AASHTO PP 63-09

Pipe Joint Design considerations are a critical component for the overall performance of culvertand storm drain installations. Experience has shown that the component responsible for manyculvert and sewer performance problems and failures can be traced back to the pipe joint. Thestructural and hydraulic performance of the joint affects the stability of backfill and soil envelopearound the pipe, the line and grade of the culvert, integrity of the overlying embankment andpavement, and compliance to storm and sanitary sewer permits. This practice is to provide cleardefinitions of joint performance terms, rational design methodology to determine appropriate jointperformance requirements, and uniform criteria for manufacturers joint qualification andcontractors post-installation pipe joint testing.