TTI developed a limited deflection anchored portable concrete barrier for use in construction zones with restricted space (such as in a bridge expansion or repair project). The anchor design of the portable concrete barrier was developed through extensive use of finite element analysis. This design restricts lateral barrier movement using steel pins that are simply dropped into inclined holes passing through the toe of the barrier and a short depth into the bridge deck or concrete pavement underneath.
Simulation analysis was used to evaluate some of the key design parameters such as the anchoring pin inclination angle, barrier profile (‘F’ or New Jersey), barrier segment length, anchoring pin diameter, etc. A full-scale crash test of the final design was performed to verify simulation results. The barrier meets NCHRP Report 350 Test Level 3 requirements (i.e. 4,400 lb pickup truck impacting the barrier at 62.2 mph speed at a 25-degree angle). The static and dynamic deflections of the barrier in the crash test were 11.5 and 5.8 inches, respectively.
Reference
-
N.M. Sheikh, R.P. Bligh, W.L. Menges. Crash Testing and Evaluation of the 12-ft Pinned F-shape Temporary Barrier. Report 405160-3-1/2a. Texas A&M Transportation Institute, College Station, TX. April 2008.