RHINO-STOP® Elite Guardrail FAQs

How does RhinoStop® Elite work?

All RhinoStop® barriers incorporate a unique patented yielding base plate that minimises the peak loads transferred to the post anchors. The yielding behaviour of the base plate absorbs vehicle impact energy and prevents damage to the concrete substrate.

What Standards were referenced to evaluate RhinoStop® Elite?

RhinoStop® Elite has been crash tested to validate compliance with the 40kN (Type G) and 30kN (Type F) vehicle impact loads described in AS/NZS 1170.1, Clause 3.8.

What crash tests were performed with RhinoStop® Elite?

Crash testing was performed with the RhinoStop® Elite system positioned on the edge of a 150mm thick, suspended concrete slab.

A 2000kg pick-up truck travelling at 20km/h was impacted on two (2) panels supported by three (3) posts. The height of impact was 1m above ground level.

A 1500kg passenger car travelling at 15km/h was impacted on one (1) panel supported by two (2) posts. The height of impact was 0.5m above ground level.

What are the benefits of Safe Direction’s crash test evaluation?

Safe Direction’s crash test evaluation is designed to represent the worst, or most critical, impact conditions when evaluating RhinoStop® Elite:

  • The posts are installed on the edge of 150mm thick, suspended concrete slab, thoroughly evaluating the potential for concrete edge failure and the suitability of the anchor embedment depth.
  • Vehicle impacts are performed at up to twice the speed nominated by AS/NZS 1170.1.
  • Short-length barrier systems, designed to distribute the impact load on fewer posts and produce the largest system deflection.

What are the other design features of RhinoStop® Elite?

The open construction of RhinoStop® Elite facilitates high cross flow ventilation and daylight infiltration.

What is the spacing between balusters?

The spacing between RHINO-STOP® Elite balusters is 102mm, observing the Building Code of Australia requirements that a balustrade system should not allow a 125mm sphere to pass through any opening.

What is the minimum number of posts required for a RhinoStop® Elite installation?

A minimum three (3) posts are required per installation when compliance to the 40kN vehicle impact load (Type G) described in AS/NZS 1170.1, Clause 3.8 is required.

A minimum two (2) posts are required per installation when compliance to the 30kN vehicle impact load (Type F) described in AS/NZS 1170.1, Clause 3.8 is required.

What is the spacing between posts?

The spacing between the posts shall not exceed 2.3m.

How is RhinoStop® Elite manufactured?

RhinoStop® Elite features an all-steel construction and is hot dip galvanised providing a durable finish.