Guardrails are there to keep us safe, by preventing vehicles from running off the road or into oncoming traffic. Two of the most popular guardrails are W-beam and Thrie-beam. There are W-beam guardrails and Thrie-beam guardrails, each having its very own set of advantages and uses Today we will introduce you the differences between these two types of guardrails, provide a comparison of their features and help to select the right one for your project. The definition size for W beam covers height and weight.
Major Differences in W-Beam and Thrie Beam Guardrail Systems
Basically, W-Beam and Thrie Beam are two types of guardrails. W-Beam guardrails derive their name from the W-shape design, which are instantly recognisable as a simple and efficient way to protect vehicles. They are in general use on streets, bridges or rural roads to control low speed traffic. Thrie-Beam guardrails, in contrast have a modified shape while featuring additional corrugations to provide more strength and resistance to damage. Thrie-Beam guardrails can be installed on highways, high speed roads and high traffic areas.
W-Beam vs. Thrie-Beam Guardrails
W-Beam guardrails are more flexible and easier to install than MELT, it can handle a wide variety of roads. Their simple installation and low maintenance requirements make them the product of choice for numerous applications. In contrast, Thrie-Beam highway guardrail are typically stronger and are meant to offer better protection for vehicle occupants. They might cost a little more, but they are must-have for high freeways and traffic intersections.
W-Beam versus Thrie-Beam Guardrails
If you are trying to choose the right type of highway guardrail, it is important that you will benefit from an understanding of your project’s needs. W-Beam guardrails can be used in lower speed zones where a lighter type of barrier is required and Thrie-Beam highway safety guardrail are commonly seen on high speed highways and locations such as freeways. Understanding the two separate guardrail solutions will help you to choose the option that is right for keeping drivers and passengers safe on your roads.
How to Select the Appropriate Guardrail for your Project?
There is the need to evaluate road or highway specific condition when choosing a guardrail system for your project. Use the speed limit, how busy traffic is and other hazards to see what type of guard rail works best. Sourcing from a professional traffic facilities manufacturer, such as XZL ROADSAFETY allows you select the most ideal guardrail system and components according to your specific requirements.
W-Beam and Thrie-Beam Guardrails Compared
W-beam and thrie-beam guardrails have own merits individually and both of them are designed for different road conditions. W-Beam freeway guardrail are an economical choice for partial protection, light use roads, while Thrie-Beam guardrails protect higher speed highways and busy interchanges. Once you have a better sense of the distinctions between active and passive guardrails, consult with industry professionals to determine which would be best for keeping the roadways as safe and secure as possible. XZL ROADSAFETY, as a professional guardrail manufacturer, has the ability to implement superior guardrail for your projects.