Construction system for cast-in-place concrete barriers for roadways

摘要

A system for constructing concrete barriers on a roadway with adequate spacing between sections of the barrier for proper drainage and expansion of the concrete during changing atmospheric conditions. The process utilizes a specially designed positioning tool to leave a proper space in a latice framework of steel rods. A temporary, removeable core or separating section, made of for example a styrofoam inner layer sandwiched between outer layers of "Masonite," designed for this purpose and matched with the positioning tool is inserted into the space and secured there using pins attached to the metal latice works providing an unbroken, constant surface or mold on which to pour concrete for the barrier. When the concrete has set, the core may be collapsed without damaging the concrete or metal frame and removed. When the various cores are removed, the barrier is left with properly spaced and positioned gaps for drainage and expansion of the concrete. In constructing the metal framework as a mold for the concrete, the invention provides a means for assuring that the metal rods are of even height so that the barrier is esthetically and functionally symetrical. This is accomplished by using an acetylene torch to cut off the rods at the proper height. The torch is held at the proper distance above the floor of the roadside or bridge on which the barrier framework is set by means of a clamp affixing the torch at a fixed height onto a metal rod which rests on the ground or existing prepoured concrete slab. In pouring the concrete, the invention provides for an unobtrusive but effective guide for machines pouring concrete. This is accomplished by using sections of pipe, contact attached, mounted on height adjustable plates.