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Table 3-8. Dimensions and Spacing of Steel Dowels
Thickness of Slab Diameter Length Spacing
6-7 in (152-178 mm) ¾ in (20 mm) 18 in (460 mm) 12 in (305 mm)
7.5-12 in (191-305 mm) 1 in (25 mm) 18 in (460 mm) 12 in (305 mm)
12.5-16 in (318-406 mm) 1 ¼ in (30 mm) 20 in (510 mm) 15 in (380 mm)
16.5-20 in (419-508 mm) 1 ½ in (40 mm) 20 in (510 mm) 18 in (460 mm)
20.5-24 in (521-610 mm) 2 in (50 mm) 24 in (610 mm) 18 in (460 mm)
3.14.11 Joint Sealants and Fillers.
Sealants are used in all joints to prevent the ingress of water and foreign material into
the joint. In isolation joints premolded compressible filler is used to accommodate
movement of the slabs, and sealant is applied above the filler to prevent infiltration of
water and foreign material. The depth (D) and width (W) of the joint sealant reservoir
is a function of the type of sealant material used. For joint sealants to perform as
intended, the joint sealant material and reservoir be must constructed in accordance with
the joint sealant manufacturer s recommendations for that type of sealant. For example
typically hot pour sealants perform best with a 1:1 D/W ratio, where silicone sealants
perform best with a 1:2 D/W ratio. See Figure 3-15c for typical joint reservoir details.
Backer rod material must be compatible with the type of sealant used and sized to
provide the desired shape factor. Specifications for joint sealants are given in Item P-
605, Joint Sealants for Concrete Pavements, and Item P-604, Compression Joint Seals
for Concrete Pavements.
3.14.12 Joint Layout and Spacing.
[Link] Pavement joint layout requires the selection of the proper joint type(s),
spacing, and dimensions to ensure the joints perform their intended
function. Construction considerations are also important in determining
the joint layout pattern. Generally, it is more economical to keep the
number and width of paving lanes to a minimum. Keep the slab width (w)
to length (l) ratio no greater than 1:1.25. Paving lane widths and location
of in-pavement light fixtures will affect joint spacing and layout. Joints
should be placed with respect to light fixtures in accordance with AC
150/5340-30, Design and Installation Details for Airport Visual Aids.
Innovative Pavement Research Foundation (IPRF) Report 01-G-002-03-01
Constructing In-pavement Lighting, Portland Cement Pavement includes
sample details for the installation of in pavement lights. In addition,
Figure 3-16 shows a typical jointing plan for a runway end, parallel
taxiway, and connector. Figure 3-17 shows a typical jointing plan for
pavement for a 75-foot (23-m) wide runway. For sample PCC Joint plans,
see [Link]
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[Link] When designing joint layouts for intersections, consider the following for
isolation joints, odd-shaped slabs, and slabs with structures or other
embedments.
1. Isolation Joints. Intersecting pavements, such as a taxiway and
runway, should be isolated to allow the pavements to move
independently. In addition at locations where it is necessary to
change the joint pattern, isolation joints are required. Isolation can
be accomplished by using a Type A isolation joint between the two
pavements where the two pavements meet. The isolation joint
should be positioned to allow the two pavements to move
independently of each other.
2. Odd-Shaped Slabs and Slabs with Structures or Other
Embedments. Because cracks tend to form in odd-shaped slabs and
in slabs with structures and other embedments, it is good practice to
maintain sections that are nearly square or rectangular in shape.
Where odd-shaped slabs or slabs with structures cannot be avoided,
embedded steel is required. In slabs where the length-to-width ratio
exceeds 1.25, or in slabs that are not rectangular in shape, the slabs
must be reinforced. The embedded steel should consist of no less
than 0.050 percent of the gross cross-sectional area of the slab in both
directions. In addition embedded steel must be placed around the
perimeter of embedded structures. Although steel does not prevent
cracking, it helps keep the cracks that do form tightly closed. The
interlock of the irregular faces of the cracked slab provides structural
integrity of the slab maintaining pavement performance. In addition,
by holding the cracks tightly closed, the steel minimizes the
infiltration of debris into the cracks. The embedded steel should be
placed in accordance with the recommendations given below.
3. The thickness of pavements with crack control steel is the same as for
plain concrete pavement.
4. Steel may be either bar mats or welded wire fabric installed with end
and side laps to provide steel throughout the slab. Longitudinal
members should be not less than 4 inches (100 mm) or more than 12
inches (305 mm) apart; transverse members should be not less than 4
inches (100 mm) or more than 24 inches (610 mm) apart. End laps
should be a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) but not less than 30
times the diameter of the longitudinal bar or wire. Side laps should
be a minimum of 6 inches (150 mm) but not less than 20 times the
diameter of the transverse bar or wire. End and side clearances
should be a maximum of 6 inches (150 mm) and a minimum of 2
inches (50 mm). Steel should be placed approximately in the middle
of the slab.
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