Unfortunately, as we’ve seen all over the world, vehicles can be used as weapons. They can also do a lot of damage by accident.
Across Australia, K-rated fencing is being specified to protect critical infrastructure, but what does that mean?
What are K ratings?
K ratings come from DoS SD-STD-02.01, an American standard released in 2003 by the Department of State. It set out three classifications, K4, K8 and K12. All three tested were done using a 15,000lbs American style vehicle. The K stands for what speed for test was performed at:
- K4 – 30mph
- K8 – 40mph
- K12 – 50mph
The only issue is DoS SD-STD-02.01 has been withdrawn and products can no longer be tested. It was replaced in 2020 with ASTM F2656.
However, with impact testing, just because a certain standard has been specified, it doesn’t mean that is the only standard that can be used. The aim is to mitigate the threat so as long as it meets the requirements of the impact performance in terms of vehicle classification, impact speed, impact angle and penetration distance, products should not be disregarded based on which standard they are tested to. This gives people access to a wider range of products. This is referenced in documents published by both CPNI (UK) and the Department for Defence (America).
For example, when you see K4 rated fencing specified, which we are frequently seeing in Australia, the client needs fencing which will stop a 15,000lbs (6,800kg/6.8tonne) vehicle traveling at 30mph (48kph). Although StronGuard RCS is tested to PAS68 it is accredited to stop a 7.5tonne vehicle at 30mph, therefore it would mitigate the threat.
In this instance the penetration isn’t specified, if it is, you must also compare and consider where the measurements are taken from as this varies across the standards.
For more information about these solutions, contact our expert team;
sales@barkersfencing.com or (07) 3554 1042