Developing a rubbery serpentine wall as a highway median barrier

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter SamCJ
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Barrier Median Wall
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on developing a rubbery serpentine wall as a highway median barrier, specifically addressing the tensile strength required to withstand the impact of a 4400 lb pickup traveling at 62.5 mph. The author utilizes an Excel spreadsheet to calculate the force transferred to the wall by iterating through momentum calculations at two-foot intervals. The author considers the wall's thickness, weight, and friction, and suggests that using Kinetic Energy (KE) may simplify the calculations by allowing for easier incorporation of friction forces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as momentum and kinetic energy.
  • Proficiency in using Excel for iterative calculations.
  • Knowledge of material properties, specifically tensile strength.
  • Familiarity with friction forces and their impact on structural integrity.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the calculation of tensile strength for flexible materials in impact scenarios.
  • Learn about Kinetic Energy calculations and their application in structural engineering.
  • Explore advanced Excel techniques for modeling physical systems.
  • Investigate the effects of friction on different materials in dynamic conditions.
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, material scientists, and professionals involved in highway safety design and structural impact analysis will benefit from this discussion.

SamCJ
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
I am developing a rubbery serpentine wall as a highway median barrier and I need to know the tensile strength necessary to hold against a 4400 lb pickup moving 62.5 mph. Using an excel spreadsheet and iterations, I subtract the momentum of the wall from that of the pickup at 2 foot intervals until the pickup stops, and then I examine the calculations during each two foot interval for the highest amount of force transferred to the wall. The wall has some thickness and weight, and it sits loosely on the ground, so I also factor in friction. But should I use Kinetic Energy instead of momentum to determine the highest amount of force on the wall during each two foot interval?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I would use KE, that way you can factor in the friction force to the ground a lot easier.
I would wait for an expert to help you out though.