What are the different types of highway guardrail systems?
Sep 11, 2026
Three main guardrail systems protect highways: W-beam (Flex Beam), Thrie-beam, and cable barriers. Each absorbs impact energy and safely redirects your vehicle. Studies confirm guardrails reduce severe crash risk by up to 50%. Your choice depends on traffic, speed limits, terrain, and budget. ACEG engineers quality systems across these categories, including High-Strength Low Deformation Guardrail.
Key Takeaways
Guardrails reduce severe crash risk by up to 50%.
W-beam, Thrie-beam, and cable barriers each protect you in different ways.
Choose the right guardrail based on traffic, speed, terrain, and budget.
W-Beam Guardrail Systems
What Is a W-Beam Guardrail?
You see W-beam guardrails along most highways. The name comes from the beam's shape. It looks like th...