Aesthetically Pleasing Concrete Beam and Posts Bridge Rail-Texas Type T411

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Aesthetically Pleasing Concrete Beam and Posts Bridge Rail-Texas Type T411

T. J. Hirsch / C. E. Buth / W. Campise / D. Kaderka

Research has developed railing to withstand impact loads from vehicles of ever-increasing size; however aesthetic considerations have been overshadowed by safety and structural requirements. The study sought to develop aesthetically pleasing, structurally sound railings that can serve as alternative railings in city or urban areas. The report presents a new open type concrete bridge rail, Texas Type T411. The bridge rail is constructed of reinforced concrete 32 in. high by 12 in. thick and contains 8 in. wide by 18 in. high openings at 18 in. center-to-center longitudinal spacing. In both tests the bridge rail contained and redirected the test vehicle. There were no detached elements or debris to present undue hazards to other traffic. The vehicle remained upright and relatively stable during the collision. The occupant/compartment impact velocities and 10-ms occupant ridedown accelerations were within specified limits. The test also met the safety evaluation guidelines proposed in the new AASHTO Guide Specification for Bridge Railings.