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 No Photo 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 No Photo 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 Overview photo of the end of a runway pavement.  Within the photo a series of deep transverse corrugations are visible on the pavement. 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)