Base geometry influence on impact load failure of a traffic signal pole. (15th September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Min Ook; Bordelon, Amanda C.; Ramasamy, Uma; Pantelides, Chris P.
• Is Part Of: Engineering structures. Volume 123(2016:Sep. 15)
• Page Start: 482
• Page End: 489
• Publication Date: 2016-09-15
• Subjects: Traffic signal pole -- Impact loading -- Finite element method -- Simulation; Structural engineering -- Periodicals; Structural analysis (Engineering) -- Periodicals; Construction, Technique de la -- Périodiques; Génie parasismique -- Périodiques; Pression du vent -- Périodiques; Earthquake engineering; Structural engineering; Wind-pressure; Periodicals; 624.105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engstruct.2016.05.041
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0141-0296

Abstract

Highlights: Simulated bus impacting traffic signal pole in 3D finite element analysis. Simulations of varying thicknesses of pole or height of back-up ring. Failure occurs at high stress concentration at top height of inner back-up ring. Failure predicted to occur at point of impact with greater back-up ring height. Abstract: A galvanized tapered steel traffic signal pole impacted by a flat-front school bus was found not to break away at the base anchors bolts, but instead fail within the pole tube at a unique height associated with an inner back-up ring component. This failure was simulated with a 3D finite element model. The model was also used to investigate deformation and failure for various front bus shapes, pole thicknesses, and inner back-up ring heights. A higher back-up ring was found to delay failure at the point of impact, but in every case, the traffic signal pole always failed from the bus impact and associated impact load.