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Sitework & Earthworkaka: cut/fillaka: earthwork balance

Cut and Fill

In Plain English

The grading process of digging down the high spots of a site and using that dirt to fill in the low spots.

Definition

A grading process where material is excavated (cut) from high areas and used to fill low areas of a site, minimizing the need to import or export soil. A balanced cut-and-fill design means the earthwork volume cut equals the volume needed for fill, reducing hauling costs. Cut-to-fill distances, material suitability, and compaction requirements affect the feasibility of a balanced earthwork design.

Example

The civil engineer optimized the grading plan to achieve a balanced cut-and-fill, eliminating the need for any imported or exported material.

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