Research Article

Machine Learning and Statistical Test–Based Culvert Condition Impact Factor Analysis

Table 2

Definitions of culvert ratings in Ohio.

Name of ratingDefinition

Material condition ratingRates the general material condition of the structure, like deterioration to barrel material and crack
Culvert alignment ratingAccounts for irregularities longitudinally to the barrel or imbalanced settlement of barrel segments
Shape ratingAccounts for barrel flattening, buckling, bulging, out-of-roundness, and other signs that the shape is not equal to original design
Seams or joints ratingRates the extent of backfill infiltration and water exfiltration from open joint or seepage at the joints
Slab ratingSlab top culverts only. Accounts for leakage, deterioration, and structural adequacy of the slab
Abutments ratingSlab top culverts only. Accounts for movement, material defects, and scour of the foundation of the abutments
Headwall ratingAccounts for scour or undermining around footings and at the inlet and outlet of the culvert
End structure ratingRates structural condition of catch basins, inlets, manholes, junction chambers or other end structures
Channel alignment ratingAccounts for channel or flow shift caused by changes in the drainage channel
Channel protection ratingRates condition of any used channel protection structure
Waterway blockage ratingAccounts for the amount of sediment builds up that blocks the waterway of the culvert
Scour ratingAccounts for existence and size of scour holes
Pavement ratingRates the condition of the approach pavement
Guardrail ratingAccounts for sag, rotation, or misalignment of the guardrail
EmbankmentAccounts for settlement, bulging or erosion of the approach embankment
General appraisalThe lowest rating of the 15 others