Sizing Catch Basin

[arcoiris74]

Another basic item I don't know about. How do you properly design/size a catch basin? For example, if you are receiving say 1000 gpm, do you chose a bsin which can hold 1000 gal.? May sound like a dumb question, most people I know have just sized on gut feeling, no particular reference.

Gee

 

[msquared48]

What you size a catch basin to is at least one of the following:

1. The capacity of the grate inlet.

2. The size and number of the drainage pipes coming to it.

3. For what has to go inside it as pump equipment, orifice pipes, ladders, etc.

4. The depth below grade of the bottom of the catch basin.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[newnickname]

Most jurisdictions have a drainage manual that aids design. For example one jurisdiction I do work in requires that the spread be less than 1/2 the roadway width on a public road. The formulas are in the manual and a spreadsheet can be created to streamline the design process. My advice is: Read, read, read.

 

[cvg]

nothing wrong with gut feel as long as it is based upon good past experience. However, I really have never seen anybody design a catch basin without checking the capacity. Check the FHWA website for the basics on street drainage.

Start with the following:
Report No. FHWA-NHI-01-021 HEC-22, Urban Drainage Design Manual, Hydraulic Engineering Circular 22