When establishing sewer alignments for a new drainage district, the recommended setting-out procedure generally starts from which location and proceeds upstream?
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AFrom the city center outward
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BFrom the outfall (discharge point) upstream toward the tail ends
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CFrom the tail end downstream toward the outfall
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DFrom any convenient point in the network
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EFrom the highest ground elevation only
Answer
Correct Answer: From the outfall (discharge point) upstream toward the tail ends
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Accurate layout of sewer lines requires hydraulic continuity and feasible gradients. A practical field procedure is to start where the system must ultimately discharge and then work progressively upstream.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Gravity sewer system with a defined outfall to a treatment plant or water body.
- Gradients and cover must be maintained while avoiding deep excavations.
Concept / Approach:Starting from the outfall ensures that downstream constraints (invert elevations, receiving works) are honored first. Designers can then establish feasible slopes and depths for upstream reaches, minimizing costly re-grading and conflict with utilities.
Step-by-Step Solution:Fix the outfall invert and grade based on receiving structure requirements.Set upstream invert levels to maintain self-cleansing velocities and cover.Iterate through branches to maintain hydraulic continuity and avoid excessive depths.
Verification / Alternative check:Field practice and surveying workflows commonly begin from benchmarks at the outfall, ensuring cumulative fall is adequate and conflicts at the discharge are avoided.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Starting at the city center or tail ends risks mis-matching levels at the outfall.
- “Any convenient point” ignores critical boundary conditions.
- Highest ground is not necessarily hydraulically controlling.
Common Pitfalls:Neglecting downstream constraints first; this can force expensive redesigns or deep excavation later.
Final Answer:From the outfall (discharge point) upstream toward the tail ends.