Short, Portable Concrete Barrier Simplifies Maintenance Operations

This project summary report summarizes the research performed in Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Project 0-4692. This project developed and tested a portable barrier system for high-speed applications that can be easily transported and erected by TxDOT maintenance forces using readily available equipment such as a front-end loader. The project panel selected the F-shape barrier with X-bolt connection for further evaluation during this project. The primary means of achieving better portability involved reducing the length of the barrier segments from 30 feet to 10 feet. The measured weight of prototypes of the 10-feet barrier segments with X-bolt connection was 4530 pounds. A review of available end treatments for concrete median barriers (CMB) was conducted to identify existing products suitable for use with the new barrier. Various analyses were performed to help assess the ability of this barrier system to meet National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Report 350 impact performance criteria and quantify its design deflection. Subsequent to design and simulation, a full-scale crash test was conducted to assess impact performance and quantify the design deflection of the cross-bolted F-shape barrier. Based on the results of the testing and evaluation, the new precast, cross-bolt, F-shape concrete traffic barrier with 10-foot barrier segments is considered suitable for implementation on high-speed roadways. The cross-bolt connection system adapted for use in the new barrier helps limit dynamic deflection during an impact. The F-shape profile of the barrier maintains compatibility with the standard TxDOT X-bolt, F-shape barrier with 30-foot segments without the need for a special barrier transition section should it be desirable to connect the systems together. The F-shape barrier profile should provide improved safety in comparison with New Jersey profile barriers by reducing the frequency of rollover crashes.