System Overview; Required Tools - Lindsay Universal TAU-II Installation Manual

® T A P E R E D S Y S T E M
U n i v e r s a l T A U - I I C r a s h C u s h i o n

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The Universal TAU-II system is designed and
constructed to provide acceptable structural
adequacy, minimal occupant risk and safe vehicle
trajectory as set forth in NCHRP 350 for redirective,
non-gating crash cushions. Refer to Figure 1 to
familiarize yourself with the basic parts and part
names of the system.
The Universal TAU-II system is designed to shield the
ends of median barriers and other fixed objects likely
to be struck head-on, by absorbing and dissipating
the kinetic energy of impacting vehicles. Universal
TAU-II systems utilize disposable Energy Absorbing
Cartridges (EACs) to absorb the kinetic energy of the
impacting vehicle. The EACs are separated by
diaphragms and held in place with a framework of
thrie-beam corrugated steel rail panels that
"telescope" rearward during head-on impacts. As the
vehicle compresses the cushion, it exerts a force on
the first bay containing an EAC. The diaphragms
distribute the impact forces uniformly to all the
remaining cartridges in each bay until the vehicle
eventually stops. The depth of penetration is
dependent upon both the original impact speed and
the mass of the impacting vehicle. Only the Energy
Absorbing Cartridges are expended after most head-
on impacts.
When hit at an angle along the side, the system is
restrained laterally by guidance cables that run the
length of the system and attach to the bottoms of the
diaphragms and terminate at the anchors at each end
of the system. The front and rear cable anchors are
attached to the foundation as described in Appendix
"C" Foundation Requirements.
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