Real Scale Experiments on Rockfall Protection Barriers

Abstract

In the rockfall protection barriers, the role of the net is to diffuse the efforts to the braking devices which absorb the energy and slow down the velocity of the block. An innovative braking device working by the buckling of metallic tubes is developed by quasi-static and dynamic tests. Real scale experiments on the entire structure are done and presented here. These tests are performed as the recommendations of the new Guideline for European Technical Approval concerning the falling rock protection kits, named ETAG 27.

Design of a new energy dissipating device and verification for use in rockfall protection barriers

“…The literature found in which type 1 tests are performed [20] shows an open-air location, with a vertical 80 m high wall. In this location, the energy passed to the brake could reach 600 kJ with a 3-ton mass and a drop height of 20 m. In this case, in an initial development phase, high energies are not needed.…”

Energy Dissipating Devices in Falling Rock Protection Barriers

“…The brake in Figure 6d (Trad et al 2011) consists of a square profile with two plugs at the ends. The cable passes inside the profile several times fastening the plugs in their position.…”

“…The analysis of both tests can be only be done by observing the differences in the performance of the brake and the force level of the brake throughout the test. Smith et al, 1990Smith et al, 1990Trad et al, 2013 Peila et al, 1998Peila et al, 1998Trad et al, 2011 =75.72 Grassl et al, 2003Castro-Fresno et al, 2009Fulde et al, 2013…”

Design and Application of a Fiber Bragg Grating Tension Sensor for Anchor Rope

“…Rockfall protection barriers have been extensively used in civil engineering as passive countermeasures to prevent a rockfall event to reach the surrounding roads, railways, and built-up areas as discussed elsewhere [16,17]. Full-scale impact tests are very important to evaluate the behaviour of rockfall protection barriers and design procedures that still mostly rely on the results of impact rest as discussed elsewhere [18,19].…”