When to use plastic, concrete, and steel barriers?

As crash barrier experts, it is common for people to ask us about the multitude of installations out there. They need to know which products are best for particular requirements. As a result, we've produced a simple guide on the subject that can help you make the right decisions. Read on to learn more.

The three types of barriers we are going to look at are plastic, concrete, and steel. They vary massively in terms of performance and where you can use them.

Plastic barriers

Plastic water-filled barriers tend to be comprised of highly durable polyethylene. At times, it can also be reinforced with steel cables to lower vehicle penetration. They come with interlocking components to link units together. Usually, these are steel pins. Once in place, you must fill them with water. This functions as ballast so they can perform as intended.

These barriers are designed for low road-speed situations, normally around 40-50 kmh. You also use them in low traffic locales where people don't need to do work close to the carriageway. They work for shorter-term mobile urban works and arterial roadwork as well. This is because of their light weight and mobility.

Concrete barriers

With this type of crash barrier you normally have a reinforced steel structure with concrete formed around it. They link via interlocking mechanisms. However, for temporary roadworks, you often install them free-standing, depending on their heavy weight to hold them in place.

Concrete barriers work for low to medium speed roads in arterial and urbanised areas. Here, anchoring can prove tricky because of underground services close to the road surface. You can use them in medium to long-term projects with several road switches as well.

Steel barriers

Finally, we have metal barriers, including classic designs like Armco and open box beam. They tend to have interlocking mechanisms at the ends. Usually, you anchor them to the ground with posts, screw bolts, threaded rod with epoxy, or asphalt pins.

Steel barriers work for high-volume, high-speed traffic areas. Thus, they are suitable for motorways. Another situation that can use them is urban services work. In fact, any situation where low deflection is essential can use them.

Browse our crash barrier selection

At Barrier Mart, we provide several options for crash barriers. They include the Armco and open box beam designs in a variety of sizes and specifications. We have barrier posts available for purchase as well.

So, if you require a crash barrier, please let us know or browse our website to view the options. We have products you can use in various settings to ensure safety.