Enter the horizontal and vertical distances into the calculator to determine the crossfall percentage. Crossfall is the rate of change from the horizontal to the vertical plane, which is important in road and railway construction for drainage.

Crossfall Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the crossfall percentage:

CF = (VD / HD) * 100

Variables:

  • CF% is the crossfall percentage (%)
  • VD is the vertical distance (meters)
  • HD is the horizontal distance (meters)

To calculate the crossfall percentage, divide the vertical distance by the horizontal distance and then multiply by 100 to convert it to a percentage.

What is Crossfall?

Crossfall, also known as camber, is the slope that roads, railways, and other pathways have to allow for water drainage. It is usually expressed as a percentage, indicating how much the surface slopes compared to the horizontal distance. Proper crossfall is crucial to prevent water accumulation on the surface, which can lead to safety hazards and structural damage over time.

How to Calculate Crossfall?

The following steps outline how to calculate the crossfall percentage:


  1. First, measure the horizontal distance (HD) across the surface where the crossfall is to be calculated.
  2. Next, measure the vertical distance (VD) from the high point to the low point of the surface.
  3. Use the formula CF% = (VD / HD) * 100 to calculate the crossfall percentage.
  4. Enter the measured values into the calculator above to verify the crossfall percentage.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Horizontal Distance (HD) = 15 meters

Vertical Distance (VD) = 0.3 meters