10 Things You Need to Know About AASHTO M180 Galvanized Guardrail.
Guardrails are essential safety devices that prevent motorists from making contact with hazardous objects like trees, embankments, and concrete barriers along the roadways. Designing and installing effective guardrails that meet the safety standards set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) M180 is critical in protecting the lives of road users. Here are ten things you need to know about AASHTO M180 galvanized guardrails.
1. What is AASHTO M180 Galvanized Guardrail?
AASHTO M180 is a set of safety standards that prescribe the minimum guidelines for the design, construction, and installation of highway safety systems in the US. One of the products governed by these standards is the galvanized corrugated steel guardrail consisting of a series of corrugated steel panels, posts, and bolts.
2. Why Galvanizing?
The galvanization of guardrail components prevents rust and corrosion caused by moisture and other environmental factors. Galvanizing also enhances the durability and strength of the guardrail system, ensuring that it can resist deformation and withstand the impact of moving vehicles.
3. Types of Guardrail Systems.
There are three primary types of guardrail systems that conform to AASHTO M180 specifications. These include the strong post system, the weak post system, and the cable barrier system. The strong post system is the most common and is designed to use steel posts spaced at a maximum distance of six feet.
4. Installation and Maintenance.
The guardrail installation process involves the preparation of the site, placement of posts, fitting and installation of the guardrail panels, and finally, backfilling and compaction of the soil. Maintenance of the guardrail involves regular inspection to assess the condition of the guardrail and replacement of worn or damaged components.
5. Safety Standards.
The AASHTO M180 standards set out the minimum requirements for guardrail design, such as the post spacing, panel dimensions, and the types of hardware used in installation. The safety standards also set out guidelines for testing the guardrail's performance against various criteria, including standard impact tests and lateral displacement.
6. Guardrail Height.
The AASHTO M180 specifications prescribe a minimum height of 31 inches for the guardrail system installed in flat terrain and 27 inches for steep embankments. These heights help prevent vehicles from vaulting over the barrier.
7. End Treatments.
Guardrails must have end treatments that redirect or absorb the kinetic energy of a crash. The most common end treatments are the flared, tangential, and terminal impact attenuators.
8. Compatibility.
Guardrail systems must be compatible with other safety devices along the roadside, such as signs, light standards, and drainage structures. They must also work seamlessly with other safety measures such as rumble strips and median barriers.
9. Cost.
The cost of AASHTO M180 galvanized guardrails varies based on the length, region, and type of installation. Some installation sites may require additional labor and equipment to complete a project, increasing the final cost.
10. Get it from a Reliable Supplier.
Guardrails are critical safety devices, and it is essential to source them from a reputable and experienced supplier like us. We offer a variety of guardrail products that meet AASHTO M180 specifications and strive to deliver quality products at competitive prices.
Conclusion.
Installing a guardrail system that meets AASHTO M180 standards is a crucial safety measure that safeguards the lives of motorists and other road users. With these ten things to consider, you can source and install a guardrail system that is durable, efficient, and compatible with other safety measures. Remember to contact us for quality AASHTO M180 galvanized guardrails that meet the required safety standards.
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