Corrugated Steel Structural Plate, Zinc-Coated, for Field-Bolted Pipe, Pipe-Arches, and Arches

A761/A761M-15: Standard Specification for Corrugated Steel Structural Plate, Zinc-Coated, for Field-Bolted Pipe, Pipe-Arches, and Arches

For engineers and project managers involved in civil infrastructure, ensuring the durability and structural integrity of buried drainage systems is paramount. The AASHTO A761/A761M-15 standard provides an essential framework for specifying and procuring corrugated steel structural plates, a critical component in constructing robust and long-lasting pipe, pipe-arches, and arches. This comprehensive specification ensures that these vital components meet stringent quality and performance requirements.

What is A761/A761M-15?

AASHTO A761/A761M-15 is an industry-leading standard that defines the material properties, fabrication, and testing requirements for zinc-coated corrugated steel structural plates. Developed by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), its primary purpose is to ensure the reliable performance of field-bolted structures used in various transportation and water management applications.

Scope & Purpose

This authoritative standard governs the specifications for corrugated steel structural plate, including its zinc coating, and associated fastening materials. It specifically covers plates used for constructing field-assembled pipes, pipe-arches, arches, underpasses, and other custom shapes. Notably, A761/A761M-15 does not dictate requirements for site-specific bedding, backfill, or the intricate relationship between earth cover loads and plate thickness; these aspects are addressed in complementary design and installation practices.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Civil Engineers, Structural Engineers, Project Managers, Materials Engineers, Construction Foremen, and Procurement Specialists.
• • Industries affected: Transportation Infrastructure, Road Construction, Water Management, Civil Engineering, and general Construction.
• • Compliance nature: Recommended by AASHTO for transportation projects, and often a mandatory contractual requirement for public works and infrastructure development.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified by project owners, transportation agencies, and independent testing laboratories through material submittals and site inspections.

Key Requirements Overview

Professionals must ensure that the corrugated steel structural plates procured and installed adhere to several core principles outlined in A761/A761M-15. Key provisions include:

• • The specification mandates specific requirements for the steel base material, including its chemical composition and mechanical properties.
• • Stringent criteria are set for the application and adherence of the zinc coating, ensuring adequate corrosion protection for the intended service life.
• • The standard details the dimensions and geometry of corrugations, as well as the types of seams (lap or flange) and their respective bolt hole patterns.
• • Requirements for accessory materials, such as bolts, nuts, and any necessary repair materials for coatings, are also defined.
• • Fabricators must adhere to specified manufacturing tolerances to ensure proper field assembly and structural integrity.

Related Standards & References

To achieve optimal results, A761/A761M-15 is often used in conjunction with other proven standards. These include AASHTO **A79