Research on the Crashworthiness of Regular Centurion 2M Barrier Based on the Arbitrary Lagrange-Euler Method

Abstract

In this study, the crash-worthiness of a regular Centurion 2M barrier, which is a type of portable water-filled barrier (PWFB), is evaluated under different collision conditions. A numerical model of the regular Centurion 2M barrier, consisting of a plastic shell and water, was developed and validated. The validity of the numerical model is demonstrated by comparisons to experimental results. During the establishment of the finite element numerical model, the ALE (Arbitrary Lagrange-Euler) method was used to solve the problem of the fluid-structure interaction of the PWFB system. This model can be extended to a series of impact cases including an actual pick-up truck. Impact cases set six collision conditions according to different collision speeds and angles. The dynamic response of the collision between the pick-up truck and the PWFB process was investigated. From the analysis, we find that the greater the collision angle is, the greater the impact is on the collision result. According to the actual accident collision angle, setting the collision angle above 50° is satisfactory in most situations. In addition, a regular Centurion 2M barrier is just suitable for use on roads when the speed of vehicles is 20 km/h or less.