Crash-rated bollards must meet specific ASTM testing standards to provide verified vehicle impact protection. Understanding these specifications is critical for selecting appropriate barriers that match your security requirements and site constraints.
In This Article
- Current ASTM F2656 and F3016 testing standards and certification requirements
- Legacy K-ratings and how they compare to modern ASTM ratings
- Performance rating comparison (M30/M40/M50 vs S10/S20/S30) and when each applies
- Selection criteria for matching bollard ratings to threat profiles and site conditions
- Key specification variables between manufacturers and testing protocols
Crash-Rated Bollard Technical Specifications
ASTM F2656 Requirements
ASTM F2656 is the primary standard for high-speed vehicle barrier testing, covering six vehicle classes and multiple threat scenarios for critical infrastructure protection.
| Specification | ASTM F2656 Requirements |
|---|---|
| Test Vehicle Classes | Six vehicle classes: SC (Small Car), FS (Full-size Sedan), PU (Pickup Truck), M (Medium-duty Truck), C7 (Class 7 Cabover), H (Heavy Goods Vehicle) |
| Vehicle Weights by Class | SC: 2,430 lbs, FS: 4,630 lbs, PU: 5,070 lbs, M: 15,000 lbs, C7: 15,873 lbs, H: 65,000 lbs |
| Test Speeds | Light vehicles (SC, FS, PU): 30, 40, 50, 60 mph; Heavy vehicles (M, C7, H): 30, 40, 50 mph |
| Rating Designations | M30, M40, M50; plus other class ratings |
| P1 Penetration Limit | ≤ 3.3 feet (1 meter) |
| P2 Penetration Limit | 3.3-23 feet (1-7 meters) |
| P3 Penetration Limit | 23.1-98.4 feet (7-30 meters) |
| Testing Facility | ASTM accredited only |
| Certification Validity | Valid until superseded |
ASTM F3016 Requirements
ASTM F3016 addresses low-speed vehicle impacts for pedestrian protection and storefront security applications using a standardized surrogate vehicle.
| Specification | ASTM F3016 Requirements |
|---|---|
| Test Vehicle Classes | Single class: 5,000 lbs surrogate vehicle |
| Vehicle Weights by Class | 5,000 lbs |
| Test Speeds | 10, 20, 30 mph |
| Rating Designations | S10, S20, S30 |
| P1 Penetration Limit | ≤ 1 foot (0.3 meters) |
| P2 Penetration Limit | 1-4 feet (0.3-1.22 meters) |
| P3 Penetration Limit | Not applicable |
| Testing Facility | ASTM accredited only |
| Certification Validity | Valid until superseded |
Legacy K-Ratings
The Department of State K-rating system was officially retired in 2009, though some project specifications still reference these standards.
| Specification | Legacy K-Ratings |
|---|---|
| Test Vehicle Classes | 15,000 lbs medium-duty truck |
| Vehicle Weights by Class | 15,000 lbs |
| Test Speeds | 30, 40, 50 mph |
| Rating Designations | K4, K8, K12 |
| L1 Penetration Limit | ≤ 3.3 feet (1 meter) |
| L2 Penetration Limit | 3.31–20 feet (1–6.1 meters) |
| L3 Penetration Limit | 20.1–50 feet (6.1–15.2 meters) |
| Testing Facility | DoS approved facilities |
| Certification Validity | Legacy standard retired |
Performance Rating Selection Criteria
Selecting the appropriate crash rating requires matching threat assessment, site conditions, and operational requirements to bollard capabilities.
When M30 Rating Suffices
M30 bollards are well-suited for medium-security applications where approach speeds are naturally limited by site design and traffic patterns.
Appropriate Site Conditions:
- Adjacent road speeds ≤35 mph
- Limited straight-line approach distance (<200 feet)
- Controlled access with security presence
- Buildings set back at least 3 feet from potential impact points
Common Applications:
- Office buildings and retail facilities
- Educational institutions and hospitals
- Municipal buildings and courthouses
- Data centers with controlled perimeters
When M40/M50 Ratings Required
M40 and M50-rated bollards are recommended when longer approach paths or higher adjacent road speeds increase the risk of high-impact collisions, or when protecting critical infrastructure.
| Site Condition | M30 Rating | M40 Rating | M50 Rating Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjacent Road Speed | ≤35 mph | 35-45 mph | ≥45 mph |
| Approach Distance | <200 feet | 200-500 feet | >500 feet |
| Threat Level | Moderate | High | Critical |
Selection Considerations:
- Penetration tolerance depends on the specific P-rating selected (P1, P2, or P3) rather than the impact rating alone.
- Cost varies significantly based on bollard type, operational features, and manufacturer.
- Consult manufacturer specifications and site-specific requirements for accurate selection criteria.
M40 Applications:
- Government facilities near arterial roads
- Transit stations and transportation hubs
- Corporate campuses with highway proximity
- Event venues with large vehicle access
M50 Applications:
- Military installations and defense facilities
- Embassies and diplomatic facilities
- Critical infrastructure (power plants, refineries)
- Federal buildings requiring maximum protection
When S-Ratings Apply Instead
ASTM F3016 S-ratings focus on pedestrian protection rather than high-security perimeter defense.
S10 Applications (10 mph impacts):
- Storefront protection from parking accidents
- Pedestrian walkway delineation
- Loading dock vehicle control
- Architectural accent with light security
S20 Applications (20 mph impacts):
- Parking garage entrance/exit protection
- Corporate campus pedestrian areas
- Transit station drop-off zones
- Educational institution vehicle control points
- Municipal building approach areas
- Shopping center internal roadways
S30 Applications (30 mph impacts):
- Retail center perimeter protection
- School zone vehicle barriers
- Hospital emergency entrance protection
- Mixed-use development security
Spacing and Layout Guidelines
Spacing of crash-rated bollards must match the spacing tested during certification. Even small deviations can compromise the system’s effectiveness. Always refer to the manufacturer’s certified crash test documentation and site-specific engineering plans for precise layout requirements.
Certification and Testing Protocol Requirements
Valid crash certification requires adherence to strict testing protocols conducted at accredited facilities using standardized procedures.
Required Testing Documentation
Complete Test Reports Must Include:
- High-speed photography of impact event
- Vehicle specifications and weight verification
- Impact speed measurement and verification systems
- Penetration measurement from multiple reference points
- Post-impact bollard condition assessment
Invalid Testing Indicators:
- Computer simulation only (no physical testing)
- Non-accredited facility testing
- Modified test vehicles or conditions
- Incomplete penetration measurement data
- Manufacturer self-certification claims
Specification Variables Between Manufacturers
While all certified bollards meet ASTM requirements, significant differences exist in design approach and installation methods.
Steel Construction
Steel construction and internal design can vary significantly between certified bollards. While some manufacturers use Schedule 40 or 80 pipe, others employ custom-fabricated designs or reinforced internal structures to meet ASTM crash ratings. These differences can affect installation time, material cost, and long-term maintenance needs.
Foundation System Types
Set-and-Pour Installation:
- Prefabricated bollard with integrated foundation system
- Faster installation with reduced field assembly
- Higher initial cost but lower labor requirements
Traditional Foundation:
- Field-built rebar cage with poured concrete
- Lower material cost but higher labor requirements
- Proven methodology with an extensive track record
Regardless of foundation type, installation must follow the certified design provided by the manufacturer to ensure crash rating validity.
Operational Configuration Comparison
| Configuration | Security Level | Maintenance | Cost | Operational Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Maximum | Minimal | Lowest | None |
| Removable | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Retractable | High | High | Highest | High |
Ready to specify crash-rated bollards for your project?
Proper specification requires matching ASTM ratings to site conditions, threat assessment, and operational requirements. Consider consulting with Barrier1 Systems to ensure optimal performance and compliance with current standards.
View Our Catalog
Sources
- ASTM International. “ASTM F2656/F2656M-23 Standard Test Method for Vehicle Crash Testing of Perimeter Barriers.” 2023. https://www.astm.org/f2656_f2656m-23.html
- ASTM International. “ASTM F3016/F3016M-19 Standard Test Method for Surrogate Testing of Vehicle Impact Protective Devices.” 2019. https://www.astm.org/f3016_f3016m-19.html
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Protective Design Center. “DoD Anti-Ram Vehicle Barriers List.” September 2024. https://www.nwo.usace.army.mil/Portals/23/docs/PDC/DOD_Anti-ram_Vehicle_Barriers_September_2024.pdf?ver=NpRi50sbAa4l4AeT0k6chw%3D%3D
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. “Vehicle Ramming Action Guide.” December 2024. https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/2024-12/CISA_Vehicle_Ramming_Action_Guide_20241205_508.pdf
