BOXCAR Software (Box Culvert Analysis and Reinforcing Design) from the American Concrete Pipe Association can help you significantly reduce design time and project costs by calculating reinforcing steel areas for user-specified box geometry, material properties and loading data.

BOXCAR Version 2.0 is an updated version of the original software program developed by the Federal Highway Administration, in cooperation with the American Concrete Pipe Association. The interactive program incorporates the direct method of design for the structural analysis and design of precast reinforced concrete box culvert sections by using the following steps:

• Compute and apply loads to the structure
• Complete a structural analysis
• Design reinforcing to carry the resulting moments, thrusts and shears.

BOXCAR Version 2.0 provides complete structural analysis for loads due to box weight, soil weight, internal gravity fluid weight, live loads and user specified surcharge loads.

EASE OF USE

Using a Microsoft Windows-based operating program, the user-friendly input routines incorporated in BOXCAR Version 2.0 require only minimal computer experience. The user controls most parameters; however, knowledge of structural design codes is essential. BOXCAR Version 2.0 is intended to be a design tool for the practicing engineer.

User instructions include descriptions of all input variables and help screens. Structural design methods conform to standards set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and include ultimate flexure, shear and service load crack control.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

To use the BOXCAR Software (Version 2.0) you need:

• Any computer with an Intel Pentium ® processor or higher
• A CD-ROM drive
• A hard disk with at least 150 megabytes of free disk space
• A graphic display compatible with Microsoft Windows 95, 98, NT4 or later, such as SVGA (Recommended display resolution: 800 x 600 with 16-bit color.)
• At least 32 megabytes of RAM memory
• Microsoft Windows 95, 98, NT4 or later

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

For assistance in using the BOXCAR program, contact any member of the American Concrete Pipe Association. For an ACPA membership directory, consult http://www.concrete-pipe.org/. Technical assistance may also be obtained by contacting ACPA at (972) 506-7216 or e-mail: info@concrete-pipe.org.

To order BoxCar, contact your local Inland Pipe Representative or the ACPA Resource Center toll-free at (800) 290-2272, fax (972) 291-0622, web http://www.concrete-pipe.org/resourcecenter.htm . Specify resource item #15-901.