In this project, TTI researchers performed predictive finite element analyses and subsequent full scale crash tests are presented for a high containment bridge rail design. The bridge rail design was analyzed using nonlinear finite element method using the conditions of EN-1317 tests TB-11 and TB-71. EN-1317 test TB-11 involves a 900 kg passenger car impacting the barrier at a speed of 100 km/h and an angle of 20 degrees. EN-1317 test TB-71 involves a 30 000 kg heavy goods vehicle (HGV) impacting the barrier at a speed of 65 km/h and an angle of 20 degrees. Subsequently, two full scale crash tests (EN-1317 tests TB-11 and TB-71) of the bridge rail system were conducted. The tests results corroborated the prediction of the finite element simulation and the rail system is considered passed per EN-1317 criteria.
Small vehicle (900 kg) impact per EN-1317 TB-11. Left: Predictive simulation. Right: Full scale Crash test.
Heavy goods vehicle (30,000 kg) impact per EN-1317 TB-71. Left: Predictive simulation. Right: Full scale Crash test.