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Problem Set No.2: Switchback Problem

ESRM 468 Forest Operations

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Problem

You are pegging in a route on a contour map. The grade line you are using is 10%. You switch back and continue. To get ready for the field you want to calculate the average grade through the swichback.

Case A:

Center of radius at gradeline switchback point. Assuming you run the tangents back from the PC/PT until it connects with the gradeline, what will be the average grade through the switchback?

Case 2:

How far do you have to move the center of the curve out such that the average grade through the SW will be 7% or less.

You can download the map here (zipped). A pdf file shows more detail

For additoinal information go to Switchback Grade Calculations and more

More on Switchback considerations, go to FAO HB

References: Switchback handout