Corrugation
Corrugation is a series of closely spaced ridges and valleys (ripples) occurring at fairly regular intervals (usually less that 5 ft [1.5 m]) along the pavement. The ridges are perpendicular to the traffic direction. Traffic action combined with an unstable pavement surface or base usually causes this type of distress.
Severity | Distress Example | Description |
---|---|---|
Low | Corrugation is very rarely found on airports, and it is difficult to see in photographs. The two photos below are examples of high-severity corrugation. | Corrugations are minor and do not significantly affect ride quality. Runways and High-Speed Taxiways: < 1/4 in (< 6 mm) Taxiways and Aprons: < 1/2 in (< 13 mm) |
Medium | Corrugations are noticeable and significantly affect ride quality. Runways and High-Speed Taxiways: 1/4 to 1/2 in (6 to 13 mm) Taxiways and Aprons: 1/2 to 1 in (13 to 25 mm) | |
High | Corrugations are easily noticeable and severely affect ride quality. Runways and High-Speed Taxiways: > 1/2 in (> 13 mm) Taxiways and Aprons: > 1 in (> 25 mm) |