Development of a Socketed Foundation for the Midwest Weak Post (MWP) V1
REPORT NUMBER
TRP-03-298-14
AUTHORS
Tyler Schmidt, Scott Rosenbaugh, Ronald Faller, Dean Sicking, John Reid
PUBLICATION DATE
2014-07-23
ABSTRACT
A socketed foundation was designed and evaluated for use with the Midwest Weak Post (MWP), Version 1. Dynamic component testing was conducted on five different design configurations with varying embedment depths, steel reinforcement, and soil conditions. The low strength of the MWPs limited the force transferred into the foundations and prevented damage in the form of concrete cracking or fracture. Additionally, the lateral movements of the socketed foundations were all within the 1-in. (25-mm) limit established to ensure reuse of the foundations without resetting. The selected design consisted of a 12-in. (305-mm) diameter concrete shaft reinforced with four vertical bars and transverse hoop steel spaced at 6½ in. (165 mm) on center. A 4-in. x 3-in. x ¼-in. (102-mm x 76-mm x 6-mm) steel tube socket was placed in the middle of the shaft. Finally, guidelines were given for the length, or embedment depth, of the foundation based on surrounding soil conditions and risk of frost heave.
KEYWORDS
Highway Safety, Crash Test, Roadside Appurtenances, Compliance Test, MASH, Bogie, Cable Barrier Posts, Socketed Foundation, Midwest Weak Post, MWP