Airport barriers

JET BLAST PROTECTION BARRIER SYSTEMS

The jet blast barrier is a device used to control the impact of the airflow generated by aircraft either as they manoeuvre around an airfield or during ground testing at higher engine power settings.

There are many instances why such a barrier would be necessary and a wide variety of applications to be found at most airfields. This is particularly true for airfields with limited space and crowded infrastructure, but is also a vital part of both existing airport expansion/development and new airport design.

The principle reason for a jet blast protection barrier is to provide an aerodynamically efficient device to control the engine efflux of aircraft. This must be capable of providing protection at whatever power level the aircraft happens to be employing as it positions itself around the airfield. The barriers are typically necessary to protect buildings, roadways, vehicles and personnel at areas where the jet efflux may cause damage or constitute a risk to safety. Because of the complex infrastructure, the variety of aircraft and the uniqueness of every airport configuration there is a need to provide a range of jet blast protection barriers to achieve this. IAC Acoustics barrier systems have been developed with this in mind and our product range provides this with a modern global approach to specifying, selecting, manufacturing and installing the equipment that is right for the application.

ANGLED MESH BARRIER (AMB)

For situations where visual transparency is still required, but improved aerodynamic performance is necessary IAC have developed the angled mesh barrier. With many component parts in common with the vertical mesh barrier it is the angle at which this barrier is set that gives the improvement to performance with an almost 90 degree change of direction to the jet flow.

This improves the size (height) of the protected area behind the barrier giving a wider range of options for application when a larger base footprint is available.

CURVED SOLID BARRIER (CSB)

This barrier was developed to cater for the full range of aircraft and at all power settings to give the maximum possible protection. Designed with the minimum number of individual components to simplify manufacture and assembly, the shape was developed using sophisticated computer modelling techniques which have been field verified and demonstrate the principle to ‘collect’ and then ‘eject’ the jet wake in the most efficient aerodynamic way. The unique feature of this barrier is the special corrugated sheet material used to provide the deflecting surface, it undergoes a special ‘dimpling’ process during manufacture that gives up to 30% added strength for the given material thickness allowing IAC to use lighter materials which make them easier to handle and reduce shipping costs.

ANGLED MESH BARRIER PALLETISED (AMB-P)

Designed for developing airports, this barrier is ideal for use in areas where high performance is required but in a temporary location. Typically this may be where infrastructure is being changed or implemented while keeping the airport fully operational and protected. The barrier has all the performance attributes of the fixed angled mash barrier and can therefore be used for all aircraft up to break-away power settings. Each barrier section is mounted to a robust concrete pallet that is designed for positioning either via fork-lift or by crane using the integral lifting points. This barrier is robust enough to be positioned and re-positioned multiple times over many years and can even be converted to a fixed barrier by removing it from the pallet and re-erecting to standard foundations.

ANGLED FIBERGLASS BARRIERS (AFB)

In association with our global partners (Blastwall Ltd), IAC can offer the original and patented fiberglass barrier series of products which have been designed to overcome problems associated with locating metallic barriers near to airport systems such a radar or ILS. The fiberglass barrier provides all the protection qualities of the above described metallic barriers and has the added benefit of being frangible should there be an impact risk and also completely corrosion free due to its material of construction – even the bolts are fibreglass! It is lightweight and easy to assemble, with lifting equipment only being necessary during assembly for the larger versions. This barrier is ideal for end of runway applications where passing roadways need protection.

ACOUSTIC BARRIERS

As you might expect, acoustic barriers are our specialty and our simple and robust acoustic systems can provide over 10dB(A) reduction in noise when installed. The barriers, depending on application will use one of our standard acoustic panels attached to structural steel columns to form a continuous surface that can offer absorption as well as excellent transmission loss performance. All components are designed for extremely low maintenance, continuous outdoor use in harsh environments and will give many years of community benefit following installation.

BESPOKE BARRIERS

IAC have designed a series of barriers that should cover every possible requirement, but there is always an exception to the rule. If you have an application that you consider to be outside of this range, then our extensive experience is at your service to help you with your specific requirement. If we cannot find a way to apply or adapt one of our existing barriers we can be contracted to develop a bespoke barrier that will provide the performance you require, be it ultra-high temperature, unique shape or even powered moveable barriers.

TYPICAL BARRIER ATTRIBUTES

All hot dip galvanized structure and fixing components
Locking fixings used throughout to prevent FOD
Fully aerodynamically modelled and tested to give excellent aerodynamic performance
Fully structurally load tested to optimize component sizing
Globally sourced and manufactured
Skilled installation teams or supervised install programs
Options for painting using airport standard high visibility colour schemes
Options for adding obstruction lighting and signage
Line of sight through mesh barrier products
Versions available for all aircraft and all power settings