ASTM F3455/F3455M-22
(Practice)Standard Practice for Establishing the Minimum- and Maximum-Width Configurations for Crash Testing of Exceptionally Long Variable-Width Vehicle Barriers
Standard Practice for Establishing the Minimum- and Maximum-Width Configurations for Crash Testing of Exceptionally Long Variable-Width Vehicle Barriers
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Test Method F2656/F2656M states that variable-width barriers shall be tested in minimum- and maximum-width configurations. Interpolations between maximum and minimums are allowed if there are no structural modifications made to the barrier (that is, all structural components, including spacing of support members and connections, are similar between the two barriers tested at minimum and maximum widths). Extrapolation outside of the tested minimum- and maximum-width configurations is not allowed.
5.2 However, there is a class of barriers such as some nets and fences that rely on a structurally repetitive interior system and strengthened end terminals or anchorages that are not explicitly treated under Test Method F2656/F2656M. There are situations where the interior system of the barrier could be exceptionally long and it is impractical or impossible to test the maximum-width configuration due to test facility site constraints, as an example.
5.3 When a variable-width barrier is dependent on a structurally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strengthened end terminals, this practice shall be used to establish the maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier.
5.4 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Knowing the condition designation and penetration rating provides the ability to select an appropriate barrier for site-specific conditions around a facility.
5.5 Use of this practice assumes:
5.5.1 Except for the instrumented end terminations, the structurally repetitive interior system is constructed and installed in a manner that represents the proposed actual service installation;
5.5.2 Except for the instrumented end terminations, the structurally repetitive interior system conforms to supplier specifications and drawings;
5.5.3 The actual service i...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice provides a procedure for applying Test Method F2656/F2656M test criteria to an exceptionally long (that is, 300 ft [91 m] or greater) variable-width vehicle barrier as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M.
1.2 This practice provides a procedure to establish a maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier for a variable-width barrier as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M.
1.3 This practice applies only to variable-width barriers that are dependent on both a structurally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strengthened end terminals.
1.4 This practice applies only when it is impractical or impossible to install the maximum-width test article of a variable-width barrier because the test facility site constraints limit the practical length of the test article.
1.5 This practice does not apply when its use is employed solely with the intent of reducing the test article installation cost when it is practical to test the maximum-width installation length.
1.6 This practice does not apply to continuous or other types of vehicle barriers.
1.7 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Further, the complete variable-width barrier shall receive a single penetration rating that is determined as the maximum penetration rating for both the minimum- and maximum-width configurations tested, and is taken to be the final penetration rating. The penetration rating is not based on engineering calculation or judgment.
1.8 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the t...
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Dec-2021
- Technical Committee
- F12 - Security Systems and Equipment
- Drafting Committee
- F12.10 - Systems Products and Services
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2015
Overview
ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 specifies a standard practice for establishing the minimum- and maximum-width configurations for crash testing of exceptionally long, variable-width vehicle barriers. Developed by ASTM International, this document supports the consistent evaluation of vehicle security barriers where it is impractical or impossible to test the maximum-width installation due to site constraints, specifically for barriers featuring structurally repetitive systems terminated with strengthened end terminals. Adherence to this standard helps ensure the reliability, safety, and security performance of such barriers in real-world conditions, contributing to effective perimeter protection at sensitive or high-risk locations.
Key Topics
- Variable-Width Vehicle Barriers: The standard focuses on barriers, such as nets and modular fences, that are designed to vary in width and are extended to exceptionally long installations (typically 300 ft [91 m] or greater), relying on a repetitive interior system.
- Crash Testing Configurations: It establishes procedures for crash testing barriers at both minimum and maximum possible widths, as defined by Test Method ASTM F2656/F2656M, to simulate their performance across the full range of field conditions.
- Equivalency to Infinitely Long Barriers: In cases where physical testing of the maximum width is impractical, the standard guides users to simulate a maximum-width configuration equivalent to an infinitely long barrier using load measurement techniques.
- Condition Designation and Penetration Rating: The practice requires testing and rating systems in both minimum and maximum configurations, ensuring that penetration performance is accurately reflected for various installations.
- Installation Representativeness: All tests must use installation methods and structural components identical to the proposed security deployment, except for specially instrumented end terminations used for measurement.
- Testing Limitations: The practice is not to be used to reduce test costs when practical installation and testing of the maximum width is feasible, and it is not applicable to continuous or other non-variable barrier types.
Applications
ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 is especially valuable in the following cases:
- Vehicle Security Barriers at Large Facilities: When deploying anti-ram barriers, such as cable fences and nets, around airports, government buildings, military bases, or other critical infrastructure that may require unusually long or custom-fit protection from hostile vehicular threats.
- Crash Test Evaluation: Ensures that both minimum and maximum system configurations have been robustly tested and rated, supporting informed decision-making for designers, security teams, and facility managers.
- Site-Specific Barrier Selection: By providing clear criteria for condition designation and penetration rating, the practice helps end-users select barrier systems tailored to the unique requirements and constraints of their facilities.
- Compliance and Standardization: For barrier manufacturers and installers, meeting the requirements of this ASTM standard provides assurance to clients regarding the tested crash performance and compliance with international safety expectations.
Related Standards
For complete and compliant crash testing and certification of vehicle barriers, consider referencing the following ASTM standards:
- ASTM F2656/F2656M - Test Method for Crash Testing of Vehicle Security Barriers. This key document specifies the base crash testing procedures referenced throughout ASTM F3455/F3455M-22.
- Other related ASTM F12 Committee standards on security systems and equipment that address various types of barriers, operational procedures, and perimeter protection.
Implementing ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 ensures that exceptionally long, variable-width vehicle barriers are tested according to consistent, internationally recognized procedures. This enables security professionals to accurately assess barrier effectiveness, comply with relevant regulations, and enhance protection of critical infrastructure from vehicle-related threats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Establishing the Minimum- and Maximum-Width Configurations for Crash Testing of Exceptionally Long Variable-Width Vehicle Barriers". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Test Method F2656/F2656M states that variable-width barriers shall be tested in minimum- and maximum-width configurations. Interpolations between maximum and minimums are allowed if there are no structural modifications made to the barrier (that is, all structural components, including spacing of support members and connections, are similar between the two barriers tested at minimum and maximum widths). Extrapolation outside of the tested minimum- and maximum-width configurations is not allowed. 5.2 However, there is a class of barriers such as some nets and fences that rely on a structurally repetitive interior system and strengthened end terminals or anchorages that are not explicitly treated under Test Method F2656/F2656M. There are situations where the interior system of the barrier could be exceptionally long and it is impractical or impossible to test the maximum-width configuration due to test facility site constraints, as an example. 5.3 When a variable-width barrier is dependent on a structurally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strengthened end terminals, this practice shall be used to establish the maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier. 5.4 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Knowing the condition designation and penetration rating provides the ability to select an appropriate barrier for site-specific conditions around a facility. 5.5 Use of this practice assumes: 5.5.1 Except for the instrumented end terminations, the structurally repetitive interior system is constructed and installed in a manner that represents the proposed actual service installation; 5.5.2 Except for the instrumented end terminations, the structurally repetitive interior system conforms to supplier specifications and drawings; 5.5.3 The actual service i... SCOPE 1.1 This practice provides a procedure for applying Test Method F2656/F2656M test criteria to an exceptionally long (that is, 300 ft [91 m] or greater) variable-width vehicle barrier as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M. 1.2 This practice provides a procedure to establish a maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier for a variable-width barrier as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M. 1.3 This practice applies only to variable-width barriers that are dependent on both a structurally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strengthened end terminals. 1.4 This practice applies only when it is impractical or impossible to install the maximum-width test article of a variable-width barrier because the test facility site constraints limit the practical length of the test article. 1.5 This practice does not apply when its use is employed solely with the intent of reducing the test article installation cost when it is practical to test the maximum-width installation length. 1.6 This practice does not apply to continuous or other types of vehicle barriers. 1.7 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Further, the complete variable-width barrier shall receive a single penetration rating that is determined as the maximum penetration rating for both the minimum- and maximum-width configurations tested, and is taken to be the final penetration rating. The penetration rating is not based on engineering calculation or judgment. 1.8 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the t...
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Test Method F2656/F2656M states that variable-width barriers shall be tested in minimum- and maximum-width configurations. Interpolations between maximum and minimums are allowed if there are no structural modifications made to the barrier (that is, all structural components, including spacing of support members and connections, are similar between the two barriers tested at minimum and maximum widths). Extrapolation outside of the tested minimum- and maximum-width configurations is not allowed. 5.2 However, there is a class of barriers such as some nets and fences that rely on a structurally repetitive interior system and strengthened end terminals or anchorages that are not explicitly treated under Test Method F2656/F2656M. There are situations where the interior system of the barrier could be exceptionally long and it is impractical or impossible to test the maximum-width configuration due to test facility site constraints, as an example. 5.3 When a variable-width barrier is dependent on a structurally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strengthened end terminals, this practice shall be used to establish the maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier. 5.4 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Knowing the condition designation and penetration rating provides the ability to select an appropriate barrier for site-specific conditions around a facility. 5.5 Use of this practice assumes: 5.5.1 Except for the instrumented end terminations, the structurally repetitive interior system is constructed and installed in a manner that represents the proposed actual service installation; 5.5.2 Except for the instrumented end terminations, the structurally repetitive interior system conforms to supplier specifications and drawings; 5.5.3 The actual service i... SCOPE 1.1 This practice provides a procedure for applying Test Method F2656/F2656M test criteria to an exceptionally long (that is, 300 ft [91 m] or greater) variable-width vehicle barrier as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M. 1.2 This practice provides a procedure to establish a maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier for a variable-width barrier as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M. 1.3 This practice applies only to variable-width barriers that are dependent on both a structurally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strengthened end terminals. 1.4 This practice applies only when it is impractical or impossible to install the maximum-width test article of a variable-width barrier because the test facility site constraints limit the practical length of the test article. 1.5 This practice does not apply when its use is employed solely with the intent of reducing the test article installation cost when it is practical to test the maximum-width installation length. 1.6 This practice does not apply to continuous or other types of vehicle barriers. 1.7 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Further, the complete variable-width barrier shall receive a single penetration rating that is determined as the maximum penetration rating for both the minimum- and maximum-width configurations tested, and is taken to be the final penetration rating. The penetration rating is not based on engineering calculation or judgment. 1.8 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the t...
ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 43.040.80 - Crash protection and restraint systems. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM F2656/F2656M-23, ASTM F2656/F2656M-20, ASTM F2656/F2656M-18a, ASTM F2656/F2656M-18, ASTM F2656/F2656M-15. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM F3455/F3455M-22 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:F3455/F3455M −22
Standard Practice for
Establishing the Minimum- and Maximum-Width
Configurations for Crash Testing of Exceptionally Long
Variable-Width Vehicle Barriers
ThisstandardisissuedunderthefixeddesignationF3455/F3455M;thenumberimmediatelyfollowingthedesignationindicatestheyear
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.8 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
1.1 This practice provides a procedure for applying Test
each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to
Method F2656/F2656M test criteria to an exceptionally long
ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be
(that is, 300 ft [91 m] or greater) variable-width vehicle barrier
used independently of the other, and values from the two
as defined by Test Method F2656/F2656M.
systems shall not be combined.
1.2 This practice provides a procedure to establish a
1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the
maximum-width configuration that is equivalent to an infi-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
nitely long barrier for a variable-width barrier as defined by
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Test Method F2656/F2656M.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
1.3 This practice applies only to variable-width barriers that mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
are dependent on both a structurally repetitive interior system 1.10 This international standard was developed in accor-
that could be exceptionally long and terminated with strength- dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ened end terminals. ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.4 This practice applies only when it is impractical or
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
impossible to install the maximum-width test article of a
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
variable-width barrier because the test facility site constraints
limit the practical length of the test article.
2. Referenced Documents
1.5 This practice does not apply when its use is employed
2.1 ASTM Standards:
solely with the intent of reducing the test article installation
F2656/F2656M Test Method for Crash Testing of Vehicle
cost when it is practical to test the maximum-width installation
Security Barriers
length.
3. Terminology
1.6 Thispracticedoesnotapplytocontinuousorothertypes
3.1 Definitions:
of vehicle barriers.
3.1.1 barrier, n—gate, bollard, wedges, drop arms, walls,
1.7 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/
wire ropes, net, planter, other structure, or topographical
F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration
feature (that is, berms, rocks, or trenches) that provides
rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Further, the
protection against a vehicle trying to gain access overtly or
complete variable-width barrier shall receive a single penetra-
inadvertently to a compound or facility.
tion rating that is determined as the maximum penetration
3.1.2 condition designation, n—relates vehicle type and
rating for both the minimum- and maximum-width configura-
vehicle velocity to the kinetic energy for which testing is
tions tested, and is taken to be the final penetration rating. The
conducted.
penetration rating is not based on engineering calculation or
3.1.3 continuous barrier, n—any barrier that relies on a
judgment.
continuous foundation or a continuous structural element to
resist penetration by vehicles.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F12 on Security
Systems and Equipment and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F12.10 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Systems Products and Services. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2022. Published January 2022. DOI: 10.1520/ Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
F3455_F3455M-22. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F3455/F3455M−22
3.1.4 penetration rating, n—rating achieved by a barrier penetration rating. The penetration rating does not require
based on maximum dynamic penetration distance for a given engineering calculations, judgment, etc. Rather, the complete
condition designation. variable-width vehicle barrier is defined using the largest
penetration rating (that is, if the maximum-width configuration
3.1.5 rated-ASTM barrier, n—vehicle security barrier tested
achieves a P2 Penetration Rating and the minimum-width
in accordance with this practice and Test Method F2656/
configuration achieves a P1 Penetration Rating, the complete
F2656M by an accredited facility that achieves a given
system is rated as P2).
condition designation and penetration rating based on the
distance travelled after impact.
5. Significance and Use
3.1.6 variable width barrier, n—perimeter security devices
5.1 Test Method F2656/F2656M states that variable-width
such as gates, nets, wedges, and modular units that will likely
barriers shall be tested in minimum- and maximum-width
bedeployedwithdifferentfunctionalwidths,asdefinedbyTest
configurations. Interpolations between maximum and mini-
Method F2656/F2656M.
mums are allowed if there are no structural modifications made
3.1.6.1 exceptionally long variable-width barrier, n—a
to the barrier (that is, all structural components, including
variable-width barrier whose maximum-width could be 300 ft
spacing of support members and connections, are similar
orgreaterandwhichconsistsofastructurallyrepetitiveinterior
between the two barriers tested at minimum and maximum
system that is terminated with strengthened end terminals;
widths). Extrapolation outside of the tested minimum- and
these barriers include cable fences or post-and-beam type
maximum-width configurations is not allowed.
systems.
5.2 However, there is a class of barriers such as some nets
4. Summary of Practice
and fences that rely on a structurally repetitive interior system
and strengthened end terminals or anchorages that are not
4.1 The procedure specified in this practice applies to
explicitlytreatedunderTestMethodF2656/F2656M.Thereare
variable-width barriers that are dependent on both a structur-
situations where the interior system of the barrier could be
allyrepetitiveinteriorsystemandterminatedwithstrengthened
exceptionallylonganditisimpracticalorimpossibletotestthe
end terminals, as described herein. The procedures presented
maximum-width configuration due to test facility site
herein establish the maximum-width configuration that is
constraints, as an example.
equivalent to an effective, infinitely long barrier.
5.3 When a variable-width barrier is dependent on a struc-
4.2 The minimum-width configuration is established in
turally repetitive interior system that could be exceptionally
accordance with procedures presented in Test Method F2656/
long and terminated with strengthened end terminals, this
F2656M.
practice shall be used to establish the maximum-width con-
4.3 The maximum-width configuration for the variable-
figuration that is equivalent to an infinitely long barrier.
width barrier is established using instrumented end terminals
5.4 This practice shall be used with Test Method F2656/
and the required number of interior repeating systems so that
F2656M to establish a condition designation and penetration
zero shear, torsion, and moment and negligible axial load are
rating for the complete variable-width barrier. Knowing the
transferredtotheextremeload-carryingelementsintheinterior
condition designation and penetration rating provides the
system.
ability to select an appropriate barrier for site-specific condi-
4.4 Physical connections or mechanisms are used to ensure
tions around a facility.
zero shear, torsion, and moment are transferred between the
5.5 Use of this practice assumes:
interior syst
...
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