The California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) utilizes several types of concrete barriers. For permanent installations, CALTRANS typically calls for slip formed, cast-in-place, concrete barriers that do not require connecting or base pins. However, CALTRANS also utilizes Type K Temporary Railing and Type 60K Portable Concrete Barriers, both of which require connecting and anchoring pins. Per Section 12-3.08B(1) of the Caltrans Standard Specifications, Type K Connecting Pins must meet ASTM A36 (for rods with welded plates) orASTM A307 (for headed bolts). Because this type of barrier is temporary, connecting pins do not need to be galvanized.

Temporary Railing (Type K) Connecting Pin – PB Part #18231

Often referred to as a “K Rail,” this is the standard concrete barrier used for temporary installations. The standard connecting pin is an A307 bolt, 1-1/4″ diameter x 26″ long with a 3/8″ thick by 3″ diameter round plate washer under the head.

Alternatively, A36 round bar with a 3″ diameter round plate welded to the top to function as the bolt “head” may be used. Shown here, Portland Bolt manufactures a Caltrans approved K Rail bolt that features a 3″ diameter forged head that eliminates the need for a loose or welded washer.

Both the standard design and the welded alternate details can be seen on Standard Plan T3A.

Portable Concrete Barrier (Type 60K) Connecting Pin

Portable Concrete Barriers are utilized in construction zones where barriers will need to be relocated or traffic shifted rapidly or frequently. The connection pin for this type of barrier is a round steel pin with a steel loop welded to the top. This creates a large ring which makes installation and removal of the pins quick and easy. Depending on the specific project requirements, these pins may or may not need to be hot dip galvanized. The details can be seen onStandard Plan A63A.

Temporary Railing (Type K) Anchor Pin

Caltrans refers to the anchor pins for Type K temporary barriers as “Capped Stakes.” Depending on the location and use, the K Rail barriers may be required to have as many as 4 of these “capped stake” anchor pins per barrier section.

The anchor pin is comprised of ASTM A706 Grade 60 rebar with a 60 ksi minimum yield strength washer welded near the top and a pointed end to facilitate installation. The details can be seen on Standard Plan T3B.