ConTech Engineered Solutions new aluminum box culverts are a practical and cost-effective solution for small bridge replacement. According to ConTech, the wide-span, low-rise culverts are lightweight, faster and easier to install than cast-in-place concrete structures.

Some of the benefits include a buried bridge structure that reduces maintenance costs and a lower life cycle cost. The modular bridge system has a reduced overall project cost because installation can be done at a rapid pace, according to ConTech.

The company said no large installation crews or special equipment is required; there are no delays due to curing time because there are no forms to set and remove.

The aluminum culvert also has flexible layout options to fit within the right-of-way—curve the structure with a stream or adjust for vertical and horizontal clearance requirements. The structures are available in a large range of standard sizes—from 8’-9” span x 2’-6” rise to 25’- 5” span x 10’-2” rise—that permit a minimum cover of only 17 inches for all spans, handling HS20 or HS25 live loads. ConTech said larger aluminum box culvert sizes may be available.

National Specification ConTech Aluminum Box Culvert design and installation is covered by A.A.S.H.T.O. Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges (Sec 12.8). The material is covered by A.A.S.H.T.O. M 219 and ASTM B 864.