Evaluation of Disconnect Boxes and Signal Heads for Improved Hurricane Resistance

The objectives of this project were to quantify the maximum load requirements for disconnect boxes and signal heads and to develop test methods for product testing. Test programs for both flexure and tension were developed with the goal of producing repeatable test procedures. Tests were performed on each of the disconnect box and signal products on the FDOT-approved product list, recording maximum load and failure mode of each product. Tests were then performed using retrofit reinforcement in order to determine the strength improvement achieved using available reinforcement methods. Finally, tests were performed on a combined signal and disconnect system to evaluate behavior of individual components as compared to the system. Results did not strongly indicate that the available reinforcement provided significant strength improvement. Results also showed that the behavior of each component during individual testing was consistent with the behavior of the system as a whole. The results of testing, along with a consideration of failure modes, were used to develop recommendations for improved hurricane resistance.

• Record URL:
  https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/research/reports/fdot-bdk75-977-65-rpt.pdf
• 
• Summary URL:
  https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/research/reports/fdot-bdk75-977-65-sum.pdf
• Corporate Authors:

  University of Florida, Gainesville

  Department of Civil and Coastal Engineering
  Gainesville, FL  United States  32611-6580

  Florida Department of Transportation

  605 Suwannee Street
  Tallahassee, FL  United States  32399-0450
• Authors:
  • Cook, Ronald A
  • Masters, Forrest
  • Moon, Jaclyn
• Publication Date: 2013-5

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Edition: Final Report
• Features: Appendices; Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 83p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Cables; Hurricanes; Load tests; Signal head; Traffic signals; Wind
• Uncontrolled Terms: Disconnect box (Traffic signals); Reinforced traffic signals
• Subject Areas: Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Security and Emergencies; Vehicles and Equipment; I73: Traffic Control;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01483323
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: 00100244
• Contract Numbers: BDK75 977-65
• Files: TRIS, ATRI, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Jun 6 2013 9:29AM