What is the standard thickness of the W-beam rail element?

The minimum thickness for the W-beam sheet is 3.00 mm as per Clause 5.1.1.

What is the minimum zinc coating required for galvanizing?

A minimum mass of 550 g/m² of zinc coating is required by the hot-dip galvanizing process, as specified in Clause 7.1.

What are the material strength requirements for the steel?

The steel (Grade A) must have a minimum yield strength of 240 MPa and a tensile strength of 320-400 MPa, according to Table 1.

What is the standard length of one W-beam section?

The overall length is specified as 4318 mm, which provides an effective installed length of 3810 mm (Figure 1).

IS 12699

: 1989

Metal Beam Crash Barriers for Highways - W-Beam - Specification

CurrentFrequently UsedSpecificationBIMTransportation · Fencing, Gates and Barriers

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This standard specifies the material, dimensions, fabrication, and finishing requirements for steel W-Beam type crash barriers used on highways. It covers the main W-beam rail, posts, spacers, and fasteners to ensure quality and interchangeability for roadside safety applications.

Specifies requirements for W-beam type metal crash barriers used on highways.

Quick Reference Values

Minimum W-Beam Sheet Thickness3.00 mm

Minimum Post Sheet Thickness5.00 mm

Minimum Mass of Zinc Coating550 g/m²

Minimum Yield Strength (Grade A)240 MPa

Overall W-Beam Length4318 mm

Effective W-Beam Length3810 mm

Practical Notes

This standard is heavily influenced by AASHTO M180. For comprehensive installation and design guidelines, engineers often refer to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) specifications.

The referenced material standard IS 226 is obsolete. The current equivalent is IS 2062, and Grade E250 is commonly used.

The galvanizing requirements in Clause 7 are critical for the long-term durability and performance of the barrier. Inadequate coating thickness is a common cause of premature failure.