Abstract: Based on centrifugal model test,the whole course of distress of culverts was analyzed by simulating the foundation,ravine land,fill material and construction technology of practical projects.The software of image measuring was utilized to reproduce the interaction course among the soil mass,culvert structure and ground.And it was shown that the destruction mechanism of culvert structure was attributed to the phenomena of shoulder pole,which was engendered because of longitudinal unequal settlement.The evolution of crack on the culvert model was described by recording of video tape,which was simultaneously contrasted to the practical diseased project.