Types of Guardrails
Guardrails are essential for roadside safety as they slow down vehicles and prevent them from tipping over the side of the road. Guardrails are an integral part of various industrial structures and are used on highways as protective barriers against vehicle impacts, to prevent falls, or in production areas. Both single and double railing systems are standard guardrail installation options.
Now let's explain the four types of guardrails in details.
W-beam Guardrail
One of the most common types of guardrails, W-beam guardrails are made of steel and are usually weather-resistant by galvanizing. They are popular because they can be installed with relative ease in most environments, including highways, bridges, etc. The rails themselves can also be attached to the posts. The "W" in the name describes the rail shape, which resembles a letter turned sideways.
Thrie-beam Guardrail
The railing of this type of guardrail has a "V" ridge more than the W-shaped steel guardrail. Since this guardrail is significantly wider, it has greater strength. It can successfully deflect heavier vehicles with a high center of gravity. Like other beam guardrails, triple beam guardrails are made of treated steel to withstand outdoor conditions.
Embedded Guardrail
Recessed rails have brackets that allow the post sections to slide into the structure when installed. This type of railing is easily accessible.
Bolt-on Guardrail
Bolt-on rails involve specific installation with hand tools and drills, but the hardware for these rails is usually supplied by the manufacturer. Choose from single, dual or triple rails for your application.
Factors When Choosing Guardrails
• OSHA compliance and regulations. A number of different regulations apply to worksite fall protection. It's important to keep these guidelines in mind, or risk being non-compliant with safety regulations, which can carry a hefty fine.
• Removable and permanent guardrails. Permanent guardrails can be more stable, secure, and durable. However, they're also more expensive and take longer to install, and you’ll lose the ability to reuse the equipment without serious alterations.
• Easy to install. The easy installation can be helpful to have the flexibility of fall protection when and where you want it. Many guardrail systems are portable and can be dismantled and re-assembled as the need arises, providing greater mobility.
• Flexibility and versatility of guardrails. The permanent guardrail system is less versatile, and hard to configure to your site's specific dimensions and needs.
• Durability. Even the most short-term construction safety equipment needs to stand up to the wear-and-tear of heavy daily use and resist weather-related degradation. Learn more
Application of Guardrail
Guardrails are safety barriers that are designed to protect vehicles and pedestrians from potential hazards, such as steep drops or oncoming traffic. They are commonly used on roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure. Guardrails are typically made of metal or concrete and are anchored to the ground to provide a sturdy barrier. They can also be used in industrial settings, such as around construction sites or machinery, to protect workers from potential hazards. Guardrails are also commonly used in parks, hiking trails and other recreational areas to protect visitors from steep drops or other hazards. Learn more applications
Dachu Traffic Facilities has rich experience in manufacturing and suppling of various high quality guardrails to meet various application and special requirements. If you're looking for guardrails and guardrail replacemeng accessories for your construction projects, please feel free to contact us to get more ideas of types of guardrails and acquire free quotation of guardrail of W-beam guardrail and Thrie beam guardrail.