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Subgrade in cut vs Subgrade in fill

This guide explains the differences between subgrade in cut and subgrade in fill, which are essential for road construction. Subgrade in cut involves excavating existing soil, while subgrade in fill involves raising ground level with compacted fill material. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for ensuring road stability and preventing settlement.

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61 views

Subgrade in cut vs Subgrade in fill

This guide explains the differences between subgrade in cut and subgrade in fill, which are essential for road construction. Subgrade in cut involves excavating existing soil, while subgrade in fill involves raising ground level with compacted fill material. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for ensuring road stability and preventing settlement.

Uploaded by

hadikhalid2030
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Subgrade in Cut vs.

Subgrade in Fill: A Comprehensive Guide

• Introduction

Subgrade refers to the foundation layer of soil that supports the pavement structure in road
construction. It plays a crucial role in determining the overall stability and performance of the
road. This guide explores the two main types of subgrades: subgrade in cut and subgrade in fill.

1. Subgrade in Cut

Subgrade in cut refers to the subgrade that is created by excavating or cutting into the existing ground to
reach the desired subgrade level. The natural soil in this area forms the subgrade after proper preparation
and compaction.

Key Points:

• The subgrade consists of the existing natural soil.


• Requires careful removal of unsuitable material and shaping of the ground.
• May require drainage measures to prevent water accumulation.

2. Subgrade in Fill
Subgrade in fill refers to the subgrade that is created by raising the ground level using fill materials to
reach the desired subgrade elevation. This is typically done when the natural ground is lower than the
required subgrade level.
Key Points:

• The subgrade consists of compacted fill material.


• Requires careful selection and placement of fill material.
• Requires thorough compaction to achieve desired density and strength.
• More prone to settlement than subgrade in cut.
3. Key Differences between Subgrade in Cut and Subgrade in Fill
• Subgrade in Cut: Involves excavating the existing ground to reach the desired subgrade
level. The subgrade consists of the natural soil after preparation.

• Subgrade in Fill: Involves raising the ground level using fill materials to reach the desired
subgrade elevation.

In our scenario, since the subgrade is created by filling the area below the NGL, it falls under the
category of subgrade in fill.

Key Points:

• The location relative to NGL doesn't determine the subgrade type.

• The method of creation (excavation or filling) is the defining factor.

Feature Subgrade in Cut Subgrade in Fill

Material Composition Existing natural soil Compacted fill material


Preparation Removal of unsuitable material, Placement and compaction of fill
shaping, and compaction of material
existing soil
Stability Generally more stable More prone to settlement

Drainage Can be challenging to drain Requires proper drainage


measures

5. Conclusion

Understanding the differences between subgrade in cut and subgrade in fill is essential for successful road
construction projects. Subgrade in cut, while generally more stable, requires careful drainage
management. Subgrade in fill, on the other hand, requires proper material selection and thorough
compaction to prevent settlement.

By considering these factors and implementing appropriate design and construction practices, engineers
can ensure the long-term performance and durability of road pavements.
References:

• AASHTO Guide for the Design of Pavement Structures (AASHTO 1993)


• Transportation Research Board (TRB) publications
• State Department of Transportation (DOT) manuals
Example for Subgrade in Cut For our information:

• Compaction of Natural Ground


In case of cutting the natural ground, surface will be considered as subgrade. The subgrade soil is
then compacted using heavy machinery such as rollers or compactors. Compaction increases the
soil's density and strength, reducing its susceptibility to settling under the weight of the road. Up
to a depth of twenty (20) cm below the natural ground, all solids and vegetation shall be removed
and clear surface shall be broken up by ploughing and scarifying. The natural ground will be
compacted up to a depth of 20 cm to a degree as defined below:

S.No. Height of Embankment (cm) Percent of MDD (AASHTO T-180)

1 0 to 30 95

2 30 to 75 93

3 Over 75 90

4 Below road foundation 95

Thanks for reading,


Please feel free to contact me regarding any related matter.

Hadi Alabbas (Consultant)


Civil inspector (ETSD) Spine-II
NEOM-ETSD Quality & Excellence
Mobile: +966 501245701
Email : [email protected]
Web: WWW.NEOM.COM

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