Can we compare concrete and steel crash barriers?

The crash barrier is an installation designed to minimise the impact of vehicle crashes. To ensure maximum safety, you should source them from a reputable business. For years, we have been supplying some of the highest quality safety products. So, if you find yourself in need of one, you can count on us to provide it.

Road crash barriers are vital safety installations that safeguard vehicles as well as infrastructure and passengers. They are placed strategically along roads, highways, and other transportation infrastructures. Additionally, you can use them in numerous other settings such as car parks and warehouses. They enhance road safety, manage traffic flow, and lower the danger of motors veering off the road.

These crash barriers tend to be metal or concrete. Each design has its own purpose, alongside different pros and cons. Let's have a look at them and do a quick comparison, then you will be in a better position to decide which to use.

Concrete

Let's begin with the concrete crash barrier. They're a common sight on major roads and highways. These traffic barriers are best known for their durability and strength. Concrete barriers work by supplying a solid, immovable object. It's capable of redirecting vehicles back onto the roads in collisions. Their solid construction and weight means they're capable of withstanding substantial impacts. This is without deforming or moving. As a result, they work well in high-traffic areas.

Concrete barriers are perfect for permanent installations along median dividers, bridges, and highways. Here, strong impact resistance is necessary. Once in place, they provide long-term durability and need minimal maintenance. Because of their weight and complicated installation, these barriers don't work for easily configurable or temporary applications. Furthermore, they are less flexible for positioning. You need more resources and time for installation and removal.

Steel

With steel crash barriers, they stand out for their balance of easy installation, flexibility, and strength. They operate by absorbing and then redistributing a collision's kinetic energy. The W-beam design has an impressive level of flexibility. It allows them to bend a little upon impact. What this does is lower the force transmitted to the vehicle and those inside. As a result, they are typically safer.

Steel pedestrian barriers are also a great, versatile product. They are useful in both temporary and permanent settings. You can find them along roads and at places like construction sites. Here, they work as site safety barriers.

Talk to us if you want a crash barrier

At Barrier Mart, we manufacture all our goods in house. This way, we can achieve a higher level of quality. It also ensures we can give clients some excellent prices, including healthy discounts for bulk orders.

The types of crash barrier we have include Armco and open box beam designs. We even have barrier posts available. So, if you need anything from us, please give our team a call or have a look at our website.