SwRI: Barrier Crash Testing, Mechanical Sciences, Mechanical Engineering

	SwRI conducts both large-scale pendulum (shown) and full-scale vehicle impact tests, using equipment and procedures based on FHWA test requirements

Vehicle crash testing of roadside safety devices at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) includes crash cushions, median barriers, and bridge railings intended to prevent errant vehicles from impacting fixed objects. Our clients range from manufacturers and end-users of roadway safety devices (such as crash cushions, median barriers, and bridge railings) and terrorist barriers.

Many of the devices developed and tested by SwRI can be seen on our nation's and foreign nation's highways and are protecting our military bases and embassies. SwRI engineers and scientists have patented innovative designs and have authored several standards used by highway research engineers.
 

Report 350 Testing

To study the dynamic behavior of barriers, barrier components, vehicles, and highway appurtenances such as sign supports, motorist call boxes, and other breakaway devices, SwRI conducts both large-scale pendulum and full-scale vehicle impact tests, using SwRI equipment and procedures based on FHWA test requirements. Report

	SwRI conducts crash tests of roadside safety devices.

350, as adopted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), includes revised standards for full-scale crash testing of roadside safety devices, many of which must be tested for compliance with today's minivans, sport utility vehicles, and lightweight passenger sedans. The FHWA recognizes SwRI as an organization qualified to perform Report 350 tests, with qualification tests that have been accepted by the FHWA.

Barrier Testing

The current articulated barriers protecting our nation's Capitol were evaluated by SwRI using 15,000-lb. trucks with a 50-mph test speed. This criterion was developed at SwRI for the U.S. State Department in the mid 1980s in response to the bombings of the U.S. Army Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. That criterion, Certification Standard SD

	Testing of a vehicle-mounted crash cushion

STD-02.01, March 2003, "Test Method for Vehicle Crash Testing of Perimeter Barriers and Gates," is still used by the U.S. State Department to evaluate anti-terrorist barriers. The U.S. State Department recognizes SwRI as an organization qualified to perform the barrier test, according to their certification standards.

Specialized Testing

Utilizing these facilities, equipment, and experienced personnel, SwRI also performs a variety of specialized crash and impact tests. These tests have included the crash survivability of a small aircraft wing and fuel tank structure, avionic systems, battery systems for electric vehicles, and occupant protection systems. SwRI works with its clients to develop unique tests to meet their specific needs.

For more information about barrier crash testing capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Steve Gomez-Leon at sgomez-leon@swri.org or (210) 522-5253.