ABSORB-M Crash Cushion
The ABSORB-M is a non-redirective, gating, freestanding crash cushion designed to shield the blunt end of temporary barriers. Featuring water filled elements and tension straps to absorb vehicle impact energy, the ABSORB-M does not require ground anchors making it the preferred crash cushion solution for workzones where the unit can be rapidly deployed, relocated and retrieved.
Product Features
MASH TL3 Compliant
Rapid Deployment
Compatibility
Can be connected to various concrete and steel workzone barriers.
Modular Design
Available as a TL3 or TL2 compliant crash cushion.
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Related Products
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the ABSORB-M crash cushion work?
The ABSORB-M is a gating, non-redirective crash cushion designed to shield the blunt ends of workzone barriers. The ABSORB-M features water filled cartridges designed to absorb vehicle impact energy during end-on collisions.
What is a non-redirective, gating crash cushion?
A non-redirective, gating crash cushion is designed to stop or decelerates a vehicle that strikes the nose head-on, usually through controlled crushing. It does not provide lateral redirection of the vehicle during side-on impacts and therefore requires a clear recovery area behind the system.
What crash testing has been performed with the ABSORB-M?
The ABSORB-M has been crash tested in accordance with Test Level 3 (TL3) and Test Level 2 (TL2) of the Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH).
What are the available installation configurations for the ABSORB-M crash cushion?
The MASH TL2 ABSORB-M is a two-element system measuring just 4.46 m. The MASH TL3 ABSORB-M is a three-element system measuring just 6.39 m.
What are the speed restrictions for the deployment of the ABSORB-M crash cushion?
For Australian conditions, the ABSORB-M is speed restricted as follows:
- TL2 configuration – speed restricted to 60 km/h on anchored steel barrier systems.
- TL3 configuration – speed restricted to 80 km/h.
What is the mass of the ABSORB-M crash cushion?
The MASH TL2 ABSORB-M weighs 400 kg empty and 2292 kg when filled with water. The MASH TL3 ABSORB-M weighs 493 kg empty and 3331 kg when filled with water.
How does the ABSORB-M connect to a downstream barrier?
The universal transition can connect the ABSORB-M to concrete and steel workzone barriers up to 1070 mm high.
Can the ABSORB-M crash cushion be transport when filled with water?
Yes, the system is rigid enough to be repositioned when filled with water by lifting each element from the integrated forklift ports.
What pavement conditions are suitable for the installation of the ABSORB-M crash cushion?
The ABSORB-M system is designed to perform on a variety of foundations including concrete, asphalt, and any other surfaces capable of bearing the weight of the system. Uneven surfaces should be flattened, and large debris removed from the foundation prior to installation.
What is the recommended procedure for draining the system?
To transport empty elements, drain the water from the element by removing the plug from the drain port. Allow approximately five minutes for the element to drain completely. Crack the fill ports partially to improve drain flow.
