Investigation of the Suitability of Great Lake States Timber Species for Guardrail Posts

摘要

The American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials (AASHTO) allows only two species of wood for use in constructing strong post guardrail systems, Douglas Fir and Southern Yellow Pine. Neither of these species are readily available in the great lakes region of the United States. The report examines twelve species of wood that are available in the great lakes region for use as guardrail posts. Pendulum testing was performed on all species in addition to several full-scale crash tests (NCHRP 230). As a result of the work it is suggested that a total of seven new species be added to the AASHTO specification.