Basket-handle arch calculator

A basket-handle arch combines circular arcs into a low, broad profile. The selected shape determines the transition from the sides to the centre. BrickCore uses this geometry to divide the bricks and joints.

Enter, check and download

Choose the basket-arch shape and enter opening, rise and brick dimensions. Inspect the joins between the arcs. The calculation provides setting-out dimensions and individual profiles for the chosen brick layout.

basket-handle arch, three-centred arch

Basket-handle arch calculator

Which dimensions do you enter?

Enter the clear span and rise above the springing line. Choose the available basket-arch construction, brick size, ring depth and joint. The construction matters: identical width and height can produce different centres with another method.

How does the brick layout work?

A basket-handle arch joins circular segments smoothly. Each segment has its own radius and centre, so use the correct joint setting-out lines for each part. An elliptical arch can look similar, but its curvature changes continuously.

Worked example

A basket-handle arch 160 cm wide and 50 cm high is lower than a semicircular arch of the same span, which rises 80 cm. The chosen construction determines the individual radii and transition points.

From calculation to PDF worksheet

A free account lets you view the calculation and drawing. The PDF contains calculated dimensions and cutting profiles; a download costs one credit. Follow the scale on the worksheet. Print full-size cutting templates at 100% with ‘fit to page’ disabled.

Read the free manual setting-out guide (Dutch)