What happens when a speeding vehicle collides with a steel bollard? The answer lies in the intricate science of impact testing.
Crash rated bollards are more than just heavy-duty barriers. They’re engineered solutions that can absorb and redirect immense forces, protecting people and property from potential vehicle threats. But how are these bollards tested to ensure they can withstand such extreme impacts?
From high-speed collisions to penetration measurements, the rigorous testing process involves cutting-edge physics and engineering principles. Below, we break down how impact tests are conducted and why they’re crucial in determining a bollard’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
What Are Crash Rated Bollards?
Crash rated bollards are security posts specifically engineered and tested to withstand impact from vehicles of varying weights and speeds. These bollards can absorb and dissipate the kinetic energy of a moving vehicle, effectively stopping or significantly slowing it down. Unlike standard bollards, crash rated bollards undergo thorough impact testing to ensure they meet specific performance standards.
Why Are Crash Rated Bollards Used?
Crash rated bollards are used to prevent unauthorised vehicle access and protect against traffic accidents and intentional vehicle-borne attacks. They’re commonly deployed around:
- Government buildings
- Critical infrastructure
- Pedestrian zones
- High-traffic areas
- Airports and transportation hubs
- Stadiums and event venues
These security bollards provide a physical and visual deterrent, enhancing overall site security while allowing for pedestrian movement and maintaining aesthetic appeal.
What Is Impact Testing?
Impact testing is a crucial process in developing and certifying crash-rated bollards. This scientific method involves subjecting bollards to controlled collisions with vehicles of specific weights travelling at predetermined speeds. The primary goal is to evaluate the bollard’s ability to stop or significantly slow down the vehicle, preventing it from travelling past a designated point.
How Are Crash Rated Bollards Tested?
Crash rated bollards are tested and classified according to various international standards, including:
- BSI PAS 68 and IWA 14-1 (UK and international standards)
- ASTM F2656 and F3016 (US standards)
These standards specify test methods, vehicle types, speeds, and performance criteria. During a typical crash test:
- A bollard or bollard array is installed according to manufacturer specifications.
- A test vehicle of a specified weight is propelled at a predetermined speed towards the bollard.
- High-speed cameras and sensors record the impact and its aftermath.
- The bollard’s performance is evaluated based on factors such as:
- Vehicle penetration distance
- Bollard deformation
- Fragment dispersion
- Vehicle deceleration
What Do Bollard Crash Ratings Mean?
Bollard crash ratings provide a standardised way to communicate a bollard’s performance under specific impact conditions.
PAS 68 Rating
PAS 68 provides a comprehensive standard for testing and classifying vehicle security barriers in the UK, focusing on their ability to withstand specific vehicle impacts. For example:
PAS 68 V/7500[N2]/64/90:0.0/0.0
This rating breaks down as follows:
- V – Vehicle type (in this case, N2 for a 7.5-tonne two-axle rigid truck)
- 7500 – Vehicle mass (kg)
- 64 – Impact speed (km/h)
- 90 – Impact angle (degrees)
- 0.0 – Vehicle penetration distance (m)
- 0.0 – Dispersion distance of major debris (m)
IWA 14-1 Rating
IWA 14-1 ratings use a globally standardised format to convey a bollard’s performance in stopping vehicles under specific conditions. Here’s an example:
IWA 14-1:2013 V/7200[N3C]/80/90:1.4
This breakdown explains the rating:
- V – Vehicle type (N3C refers to a 7.2-tonne three-axle truck)
- 7200 – Vehicle mass (kg)
- 80 – Impact speed (km/h)
- 90 – Impact angle (degrees)
- 1.4 – Vehicle penetration distance (m)
This rating indicates that the bollard successfully stopped a 7.2-tonne truck travelling at 80 km/h with a 90-degree impact, allowing only 1.4 metres of penetration past the barrier.
ASTM F2656 Rating
ASTM F2656 uses a straightforward classification to represent the bollard’s effectiveness in vehicle impact scenarios. Here’s an example:
ASTM F2656 M50/P1
This classification breaks down as follows:
- M50 – Vehicle impact at 80 km/h (50 mph), stopping a 6,800 kg (15,000 lb) truck
- P1 – Penetration distance of less than 1 metre (3.3 feet)
This rating shows that the bollard can stop a 6.8-tonne truck travelling at 80 km/h with minimal penetration, making it suitable for high-security installations where maximum protection is required.
Understanding these ratings helps security professionals choose the right bollards for specific threat levels and site requirements.
What Types of Crash Rated Bollards Are Available?
At Macs Bollards, we offer a comprehensive range of crash rated bollards to suit various applications, including:
- Fixed bollards – Permanently installed, these provide constant protection.
- Removable bollards – Offer flexibility for occasional vehicle access.
- Automatic bollards – Retract into the ground for controlled access.
Our bollards are available in a variety of finishes, including stainless steel bollards and bollard covers to match architectural aesthetics.
How Are Crash Rated Bollards Constructed?
Crash rated bollards are typically constructed using heavy gauge steel or reinforced concrete. Key features often include:
- Deep foundations or specialised mounting systems
- Internal reinforcement structures
- Energy-absorbing materials or designs
- Corrosion-resistant coatings or materials
The specific construction details vary based on the bollard type, crash rating, and manufacturer specifications.
What Are the Benefits of Crash Rated Bollards?
Investing in crash rated bollards offers numerous advantages:
- Enhanced security against vehicle-based threats
- Compliance with government and industry standards
- Reduced liability in the event of an incident
- Versatility in application (from traffic calming to high-security installations)
- Peace of mind for property owners and occupants
How Do You Choose the Right Crash Rated Bollard?
Selecting the appropriate crash rated bollard involves considering several factors:
- Threat assessment – Evaluate potential vehicle types and speeds
- Site constraints – Consider installation depth, utilities, and aesthetic requirements
- Operational needs – Determine if removable or automatic bollards are necessary
- Budget – Balance security requirements with cost considerations
- Compliance – Ensure bollards meet relevant standards and regulations
Our experts at Macs Bollards are happy to assist you in choosing the right security solution for your specific needs.
Why Choose Macs Bollards for Crash Rated Security Solutions?
At Macs Bollards, we offer a wide selection of crash tested bollards and vehicle security barriers designed to meet the highest safety standards, including PAS 68 and IWA 14-1. Our products are engineered to provide exceptional protection, ensuring your site remains secure against potential vehicle threats.
With UK-based manufacturing and support, we deliver high-quality solutions backed by expert guidance to help you choose the right security measures for your specific needs. Our commitment to competitive pricing and outstanding customer service makes us a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable perimeter protection.
Contact Macs Bollards Today
To learn more about our crash rated bollards or to request a quote, please contact Macs Bollards today. Email us at enquiries@macs-bollards.com or call us on 0161 320 6462. Our knowledgeable staff are standing by to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the selection process.
Macs Automated Bollard Systems Ltd specialise in the nationwide supply of automatic rising bollards. Our experts keep the Macs Bollards blog updated with all the latest bollard news!