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Research article
First published January 1996

Finite-Element Modeling of G2 Guardrail

Bart F. Hendricks and Jerry W. WekezerView all authors and affiliations
Volume 1528, Issue 1
https://doi.org/10.1177/0361198196152800114

Abstract

A finite-element model of the AASHTO G2 guardrail (weak-post W-beam) was developed and analyzed under vehicle impact conditions by using LLNL-DYNA3D, a nonlinear, explicit, three-dimensional, public-domain, finite-element code. The modeling procedures and problems encountered are described, and suggestions for further research are given. W-beam and S3 × 5.7 steel post mesh optimization procedures and results are described. A suitable point of fixity for the posts to account for soil effects is determined. W-beam-to-post connections were investigated by three different methods. Impact influence lengths and problems associated with modeling flexible barriers are discussed. The steps taken to assemble a model, including a prebuilt vehicle model, are given. The G2 guardrail was struck with the 820C vehicle model, developed by FHWA, at a speed of 26.69 m/sec (59.7 mph) and an angle of 15.4 degrees.

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References

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Published In

Volume 1528, Issue 1
Pages: 130 - 137
Article first published: January 1996
Issue published: January 1996

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© 1996 National Academy of Sciences.
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Authors

Affiliations

Bart F. Hendricks
Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Florida A&M University-Florida State University, 2615 Royal Oaks Drive, Tallahassee, Fla. 32308.
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Jerry W. Wekezer
Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Florida A&M University-Florida State University, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, Fla. 32310.
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Notes

Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of FHWA.

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