MASH TL-3 TESTING OF A THRIE-BEAM GUARDRAIL SYSTEM AT A FIXED OBJECT (614031/Task Order DW)

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Final Report Link: MASH TL-3 TESTING OF A THRIE-BEAM GUARDRAIL SYSTEM AT A FIXED OBJECT

 

TTI Research Supervisor:

James C. Kovar, E.I.T.

Associate Transportation Researcher

Texas A&M Transportation Institute

TAMU 3135

College Station, Texas 77843-3135

(979) 317-2680

[email protected]

  Pooled Fund Technical Representative:

Tim Moeckel

Roadside Safety Engineer

Washington State Department of Transportation

Development Division

P.O. Box 47329 Olympia, WA 98504-7246

(360) 704-6307

[email protected]

 


ABSTRACT

The objective of this project was to develop a stiffened thrie-beam system, which could be implemented in close proximity to fixed objects. In pursuit of this goal, the research team performed numerous computer simulations to determine the minimum required offset to limit the interaction between an impacting vehicle and the fixed object. The researcher team developed both half-post spacing and quarter-post spacing alternative systems with a 75-inch gap between posts through computer simulations. The critical alternative, the quarter-post spacing system with 75-inch gap, was evaluated through physical crash testing. This system successfully met MASH evaluation criteria for tests 3-11 and 3-10. With positive correlation between the computer simulation and physical crash testing, the research team concluded both the quarter-post spacing and half-post spacing alternatives were suitable for implementation on the roadside. Lastly, the research team recommended a transition option for connecting the stiffened systems developed in this project to standard MGS.

 

2024-05-29 (May 29)