Dynamic strength of a modified W-beam BCT trailing-end termination system

W-beam systems utilise end-terminal anchorages to develop tension upstream and downstream of an impact event. However, the capacities of the anchorage components under impact loading are not well known. One such W-beam end-anchorage system, the Midwest guardrail system (MGS) trailing-end anchorage, was evaluated using three dynamic component tests – a soil foundation tube pull test, a breakaway cable terminal (BCT) post splitting test, and an MGS end-anchorage system pull test. The peak load recorded during a soil foundation tube test was 193 kN at 56 mm deflection, as measured at the ground line. BCT posts split at loads of 17.8 and 32.9 kN. The end-anchorage tensile capacity was 156 kN, dissipating 64.7 kJ. Results from the component tests were also used to create and validate nonlinear finite element models of the components in order to be used for future design and analysis of end anchorages.