A W-beam crash barrier is a type of safety barrier designed to prevent vehicles from leaving the roadway and crashing into hazardous obstacles such as trees, ditches, and other barriers. The W-beam crash barrier is made of steel and is designed to absorb the impact of a vehicle and redirect it back onto the road in a controlled manner.
The W-beam barrier is named for its shape, which is similar to the letter W. It consists of a series of connected W-shaped steel panels that are bolted to posts that are anchored to the ground. The panels are designed to flex and deform upon impact, which helps to absorb the energy of the vehicle and reduce the severity of the crash.
W-beam crash barriers are commonly used on highways, bridges, and other high-speed roadways to improve safety and reduce the risk of serious accidents. They are also used in parking lots, airports, and other areas where there is a risk of vehicles leaving the roadway and colliding with other obstacles.
Proper installation and maintenance of W-beam crash barriers are critical to their effectiveness. They must be installed according to specific guidelines and standards to ensure that they are able to withstand the forces of impact and remain in place during a collision. Regular inspections and maintenance are also necessary to ensure that the barriers remain in good condition and are able to perform their intended function.