applied to the foot of the culvert leg. Such an arrangement
requires test apparatus that is substantially different from that shown in figure 3 and ensures
minimal resistance to horizontal movement of the leg while preventing horizontal movement of the
deck. Positioning the legs on a trolley is an acceptable arrangement. Amdt 1

7.6.3.2 Combined vertical and horizontal loads

Carry out the test as described in 7.6.2.1 or 7.6.3.1, but combine the vertical and horizontal loads
and apply them as a single resultant load that is applied along the centre-line of the deck and acts
at the appropriate inclination angle.

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7.7 Ultimate load test

The ultimate load tests shall be conducted as in 7.6 with at least 1,25 times the proof loads and
applied in the same manner.

Figure 1 — Tee-square

Figure 2 — Crack-measuring feeler gauge

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Figure 3 — Positioning of culvert for testing

NOTE Pv is the vertical proof load and can be applied at any point.

Figure 4 — Deck bending moment and sway test Amdt 1

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NOTE Pv (SHEAR) is the vertical proof load and is applied at a required point.
Ph is the horizontal proof load.

Figure 5 — Deck shear test Amdt 1

NOTE PhL is the horizontal proof load for the leg test.

Figure 6 — Inner leg bending moment and shear test Amdt 1

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8 Marking
Each culvert (or each component of a culvert) shall bear the following information, legibly impressed
(during moulding) or indelibly marked in another manner on the inner face of a leg and in such a
position that it cannot be covered by a joint. If H is greater than or equal to 1,5 m, the prop line shall
be a distance of 0,4 × H from the culvert toe. Amdt 1

The following information shall be supplied:

a) the manufacturer’s name, trade name or trade mark and location of the factory;

b) the nominal internal cross-sectional dimensions (see 5.3.1); Amdt 1

c) the class of the culvert (see table 2);

d) the date of manufacture; and

e) any additional project-specific requirements (see annex A).

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Annex A
(normative)

Notes to purchasers
The following requirements shall be specified in tender invitations and in each order or contract:

a) the type and class (see 5.1 and 5.4.1);

b) whether a precast base slab is to be supplied (see 5.1);

c) the nominal internal cross-sectional dimensions (see 5.3.1), or internal cross-sectional area (see
5.3.2) and length (see 5.3.3), as relevant;

d) whether an ultimate load test is to be carried out (see 5.4.2);

e) whether the concrete cover is to be increased (see 5.3.6);

f) the type of protective coating to be applied, if required (see 5.2);

g) whether a mix design using cement extenders is to be used; and

h) whether the materials used in the manufacture have to comply with the purchaser's
requirements. Amdt 1

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Annex B
(informative)

Proof loads for commonly available culverts

Table B.1 amplifies the information from table 2 (see 5.4) in a different format and with regard to
commonly available culvert sizes.

Additional S-loads may be used to designate additional proof loads, but in all cases, the horizontal
load should be 30 kN/m.

Table B.1 — Proof loads for currently manufactured culverts

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Proof loads
kN/m of length
Span (S) Vertical
Pv Horizontal
Culvert class Ph

mm 75S 100S 150S 175S 200S

450 – – – – 90
600 – – – – 120
750 – – – 131,25 –
900 – – – 157,50 –
1 200 – – 180 – –
1 500 – 150 – – – 30
1 800 135 – – – –
2 100 157,5 – – – –
2 400 180 – – – –
3 000 225 – – – –
3 600 270 – – – –

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 SANS 986:2012
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Annex C
(informative)

Quality verification of precast reinforced concrete culverts

C.1 When a purchaser requires ongoing verification of the quality of precast reinforced concrete
culverts, it is suggested that, instead of concentrating solely on evaluation of the final product, he
also direct his attention to the manufacturer’s quality system. In this connection it should be noted
that SANS 9001 covers the provision of an integrated quality system.

C.2 If no information about the implementation of quality control or testing during manufacture is
available to help in assessing the quality of a consignment and a purchaser wishes to establish by
inspection and testing of samples of the final product whether a consignment of the culverts
complies with this standard, a sampling plan based on applicable statistical tables should be agreed
upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser.

It should be noted that

a) such sampling plan applies to the fully manufactured product only; and

b) a consignment that, in terms of the plan, is deemed to comply with the standard could contain
defective culverts to an extent proportional to that permitted by the relevant acceptance
number(s) given in the sampling table (see table 4).

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SANS 986:2012
Edition 3.2

Annex D
(informative)

Recommended cover over steel for different exposure categories

Certain exposure conditions are defined for different exposure categories which are given in
table D.1. The minimum recommended cover over the reinforcement in the culvert in such exposure
conditions is given in table D.2.

For additional guidance on aggressive environmental conditions see EN 206-1.

Table D.1 — Definition of exposure categories guidelines

1 2
Exposure category Exposure conditions in vicinity of culvert
Moderate Concrete protected from direct exposure, limited contact with mildly aggressive
groundwaters
Severe Concrete exposed directly to the environment but not within 1 km of the coast,
contact with fairly aggressive groundwater or where chloride laden winds are
prevalent
Very severe Concrete within 1 km of the coast but with no direct contact with seawater, highly
aggressive groundwater
Extreme Concrete in direct contact with seawater, direct contact with highly aggressive
industrial waters

Table D.2 — Recommended minimum cover over reinforcement for precast

concrete culverts in certain exposure categories

Dimensions in millimetres
1 2 3 4 5
Portland cement
Portland cement
with at least 20 %
Exposure category only
extenders
40 MPa 50 MPa 40 MPa 50 MPa
Moderate 30 25 25 25
Severe 35 30 30 25
Very severe 60 50 50 40
Extreme 75 75 60 50

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 SANS 986:2012
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Bibliography
EN 206-1, Concrete – Part 1: Specification, performance, production and conformity.

SANS 9001/ISO 9001, Quality management systems – Requirements.

TMH7: Parts 1 and 2, Code of practice for the design of highway bridges and culverts in South
Africa.

© SABS

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