Dynamic testing of MGS W6x8.5 posts at decreased embedment.
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2012-12-01
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Edition:Final report.
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Abstract:The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the energy absorption characteristics of W6x8.5 (W152x12.6)
posts at a reduced embedment depth of 36 in. (914 mm) to that of the standard 40-in. (1,016-mm) embedded W6x8.5
(W152x12.6) posts used in the original Midwest Guardrail System (MGS). A total of eight dynamic component tests were
performed – two tests with the 40-in. (1,016-mm) embedment depth and six with a 36-in. (914-mm) embedment depth. For
two of the six 36-in. (914-mm) embedment tests, the load height was increased from 24 in. (632 mm) to 28⅞ in. (733
mm). The posts were embedded in a highly compacted, coarse, crushed limestone material. For each test, acceleration data
was used to determine the force vs. deflection and energy vs. deflection characteristics of the various post installations.
Post-soil interaction forces and energy dissipation characteristics of the steel posts with a 36-in. (914-mm) embedment
depth were compared to those for the steel post used in the original design of the MGS in both moderately and highly
compacted soil. From these comparisons, the post with a 36-in. (914-mm) embedment depth was found to provide similar
strength to that of the W6x9 (W152x13.4) steel post with a 40-in. (1,016-mm) embedment depth and installed in moderately
compacted soil. In highly compacted soil, the post with a 36-in. (914-mm) embedment depth exhibited less resistance than
the post with a 40-in. (1,016-mm) embedment depth. Therefore, the dynamic resistance of the W6x8.5 (W152x12.6) post
with a 36-in. (914-mm) embedment was determined to provide enough resistance to be used with the MGS, which may
allow a potential increase in the maximum rail mounting height of the MGS.
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