Thinking about different crash barrier posts
If you are looking to improve safety by using a crash barrier or a series of them, you need to ensure you choose the right products. There are lots of options for the beams and the posts. It is vital you select suitable ones for your needs. Below we will take a quick look at the post options so you can see the differences.
Z posts
The most common type of post is a Z shape. They are perfect for lots of uses due to the light weight and low cost. However, you must keep in mind that these posts are sacrificial. What that means is that they will deform when there is an impact to the barrier. If it is particularly heavy, the collision can cause several posts to fall like a domino effect.
RSJ posts
The second option is designed to resist the impact rather than sacrificing the post. What happens here is the energy from the collision transfers either to an anchor in the floor or foundation or a shock absorber in the post itself. This means the barrier should not fall.
Spring posts
The final option is a really interesting alternative. What happens here is the steel post will first deform under an impact. However, it will then spring back to its upright position unless the collision was excessively heavy.
Which type to choose?
When you need a crash barrier it is vital you select the right type of post. If you anticipate big impacts, you may be better off with RSJ posts because they are heavy duty. However, if vehicles only travel at slow speeds you may be fine with Z or spring posts.
You also need to think about how much space you have to work with. You need more room on the opposite side of the barrier if you choose spring or Z posts; this gives them room to deform. RSJ posts are a better choice if there are spatial limitations or if the deformation would be hazardous to people in the vicinity.
It is also a good idea to think about maintenance. The good thing about crash barriers in general is you generally only need to replace the section where there has been a collision. However, you must think about potential replacement costs for posts if they suffer damage.
Come to us for a crash barrier and quality posts
Barrier Mart is one of the best companies in our industry in the UK. Our goal is to offer high quality products that will improve safety wherever they are installed. We manufacture everything in-house, ensuring we meet the highest standards with each item.
So, if you need a crash barrier, whether for a road, a car park, a warehouse, or any other setting, choose us. You can even get in touch if you are uncertain about what type of beam or post to go for. We can advise you.