How Choosing the Right Wedge Barrier System Offers Maximum Protection for Your Facilities and Its Occupants
- IronSite Education
- Sep 29
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Understanding Wedge Barriers for Optimal Security
Table of Contents
Introduction
With so many security barrier options available today, choosing the right one can be challenging. Wedge barriers are versatile security solutions that offer a variety of designs and functionalities. They are a go-to choice for various security needs.
This article explores different types of wedge barriers, how they work, and crucial factors to consider when selecting them for your perimeter security.
What Are Wedge Barriers?
Wedge barriers are a type of crash-rated barrier designed to prevent vehicles from breaching the perimeter at critical security locations. Typically made from reinforced or high-strength steel and concrete, these barriers are mounted underground or anchored into concrete or asphalt.
There are four main types of wedge barriers, each with unique characteristics:
Deep Foundation: The strongest and most secure type, these barriers are trenched deeply and secured with a heavy concrete pour. They often have buried hydraulic lines or electrical wiring.
Shallow Foundation: Installed in a shallow trench, these barriers are ideal for businesses with excavation or space limitations.
Surface-Mount: When excavation is impractical, surface-mount wedge barriers are bolted directly to the roadway surface.
Portable/Mobile: These self-contained units can be moved as needed and require no anchoring. They are perfect for temporary use at events or festivals, with crash-rated designs available for high-security protection.
Understanding Crash Ratings
Different wedge barrier designs offer varying levels of crash-rated protection. Crash ratings, set by ASTM, measure an anti-ram barrier's ability to withstand vehicular impacts.
Speed Ratings (M):
M50: Stops a 15,000-pound truck traveling at 50 mph.
M40: Stops a 15,000-pound truck traveling at 40 mph.
M30: Stops a 15,000-pound truck traveling at 30 mph.
Penetration Ratings (P):
P1: Vehicle travels 3.3 feet or less.
P2: Vehicle travels between 3.31 feet and 23 feet.
P3: Vehicle travels between 23.1 and 98.4 feet.
P4: Vehicle travels further than 98.4 feet.
The highest crash rating a barrier can achieve is M50/P1. This means it can stop a 15,000-pound truck traveling at 50 mph with less than 3.3 feet of penetration. For a complete breakdown of crash ratings, check out our “*Crash Ratings Explained blog.
How Do Wedge Barriers Work?
When not in use, wedge barriers sit flush with the surface, allowing vehicles access to the perimeter. Upon activation, they pivot up from the ground to form a ‘wedge’ shape, blocking oncoming traffic. These barriers can stop a 15,000-pound truck traveling at 50 mph.
Wedge barriers can be deployed manually or automatically. Manually operated barriers are controlled by a control panel, while automatic barriers use sensors to detect approaching vehicles. Most wedge barriers deploy within five seconds, but some designs can operate even faster. Emergency Fast Operate (EFO) modes allow some barriers to deploy in under two seconds, crucial for high-security needs.
Wedge barriers come in hydraulic and electric-powered designs. Hydraulic systems have a more complex installation and higher ongoing maintenance costs. However, they offer long-lasting protection when properly maintained. Electric systems have higher initial costs but simpler installation and lower maintenance costs, making them a great alternative.
Wedge Barriers' Role in Perimeter Security
The primary function of wedge barriers is to stop vehicles from penetrating the perimeter. They offer M50/K12 crash-rated designs, providing the highest level of vehicle protection available. These barriers are commonly used in industries that require maximum security.
Deep foundation wedge barriers are popular choices for:
Military bases
Government buildings
Sports stadiums
Corporate campuses
While crash-rated designs exist for surface mount, shallow mount, and portable wedge barriers, these are generally more suitable for businesses seeking lighter security options. They are commonly found in:
Parking garages
Office buildings
Festivals
Concerts
Sporting events
As part of an overall perimeter security strategy, wedge barriers are often integrated with other security equipment. This maximizes effectiveness and streamlines security protocols.
They can be linked with access control systems to automatically lower when a vehicle approaches. Integration with video surveillance allows barriers to respond to specific activities captured on camera. Additionally, they can alert security personnel when an integrated intrusion detection system is triggered.
While wedge barriers provide robust perimeter protection, a layered security approach that combines them with other security systems is essential for maximum protection against threats.
Cost Analysis for Wedge Barriers
The various types of wedge barriers come with different financial implications. Factors such as infrastructure complexity, foundation depth, and crash ratings can heavily influence the bottom line.
Installation Costs:
Deep foundation wedge barriers generally cost more than shallow-mount designs due to excavation requirements.
Hydraulic-powered wedge barriers are more expensive than electric-powered systems due to extensive labor and excavation needs.
High-security wedge barriers with crash-rated protection typically cost more than light-duty designs.
Operational Costs:
Hydraulic-powered wedge barriers usually incur higher costs than electric designs due to:
Pumping units that move fluids through hydraulic lines.
Fluids, lubricants, and seals needed for trenched components.
Heating systems for barriers in extreme cold.
Electric wedge barriers generally cost less to operate due to their simpler designs, reduced energy consumption, and lack of hydraulic infrastructure.
Maintenance Costs:
Electric wedge barriers can be significantly cheaper to maintain than hydraulic systems. Their simpler design means fewer components, no need for heating systems, and no risk of leaks associated with hydraulic lines. This further drives down maintenance costs.
Key Considerations
Before selecting a wedge barrier, consider several important factors to ensure you choose the most effective solution.
Excavation or Space Limitations:
These factors may dictate which type of wedge barrier can be installed. Hydraulic barriers require underground hoses and piping, making them less ideal near underground utilities. Adequate drainage is also essential. If space is limited, an electric wedge barrier may be a better option.
Environmental and Temperature Factors:
Extreme temperatures can impact which wedge barrier design is optimal. For instance, hydraulic barriers may need heating units in freezing conditions. Electric barriers are preferable for low-cycle scenarios or when speed control is a priority. Understanding the operating conditions is key to ensuring reliable protection.
Preventative Maintenance:
Ongoing maintenance is crucial for ensuring wedge barriers remain reliable. Their complex designs require regular upkeep to avoid costly repairs and minimize downtime. Using a certified installer for installation and maintenance is recommended. While this may incur higher initial costs, the long-term savings are substantial.
Relevant Regulations:
Businesses must understand and comply with federal, state, and local regulations. Organizations like the Department of Defense and Homeland Security set specific safety and operational standards. Ensuring compliance is vital for protecting occupants and others.
Common Mistakes:
Businesses often make mistakes when choosing a wedge barrier system. Selecting the wrong type, such as a shallow or surface mount design when a deep foundation is necessary, can be costly. Choosing inadequate crash protection can increase security risks. Not understanding excavation limitations may lead to drainage issues and complications with existing utilities.
The most common mistake is neglecting an ongoing maintenance plan. While it may seem cost-effective to forgo maintenance, the long-term benefits of a maintenance plan far outweigh short-term savings.
Conclusion
Wedge barriers are effective security solutions with a proven track record. Their versatility and adaptability make them highly sought after. However, the key to their effectiveness lies in selecting a wedge barrier that aligns with your unique security needs.
If you have further questions about wedge barriers, consulting with a physical security integrator is advisable. Feel free to check out our Automated Barriers buying guide for additional information.
IronSite is a national physical security provider with specialized expertise to deliver premium solutions at scale. Our extensive family of brands nationwide enables responsive and consistent service and support for all our clients, wherever they may be.
Media Contact
Terin Pickett
IronSite
1595 E. 6th St; Suite 101
Corona, CA 92879
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