Linear Drainage

The Linear Drainage Calculator was developed by ACO experts as a tool supporting the design of linear drainage systems. The application assists designers in determining stormwater runoff volumes and selecting the appropriate drainage system based on load class, application area, and hydraulic parameters. The calculator enables the creation of both simple and complex catchment models, taking into account different surface types and runoff coefficients, allowing for a realistic representation of design conditions.

The tool guides users through the entire design process — from selecting the drainage type, defining parameters, and positioning outlets, to choosing a complete solution together with technical documentation. Users can design drainage systems of various lengths, apply multiple outlets within a single drainage line, and control the spacing between outlets, which directly affects system performance. The calculator also enables the determination of channel fill levels and automatically suggests several drainage solutions that meet the specified design criteria. As a result, it significantly reduces calculation time and facilitates the selection of the optimal solution.

The tool can be used in the design of various types of facilities and surfaces, including railway platforms, sidewalks, streets, parking lots, underground garages, logistics centers, ports, and airports.

Selection of Linear Drainage Parameters

To correctly select a linear drainage system, the basic parameters affecting hydraulic calculations and system selection must be completed.

Type of Project

This parameter defines the application area of the drainage system, such as a sidewalk, parking lot, road, or industrial facility. Based on this information, the system selects the appropriate drainage type and suggests a suitable load class.

This parameter is essential because it:

  • determines the expected operational loads,
  • influences the selection of the appropriate drainage system type,
  • allows the system to suggest the correct load class in accordance with EN 1433.

Load Class

The load class defines the resistance of the drainage system to loads caused by pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
The system automatically suggests an appropriate class based on the selected project type; however, the user may also adjust it manually.

According to PN-EN 1433:2005, the following load classes are available:

  • A15 – load up to 15 kN, mainly intended for pedestrian and bicycle traffic,
  • B125 – load up to 125 kN, suitable for passenger car parking areas,
  • C250 – load up to 250 kN, used near curbs and roads,
  • D400 – load up to 400 kN, intended for carriageways and heavy vehicular traffic,
  • E600 – load up to 600 kN, designed for industrial and logistics facilities,
  • F900 – load up to 900 kN, used in areas with extremely high loads, such as airports and ports.

Proper selection of the load class ensures the durability and safe operation of the drainage system.

Outlet Layout Scheme

The user defines the drainage length and positions outlets along individual channel sections. Proper outlet planning improves system efficiency, ensures smooth water flow, and supports the correct selection of channel cross-sections.

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Outlet Layout Scheme

The user defines the drainage length and positions outlets along individual channel sections. Proper outlet planning improves system efficiency, ensures smooth water flow, and supports the correct selection of channel cross-sections.

Rainfall Model

Finally, the rainfall model and design rainfall parameters are selected in order to determine the hydraulic capacity of the drainage system.

Results of Linear Drainage Parameter Selection

After the calculations are completed, the calculator presents proposed solutions that meet the specified hydraulic requirements.

The results include:

  • parameters of the selected linear drainage system,
  • calculated flow rate,
  • percentage channel fill level,
  • basic dimensions and technical parameters of the system.

The application may suggest several drainage variants whose parameters are adjusted to the selected channel fill level and design assumptions.
Additionally, the user can manually define the maximum system height and the percentage fill level of the drainage channel.

Finally, the results can be downloaded as a PDF report together with technical documentation and drainage system drawings.