KEY INSTALLATION ISSUES IMPACTING THE PERFORMANCE OF GEOCOMPOSITE PAVEMENT EDGEDRAIN SYSTEMS

This paper addresses the key issues impacting the performance of geocomposite pavement edgedrain systems. This includes maintaining the verticality of the drain panel in the trench, proper positioning of the drain panel within the trench, backfilling with open-graded coarse aggregate, timely installation of outlet fittings and pipe, and the use of outlet pipes with adequate pipe stiffness. Three highway rehabilitation projects involving the installation of approximately 120 km (400,000 L.F.) of geocomposite edgedrains in Virginia and Ohio are investigated and lessons learned documented in this paper. Actual cost savings, up to 50% were realized due to the use of geocomposite edgedrain compared to conventional edgedrains. Conclusions and recommendations are presented in support of successful installations and lasting performance to meet pavement design life requirements.