Report Result

TRP-03-295-14

Bob Bielenberg, Tyson Quinn, Ronald Faller, Dean Sicking, John Reid

PUBLICATION DATE

2014-03-31

ABSTRACT

The objective of this research effort was to develop a stiffening mechanism for use in reducing the deflection of temporary concrete barrier (TCB) installations without requiring anchorage of the barrier segments to the road surface. The joint- stiffening mechanism was developed for use with the Midwest Pooled Fund States' 12.5-ft (3.8-m) long, F-shape, temporary concrete barrier. The research effort included development and analysis of mechanisms for limiting deflections through engineering analysis and LS-DYNA computer simulation. Following analysis of the candidate designs, an initial prototype design was full-scale crash tested. Following the first full-scale crash test, the low-deflection TCB system was modified to further reduce deflections and full-scale crash tested a second time. The final version of the low-deflection TCB system was capable of reducing dynamic barrier deflections almost 50% over free-standing TCB installations while still safely redirecting errant vehicles. LS-DYNA simulations of a pickup truck striking the low-deflection TCB system at the 85th percentile impact severity were conducted to estimate the deflection of the barrier. The predicted deflection was then used to set placement criteria for non-critical installations.

KEYWORDS

Highway Safety, Crash Test, Roadside Appurtenances, Compliance Test, MASH, Temporary Concrete Barrier, Deflection, Portable Concrete Barrier

REPORT

TRP-03-295-14.pdf