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Thrie Beam Guardrail

Reinforced strength and improved longevity.

The Thrie-Beam shares similar characteristics with the W-Beam Guardrail. Much like the W-Beam, the Thrie-Beam also consists of a post and block design which reduces wheel snagging and the possibility of the vehicle hurdling over the guardrail barrier.

The additional corrugation which is featured in the Thrie-Beam Guardrail stiffens the system, making it less prone to damage during low-moderate speed vehicle impacts, providing a comparatively sturdier guardrail barrier system that can withstand greater impact force. It also allows higher mounting of the rail, which increases the ability to contain vehicles larger than standard passenger cars under some impact conditions.

Thire Beam Guardrail Gallery

Australian Road Authority Compliant.

All our guardrails are strictly manufactured to meet Australian Standards. The Thrie-Beam can be installed on verges or medians and even on small curves in the road, with the option of standard blocking installation or with modified blocking pieces for heavy vehicle impacts.

  • Supplied in Hot Dip galvanised form (for reinforced strength and improved longevity) ready for installation
  • Additional corrugation in rail element stiffens the system making it better able to encounter larger impact
  • Shields hazards located in close proximity to the edge of the roadway
  • Post and Block design reduces wheel snagging and the consequential effects of vehicle roll over occurring
  • Performs well on the outside of curves (even those of small radius) as concave shape supports the development of tension in the rail
  • Can be used in verge or median locations
  • 2m Standard Post spacing
  • Height to top of the rail:
    • 805 mm (SA &WA)
    • 825 mm (QLD & WA)
  • 0.6m dynamic deflection at 2.0m post spacing
  • 30m minimum length (recommended)
  • 600 mm distance between the rear of the system and the hinge point of the batter (recommended)

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Please note that we only service the Sydney region and are unable to do residential jobs.


Thrie-beam guardrail specialists.

Metal Fencing Specialists have over three decades of experience in the installation of guardrail systems and safety barriers. Our professional installers have completed Thrie-Beam projects on freeways, residential streets and private roads all over NSW.

To enquire about our Thrie-Beam Guardrail product range, or for an obligation free installation quote, call Metal Fencing Specialists today on 1300 904 284.

Thrie-Beam is one of several MASH-tested barrier systems we offer. View our full range of roadside guardrails to compare options for your project.

W-Beam Guardrail safety Barrier in grass

Frequently Asked Questions

Thrie Beam is a corrugated steel guardrail with three ridges rather than the two found on W-Beam, giving it greater stiffness and a higher containment capacity. It is commonly used at transitions between barrier systems, on bridge parapets, in median applications, and at locations where a higher level of vehicle containment is required.

Thrie Beam is most commonly used in situations that demand a higher level of containment than standard W-Beam guardrail can provide. You’ll find it at bridge approaches, median separators on high-speed roads, and transition points between guardrail and concrete barriers, as well as on steep embankments and sites where closer post spacing is needed.

When installed correctly, Thrie Beam systems comply with AS/NZS 3845 and are selected from products that meet the required MASH or NCHRP 350 test performance for the containment level specified. All installations by Metal Fencing Specialists are completed to your unique project specifications and the relevant Transport for NSW or RMS requirements.

Thrie Beam is the standard approach for transitioning between a flexible W-Beam system and a rigid concrete barrier. The transition section is engineered to manage the stiffness change between the two systems and reduce the risk of vehicle pocketing or snagging at the joint. We install these transitions as part of full barrier projects or as standalone upgrades to existing installations.

Bridge approach installations require careful and detailed attention to the connection between the flexible barrier and the rigid bridge. We work with you to assess the working width available on your project, install the appropriate anchor and transition sections, and make sure the barrier flare and taper meet the design requirements. All bridge approach work is carried out to your relevant project standards and engineering specifications.

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