Report Result

TRP-03-426-20

Karla Lechtenberg (Polivka), Jaryd Flores, Ronald Faller, Erin Urbank

PUBLICATION DATE

2020-12-16

ABSTRACT

The objective of this research was to evaluate the dual-post, U-channel sign support system according to the Test Level 3 (TL-3) safety performance evaluation criteria of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ (AASHTO) Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH). In test no. MOS-5, a 5,026-lb (2,280-kg) pickup truck impacted the dual-post, U-channel sign support at 62.7 mph (100.9 km/h) and an angle of 0 degrees. In test no. MOS-6, a 2,420-lb (1,098-kg) small car impacted the dual-post, U-channel sign support at 63.3 mph (101.9 km/h) and an angle of 0 degrees. In test no. MOS-7, a 2,435-lb (1,104-kg) small car impacted the dual-post, U-channel sign support at 20.0 mph (32.2 km/h) and an angle of 0 degrees. In all three tests, the impact was head-on to the vehicle, with the vehicle and system centerlines aligned. All three tests were determined to be successful according to MASH 2016 criteria. None of the systems showed potential for penetrating the occupant compartment. Minimal occupant compartment deformation occurred in all three tests. In each test, the system readily activated in a predictable manner and allowed the vehicle to continue travelling without any major obstruction of the windshield. Therefore, the dual-post, U-channel sign support system met all the TL-3 safety performance criteria of MASH 2016.

KEYWORDS

Highway Safety, Crash Test, Roadside Appurtenances, Compliance Test, MASH 2016, U-Channel Sign Supports, Dual Support, Test Level 3, TL-3

REPORT

TRP-03-426-20.pdf