ASTM F2656/F2656M-20 PDF Download

The ASTM F2656/F2656M-20 standard provides a structured procedure for assessing the penetration rating of vehicle perimeter barriers when subjected to a vehicle impact. The purpose of this test method is to help select an appropriate barrier for specific site conditions around a facility.

It is important to note that the penetration rating obtained from this test method does not guarantee that a barrier will perform as rated in all conditions, approach routes, and topography. This test method requires single-specimen tests at a specified impact location, which means that not all points of impact can be tested and validated for the penetration rating. Different impact locations may result in varying barrier responses.

The test method offers a range of vehicle impact conditions, designations, and penetration performance levels, allowing agencies to select passive perimeter barriers and active entry point barriers that are suitable for use in facilities facing a defined moving vehicle threat. Compliance with these test procedures establishes a measure of performance but does not make a vehicle perimeter barrier invulnerable to vehicle penetration. Therefore, caution should be exercised in interpreting test findings and applying the results to other conditions.

The standard emphasizes that while computer simulations are valuable in developing and improving barriers or estimating performance under different conditions, the analytical models and methods used in simulations must be validated against physical test data. Additionally, specific user site conditions, such as local terrain features, soil conditions, or climate, may require special consideration. If these conditions are expected to impact a barrier's performance, the agency should require full-scale crash testing or numerical simulations that explicitly represent the user site conditions.

It is important to understand that compliance with the test procedures and obtaining certification under this standard only demonstrates the barrier's ability to withstand the impact of a test vehicle. It does not endorse the product/design or address its operational suitability. Finally, this standard replaces all previous versions of the test method for current and future testing.