B
HomeLibrariesCode AISearchProjectsBookmarksAddress
FeedbackHelp Desk
Libraries
Estimate & calculate
CalculatorsChecklists
PricingLog in
MANUFACTURED MATERIAL

1103TRAFFIC SIGNING AND MARKING

PA · 2026 Standard Specifications✓ Full text on BuildSpecBook pages 1248–0 Save this section

Ask about Section 1103

Get a cited answer from the section text. Click the citation to check it.

One cited answer a day is free. Start a 14-day trial for unlimited, no card required.

1103.01GENERAL REQUIREMENTS—Certify material, as specified in Section 106.03(b)3

1103.02EXTRUDED ALUMINUM CHANNEL SIGNS (FOR POST MOUNTED SIGNS, TYPES A AND E

AND STRUCTURE MOUNTED)—

(a)Extruded Aluminum Channels. As shown on the Standard Drawings.

Use channels according to ASTM B221, Alloy 6063-T6. Use continuous-channel sections equal to the sign width. The channel section is nominal. An alternate extruded channel section of equal or greater section moduli with dimensions suitable to utilize the mounting hardware may be used with written permission.

(b)Coating Treatment. Use a chemical conversion coating, such as Alodine No. 1200, Alodine No. 1200S,

or Bonderite No. 781. Apply the coating to the channel surfaces to ensure a good bond between the reflective sheeting material and the surface. Coat according to Military Specification, MIL-C-5541E, “Chemical Conversion Coatings on Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys.” Do not handle with bare hands between the chemical conversion coating process and the application of the reflective sheeting. Handle by special devices or by hand wearing clean PVC gloves.

(c)Reflective Sheeting. Use precolored Type III, IV, VIII, IX, or XI sheeting, according to the Department's

Specification for Retroreflective Sheeting Materials and Process Inks for Traffic Control. Apply the sheeting to the face and a 3/8- inch width along both edges of the channel sections, using a procedure specified by the sheeting material manufacturer. Apply free of bubbles or wrinkles greater than 3 inches in length and with total sheeting shrinkage of not more than 1/8- inch. A maximum of one splice may be made in the sheeting for any channel section. Make the splice perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline of the channel, with the edges of adjacent pieces butted together throughout the e ntire seam length, without any overlap or separation. If covered sections are stacked before sign fabrication, then use microfoam between sign faces and store sections in a vertical position.

(d)Legend and Border. Use direct-applied cutout Type VIII, IX, or XI reflective sheeting material for letters,

numerals, accessories, borders, and symbols.

(e)Sign Fabrication. Apply the reflective sheeting, then firmly bolt channels together with the webs in the

same plane, to form a smooth and uniform surface. Adjust channel ends for correct position so the edges are free from projections. Securely fasten assembled sign panels to a rigid framework before application of legend and before shipment. Lay out the legend and border on the sign face as indicated. Apply cutout Type VIII, IX, or XI legend and border to sign face according to manufacturer's instructions. Fabricate signs in a single unit. If necessary, ship large signs sectionalized in panels. When shipping sectionalized signs, slit any legend and border, which overlaps the panels.

(f)Sign Identification. Fabricate the plaques of aluminum, plastic, or fiberglass of sufficient thickness

to provide the necessary stiffness and to resist vandalism, or stencil directly on the sign panel with weather-resistant paint. Indicate sign number and the month and year of erection in 1 inch high characters of a contrasting color to the background, and affix to the rear of the sign in the lower righthand corner when viewed from the back. If rivets are used to attach plaques, use 1/8-inch aluminum rivets inserted from the sign face.

1103.03FLAT SHEET ALUMINUM SIGNS WITH STIFFENERS (FOR POST MOUNTED SIGNS, TYPES A,

D, AND E; AND STRUCTURE MOUNTED SIGNS)—

(a)Flat Sheet Aluminum. Use aluminum as specified in Section 1103.04(a) with a minimum thickness

of 0.080 inch.

Fabricate panels from a single aluminum sheet or from a number of pieces, making every effort to minimize the total length of joints. Locate joints so the legend does not straddle two or more aluminum sheets, whenever possible. Use sheets with a minimum width of 48 inches, wherever possible. Use continuous sheets for the full width of signs less than 12 feet wide or for the full height of signs less than 12 feet high. Use sheets free of buckles, warps, or dents. Remove burrs.

(b)Coating Treatment and Reflective Sheeting. Sections 1103.02(b) and (c), except as follows:

Apply the sheeting only to the face of the sign. A maximum of one splice in the reflective sheeting will be allowed on an aluminum sheet.

(c)Legend and Border. Section 1103.02(d)
(d)Extruded Aluminum Stiffeners, and Splice Bars. As shown on the Standard Drawings and as

follows: Manufacture channels from aluminum, according to ASTM B209, Alloy 6061-T6. Use large stiffener sections in 16-foot lengths and medium stiffener sections in 12-foot lengths. An alternate cross section of equal or greater section modulus than that indicated may be used with written permission.

(e)Sign Fabrication. Stiffener sections may end at a maximum of 3 inches from each sign edge. If the

sign is more than 6 inches wider than the length of a full -length stiffener section, then splice two sections together, using 3/16-inch rivets, as shown on the Standard Drawings, to form a longer composite section. Position the splice so it is not on or within 15 inches of a signpost or within the center half of the span between signposts. Stagger splices on adjacent sign stiffeners as much as possible. The aluminum sheeting may extend above the top stiffener or below the bottom stiffener for a maximum distance equal to one-third of the spacing between the stiffeners. If using an exit panel, use a stiffener on both the primary sign top and on the exit panel bottom. Use 3/16-inch aluminum rivets at a maximum spacing of 6 inches and end rivets within 1 inch of the end of the stiffener. Hold the aluminum sheet firmly against the stiffener section while holes are drilled, and rivets are expanded. If the aluminum sheets are placed with the long dimension vertical or if a single large section stiffener or a single flanged medium section stiffener is used to join two panels together, then it may be necessary to have the flat sheet aluminum clamped to the stiffener section while the holes are drilled. Then, disassemble the sign for shipping. If disassembled, then remove burrs around the drilled holes to facilitate handling and to ensure a tight connection. If exit panels cannot be supported by two signposts, brace the panel with one or more auxiliary supports. Bolt the supports to a minimum of three stiffeners on the primary sign by use of clips. If a single stiffener section is not used to join two adjacent panels together use butting plates, as shown on the Standard Drawings . Place butting plates at the left and right edges of the sign and at intervals not greater than 36 inches throughout the length of horizontal joints between the posts. Use either twist-in bolts or standard-connection bolts and plastic inserts to fasten the butting plates. For joints between aluminum sheets, without a stiffener on the joint, fasten lightweight aluminum sheets with 1/8-inch aluminum rivets to the sign back. Use twist-in toggle and buckle straps, or post clips, on stiffener sections at each post. Lay out the legend and border on the sign face according to the sign fabrication drawings. Apply cutout Type VIII, IX, or XI legend and border to sign face according to manufacturer's instructions. Fabricate signs in a single unit. If necessary, ship large signs sectionalized in panels. Slit any legend and border, which overlaps the panel, when shipping sectionalized signs.

(f)Sign Identification. Section 1103.02(f)
(g)Internally Illuminated Signs.

System must conform to 47 CFR Part 15.

Mount to traffic signal support using a minimum of two bracket connections. Secure each bracket to the traffic signal or luminaire support using double stainless steel banding. Connect wiring from Internally Illuminated Sign to a circuit breaker in the electrical service disconnect box. Provide maintenance demonstration to municipal official responsible for maintaining the sign. Construct sign using a weatherproof housing with drain holes in the bottom of the sign and corrosion

resistant stainless steel for all fasteners and hardware. Sign must be UL listed and approved. Use transparent reflective sheeting capable of being internally illuminated and retroreflective when not energized. Use Clearview W2 font or as indicated on the plan. The designated display message should be dimmable to adjust to ambient light conditions to ensure legibility from at least 400 feet. Internally illuminate with Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Sign display message character color, dimensions, and layout must be according to Publication 236 and the MUTCD. For Street Name Signs show approved street name on both faces (double- sided), unless otherwise approved by the Representative in writing. Supply a weather-tight wire entrance junction box with the sign assembly. Mount the box on the exterior or interior of the sign. Use an appropriately sized 3- conductor (minimum 14 AWG) cable between the sign and the controller assembly. For Street Name Signs mounted on the mast arm, provide brackets that allow the sign to swing freely. Use a two-point support assembly to mount the Internally Illuminated Street Name Sign to a mast arm that is perpendicular to the street or use a single-point support assembly if the Internally Illuminated Sign is attached to a mast arm that is diagonal to the street. Mount a photocell on the top of each sign. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(h)School Zone Speed Limit Flashing Warning Sign.

System must conform to 47 CFR 15. Sign display message character color, dimensions, and layout must be followed according to Publication 236 and the MUTCD. Utilize approved yellow LED indications as specified in Section 955.2(c). For Type II and Type III sign, use LED-illuminated “15” speed limit message. Include all hardware to provide a functional assembly. Functional assembly includes specified structural support with foundation, mounting hardware, weather resistant NEMA rated enclosure, an approved solid state flasher - dual circuit controller assembly, an approved solid state time clock, wireless/cellular communications if applicable, and wiring for the indications. Provide and label an on/off switch in the controller assembly to operate the flashing yellow LED lenses and the speed limit message while retaining power to the time clock. LED or steady “15” speed limit messages must not be visible when extinguished. Provide a hardwired or solar powered capable system as indicated. If solar powered, ensure the panel dimensions and battery capacity is sized to provide continuous 24-hour, 365-day operation. Provide a lockable enclosure for the batteries. The design of the enclosure must allow batteries to be easily removed and replaced. All power inputs must be fuse or other current limiting device protected. If hardwired, connect wiring from sign to a circuit breaker in the electrical service disconnect box. Solar powered and hardwired systems must be able to recover from power loss and return to their operation state independent from user intervention. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(i)Flashing Warning Sign.

System must conform to 47 CFR 15. Utilize approved yellow LED indications as specified in Section 955. Include all hardware to provide a functional assembly. Functional assembly includes specified structural support with foundation, mounting hardware, an approved solid state flasher - dual circuit controller assembly, an approved solid state time clock and wiring for the indications. Provide and label an on/off switch in the controller assembly to operate the flashing yellow LED lenses while retaining power to the time clock. Provide a hardwired or solar powered capable system as indicated. If solar powered, ensure the solar power system is properly sized to provide continuous 24-hour, 365-day operation. Provide a lockable enclosure for the batteries. The design of the enclosure must allow batteries to be easily removed and replaced. All power inputs must be fuse or other current limiting device protected. If hardwired, connect wiring from LED Blank-Out sign to a circuit breaker in the electrical service disconnect box. Both solar powered and hardwired systems must be able to recover from power loss and return to their

operation state independent from user intervention. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(j)LED Blank-Out Signs.

System must conform to 47 CFR 15. Provide LED Blank -Out Signs according to Publication 236; MUTCD; the current ITE Standard for “Vehicle Traffic Control Signal Heads - Light Emitting Diode (LED) Circular Signal Supplement.” Sign display message symbols and characters must be according to Publication 236 and the MUTCD. Provide sign assembly capable of working in coordination with signal controller, flashing beacons, or illuminated messages as indicated. Sign assembly includes the appropriate equipment and cabling to allow communications, photoelectric cells, and mounting hardware. Include all hardware to provide a functional assembly capable of operating under all weather conditions. When applicable, the assembly will include internally illuminated messages in an opaque housing with a face of translucent plastic. Signs will be capable of maintaining illuminated LED message if power failure occurs. LED message must not be visible when extinguished. LED message should be dimmable to adjust to ambient light conditions and vehicle headlights to ensure legibility from at least 400 feet. Provide sign assembly capable of obtaining power from traffic signal cabinet. Provide successful laboratory test results verification from manufacturer. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(k)LED Border Lit Signs.

System must conform to 47 CFR 15. Utilize approved LEDs, ensuring that all LEDs are operable from a solar or electrical self-contained source capable of supplying power to the device. LEDs modules are to be placed around the perimeter outer edge of the sign. The LED modules cannot be placed within the background area of the sign except for “Stop” and “Yield” signs where LEDs may be placed within one border distance within the background of the sign. Border distance dimensions must be according to Publication 236. The LEDs are to be wired so that all other LEDs will continue to operate if one were to fail. If LEDs are flashed, all LEDs must flash simultaneously and have a flash rate of more than 50 and less than 60 times per minute. LEDs must match the following colors based on the sign type.

• White or red if used with “Stop”, “Yield”, “Do not enter”, and “Wrong Way” signs.

• White if used with other regulatory signs.

• White or yellow if used with warning signs and school area signs.

• White if used with guide signs.

• White, Yellow, or Orange if used with temporary traffic control signs.

All LEDs used on an individual sign must be of the same production batch for uniformity. Chromaticity range requirements of individual LEDs are as follows.

• Red: 615-635 nm wavelength.

• Yellow: 585-595 nm wavelength.

• White: 4,000-6,500 K correlated color temperature.

• White if used with other regulatory signs.

• White or yellow if used with warning signs and school area signs.

LEDs should be dimmable to adjust to ambient light conditions and vehicle headlights to ensure legibility from at least 1/2 mile during daylight or nighttime conditions. Include all hardware to provide a functional assembly capable of operating under all weather conditions. Assembly includes specified structural support with foundation, mounting hardware, an approved solid- state flasher - dual circuit controller assembly, Americans with Disabilities Act ( ADA) compliant pedestrian push button detection if applicable, wireless communication if applicable, and an approved solid-state time clock and wiring for the indications. All wiring for sign components is to be concealed by raceways or other compartments to protect from damage by weather and vandalism. The assembly will be capable of detecting advancing traffic and flashing in sequence with other LED Border Lit Signs when applicable and to the satisfaction of the Department. Provide a hardwired or solar powered capable system as indicated. If solar powered, ensure the solar power system is properly sized to provide continuous 24-hour, 365-day operation. Provide a lockable enclosure for the batteries. The design of the enclosure must allow batteries to be easily removed and replaced. All power inputs must be fuse or other current limiting device protected. If hardwired, connect wiring from sign to a circuit breaker in the electrical service disconnect box. Both solar powered and hardwired systems must be able to recover from power loss and return to their operation state independent from user intervention. Provide successful laboratory test results verification from manufacturer. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(l)LED Red Signal Ahead Signs.

System must conform to 47 CFR 15. Sign display message character color, dimensions, and layout must be according to Publication 236 and the MUTCD. Provide sign assembly capable of working in coordination with signal controller as indicated. Sign assembly includes specified structural support with foundation, all mounting hardware, wiring, photoelectric cells, and hardware to provide a functional assembly capable of operating under all weather conditions. The “RED” LED message must not be visible when extinguished. Message will be activated externally, only when traffic signal controller is in the appropriate red phase condition. Provide successful laboratory test results verification from manufacturer. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(m)Permanent Speed Display Signs.

System must conform to Sections 5.82 Nighttime Dimming, 6.4.3 Environmental Tests, and 6.4.6.3 Electronic Noise of the June 2007 ITE Standard for “Vehicle Traffic Control Signal Heads – LED Circular Signal Supplement.” The display sign must satisfy an International Protection rating of IP14. S ystem must conform to 47 CFR 15. Include all hardware to provide a functional assembly capable of operating under all weather conditions. Assembly includes specified structural support with foundation, mounting hardware, wiring, controller assembly with programmable schedule option, light sensor, dynamic display panel, “Your Speed” sign if applicable, and solar components if applicable. Dynamic display panel must consist of a modular display panel capable of displaying a two- digit vehicle speed with characters a minimum of 12 inches in height. The display should be dimmable to adjust to ambient light conditions and vehicle headlights to ensure legibility from at least 400 feet. The display must appear completely blank when not energized. Phantom characters and ghosting are prohibited under any ambient light conditions. Ghosting is where non- illuminated LED bulbs are visible while other LED bulbs in the display are illuminated making the display less legible. The speed displayed must flash at a rate of no less than 60 cycles per minute once the display is activated. Acceptable indication colors must be yellow or white and must have a viewing angle of 30 degrees. A “Your Speed” sign must be mounted to the top of the dynamic display panel. The sign must be made with Type III High Intensity sheeting and must be capable of being easily removed and replaced. Alternately, a “Your Speed” lighted display inside the sign system is acceptable. System must be posted beneath an approved flashing warning sign system, school zone speed limit flashing warning sign system, and/or static Publication 236 approved speed limit sign. The dynamic display panel portion of the display must receive input from an internal speed detection device. The speed detection device determines the speed of a target and must be used for the oncoming approach. The speed detection device should measure in miles per hour with an accuracy of ± 1.5 miles per hour and a target speed range of 10 to 99 miles per hour. The speed detection device must feed directly to the dynamic display panel portion. The SDS system must be programmable for the posted speed limit

and the maximum speed to display. When detected speed exceeds the maximum programmed speed threshold determined by the Department the display will automatically blank. Alternately, the display may show “slow down” when speeds exceed the maximum programmed speed threshold. Provide a housing that is weather, shatter, and tamper resistant including weather tight cable entry or connection points. The front face of the display must be anti-reflective polycarbonate, or a material acceptably comparable in performance. The front face must be resistant to ultraviolet light, fading and discoloration. The housing must be NEMA 3R rated and must be accessible only by authorized personnel. Provide a hardwired or solar powered capable system as indicated. If solar powered, ensure the solar power system is properly sized to provide continuous 24-hour, 365-day operation. Provide a lockable enclosure for the batteries. The design of the enclosure must allow batteries to be easily removed and replaced. All power inputs must be fuse or other current limiting device protected. If hardwired, connect wiring from sign to a circuit breaker in the electrical service disconnect box. Both solar powered and hardwired systems must be able to recover from power loss and return to their operation state independent from user intervention. Provide successful laboratory test results verification from the manufacturer. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

(n)Temporary Speed Display Signs. 1103.04(m)
(o)Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon Assembly.

System must conform to 47 CFR 15. Include all hardware to provide a functional assembly. Assembly includes specified structural support with foundation, mounting hardware, weather resistant NEMA rated enclosure, wiring, controller assembly, RRFB unit, wireless communication system for RRFB units, crossing sign(s), pedestrian confirmation light, backplate (optional), ADA compliant pedestrian push button if applicable, pedestrian push button sign if applicable, passive pedestrian detection (if applicable), and solar components (if applicable). RRFB must conform to MUTCD, Part 4 and Interim Approval for the Optional Use of Pedestrian-Actuated Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons at Uncontrolled Marked Crosswalks (IA-21). Provide a RRFB unit with two rectangular-shaped yellow indications, each with an LED-array-based light source. Each indication must be at least 5 inches wide by at least 2 inches high. The two indications must be aligned horizontally with the longer dimension horizontal and a minimum space of at least 7 inches between the nearest edge of each indication. The outside edges of the two indications, including any housings, must not project beyond the outside edges of the crossing warning sign that it supplements. The two indications must be located between and immediately adjacent to the bottom of the crossing warning sign and the top of the supplemental placards or within 12 inches above the crossing warning sign. Provide a RRFB unit capable of rapidly flashing at a sequence of 75 flashes per minute when actuated. The flash rate of each individual indication, as applied over the full flashing sequence, must avoid the flashing between 5 and 30 flashes per second. The RRFB indications initiate operation only upon pedestrian actuation. The RRFB indications ceases operation at a predetermined time determined using MUTCD Section 4I.06 guidance. Provide two yellow indications that meet the minimum specifications for Class 1 yellow peak luminous intensity in the SAE Standard J95 current version and are capable of automatically dimming. At minimum, provide an ADA compliant pedestrian push button for each RRFB unit even if passive pedestrian detection is installed. Include a “push button to turn on warning lights” (R10-25) sign with the pedestrian push button installation. Provide a pedestrian confirmation light, visible by pedestrians waiting to utilize the crosswalk, for either push button actuation or the combined push button and passive pedestrian detection actuation. The pedestrian confirmation light must initiate and commence operation in concert with the rapid flashing beacon indications. If an audible push button is utilized, a “Yellow Lights are Flashing” audible message should be repeated twice at the start of the rapid flashing beacon sequence. Provide RRFB units capable of rapid- flashing simultaneously with all other RRFB units associated with the crosswalk or intersection as indicated. All RRFB units at the associated crosswalk or intersection must initiate and commence rapid-flashing operation simultaneously. Provide a hardwired or solar powered capable system as indicated. If solar powered, ensure the solar power system is properly sized to provide continuous 24-hour, 365-day operation. Provide a lockable enclosure for the batteries. The design of the enclosure must allow batteries to be easily removed and replaced. All power inputs must be fuse or other current limiting device protected. If hardwired, connect wiring from sign to a circuit breaker in the electrical service disconnect box. Both solar powered and hardwired systems must be able to recover from power loss and return to their

operation state independent from user intervention. Provide successful laboratory test results verification from manufacturer. Provide all warranty documentation as specified in Section 950.3(j) to the Representative at final acceptance.

1103.04FLAT SHEET SIGNS (FOR POST MOUNTED SIGNS, TYPES B, C, AND F; AND DISTANCE

MARKERS)—

(a)Blanks. Use aluminum blanks. For signs furnished under Section 901, use plywood, aluminum,

acryonitrite butadiene styrene (ABS), aluminum/plastic laminate, corrugated polypropylene, or polyethylene blanks. Physical and chemical properties of plywood and aluminum blanks according to Publication 306.

(b)Coating Treatment. Prepare sign faces with appropriate coating according to Publication 306.
(c)Reflective Sheeting. Section 1103.02(c).
1.General. Apply the sheeting to the sign face using a procedure according to the sheeting manufacturer,

free of bubbles or wrinkles greater than 3 inches in length, and with total sheeting shrinkage of not more than 1/8-inch. On signs larger than 48 inches on the shorter side, sheeting may be spliced with the edges of adjacent pieces butted together throughout the entire seam length without any overlap or separation. Use Type III, IV, VIII, IX, or XI sheeting for all signs.

(d)Ink. As recommended by the manufacturer of the reflective sheeting.
(e)Electronic Cuttable (EC) Film. Use film as recommended by the manufacturer of the reflective

sheeting. Apply the sheeting to the sign face using a procedure according to the sheeting manufacturer, free of bubbles or wrinkles greater than 1 inch in length.

(f)Legend and Border . Apply legend and border of the color, size, and dimensions according to

Publication 212, Publication 213, and the MUTCD or as indicated. Use silk screens with a mesh of 12XX or finer for reverse screening. Use stencils with sharp clear-cut edges, uniform curvature, and straight lines. Silk screen in a manner resulting in uniform color and tone, with sharply-defined edges and without blemishes on the sign background. Air dry or bake signs after silk screening to achieve a smooth hard finish. Blisters appearing during the drying process will be cause for rejection. If direct -applied legend is indicated for any directional or destination sign, use Type III, IV, VIII, IX, or XI reflective sheeting. Slip-sheet and pack signs to ensure delivery in an undamaged condition.

1103.05DELINEATION FOR PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY IMPACT ATTENUATORS, CRASH

CUSHIONS, AND TERMINAL SECTION, SINGLES—

(a)Reflective Sheeting. Use sheeting from a manufacturer listed in Bulletin 15.
1.General. Apply the sheeting to the head of the product according to the manufacturer's recommendation

and as shown on the Standard Drawings. Apply the sheeting to be free of bubbles or wrinkles greater than 3 inches in length. Sheeting may be spliced with the edges of adjacent pieces butted together throughout the entire seam length without any overlap or separation.

1103.07STEELS OR W BEAM POSTS AND BREAKAWAY SYSTEM (FOR POST MOUNTED SIGNS,

TYPE A)—

(a)SteelS or W Beam Posts. As shown on the Standard Drawings.
(b)Breakaway System. As shown on the Standard Drawings and as follows:
1.Couplings. Alloy steel AMS 6378D with:

• Minimum tensile yield stress of 130,000 psi.

• Ultimate tensile strength of 150,000 psi.

• Minimum Rockwell C hardness of 32.

• Capable of withstanding a tensile breaking load of 41,000 pounds.

2.Hinge Plates. Alloy steel AISI 4130, 4340, or an equivalent material with a minimum tensile yield

stress of 70,000 pounds per square inch, an ultimate tensile stress range of 90,000 pounds per square inch to 108,000 pounds per square inch, and a tensile breaking load, in pounds, as follows:

Model SBHB1B 51 min. (11,450 min.) Model SBHB2B 73 min. (16,400 min.)

3.Brackets. Aluminum alloy ASTM B221, Alloy 6061T6 or equal, with a load concentrating boss of

stainless steel, ASTM A582, Type 416, or equal.

4.Bolts, Nuts, and Washers.

4.a Hinge Plates. AISI 4130 Steel. Galvanized as specified in Section 1105.02(s) and according to ASTM A53.

4.b Brackets. ASTM B209; Alloy 6061-T6.

5.Anchor. Type 304 stainless steel ferrule with 1053 steel rod and coil.
6.Coupling Bolts. AMS 6378D, galvanized as specified in Section 1105.02(s) and according to ASTM

A153.

(c)Fabrication. Cut, drill, or punch holes in parts or members before galvanizing. Furnish a statement,

before the beginning of galvanizing, showing the carbon content of the steel to be galvanized. Hot-dip galvanize posts and hardware after fabrication, as specified in Section 1105.02(s). Bolts, nuts, and washers to be galvanized according to ASTM B695 and B696 and according to the coating thickness, adherence, and quality requirements of ASTM A153 (AASHTO M 232).

1103.08BREAKAWAY STEEL POSTS (FOR POST MOUNTED SIGNS, TYPE B AND DISTANCE

MARKERS)—

(a)Steel Channel Bar Posts. As shown on the Standard Drawings. Use steel channel bar post, according

to the Department’s specification for Breakaway Channel Bar Posts, from a manufacturer listed in Bulletin 15.

(b)Steel Square Posts. As shown on the Standard Drawings. Use steel square post, according to the

Department’s specification for Breakaway Steel Square Posts, from a manufacturer listed in Bulletin 15.

1103.09TREATED WOOD AND COMPOSITE POSTS (FOR POST MOUNTED SIGNS, TYPES C AND E)—

(a)Treated Wood Posts (for Post Mounted Signs, Types C and E).
1.Posts. S4S No. 1 Dense or No. 1 Dense SR Southern Yellow Pine or No. 1 Douglas Fir -Larch,

seasoned to a maximum of 19% moisture.

Grade and grade mark each post, before treatment, with an official grade stamp or inspection agency mark, certified by the Board of Review, American Lumber Standards Committee. Cut and drill before preservative treatment.

2.Treatment. Treat with Ammoniacal Copper Arsenite (ACA) or Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA)

Type A, B, or C meeting AWPA Standard P5. Use a minimum preservative retention of 0.40 pound per cubic foot by assay (oxide basis). Treat and quality mark according to AWPA C2. Inspect according to AWPA Standards M1 and M2. Include a treatment certificate with each shipment.

(b)Composite Posts (for Post Mounted Signs, Type E).
1.Posts. Unsaturated polyester resin reinforced with E-glass and lightweight aggregate concrete not

greater than 110 pounds per cubic foot to form a rigid structural support member. Tensile modulus of tube to be not less than 2,500 kips per square inch. Posts to be equal to or greater in strength to Schedule 40 steel of the same diameter according to ASTM A53.

2.Weathering. Post must have less than 10% loss of strength after 3,600 hours of accelerated

weathering exposure to moisture and lamps according to ASTM G152, G55, and G154.

3.Color. Specified post color will be permanent throughout the FRP tube with not less than 1.5 mil

dry film thickness. After 3,600 hours exposure according to ASTM G152, G155, and G154, posts will exhibit 90% adhesion, ASTM D4541 and a maximum color change of 25, Delta -E.

1103.10DELINEATOR POSTS—Not used

1103.11MISCELLANEOUS MATERIALS—

(a)Hex Head Bolts , Nuts, and Washers for Extruded Panel Sign Post- Clips. Galvanized steel as

specified in Section 1105.02(s):

1.Hex Head Bolts. ASTM A307, Grade A or B.
2.Nut. ASTM A563 DH or ASTM A194 Grade 1 or 2.
3.Washer. Carbon steel helical coil or ASTM F436 or ASTM F844 (Note 1).

Note 1: If either ASTM F436 or ASTM F844 flat washers are used, bolt must be fastened either using two nuts or a single nut with the threads galled adjacent to the nut to prevent loosening.

(b)Post-Clips. For extruded panel signs, aluminum, according to ASTM B108, Alloy 356- T6. For flat

sheet aluminum signs with stiffeners, stainless steel, Type 304, 14 gage.

(c)Auxiliary Supports for Exit Panels. Aluminum according to ASTM B211, Alloy 6061-T6. 3 inches

by 3 inches by 3/16-inch angle, 6 1/2 feet long or long enough to attach to three stiffeners on the main sign.

(d)Lag Screws. 5/16-inch round head, galvanized steel as specified in Section 1105.02(s), and according

to ASTM A307.

(e)Rivets. Aluminum, self-plugging or hollow-core, as follows:

• 3/16-inch for mounting reflective units and distance plaques. Alloy 5056 with 7178 mandrels.

• 3/16-inch for mounting flat aluminum sheets to stiffeners sections. Alloy 5056 with carbon steel mandrels.

Rivet size specified is the minimum shank diameter. Use rivets with sufficient grip range to attach to background sign material, stiffeners, or posts. Use a No. 10 drill for 3/16-inch rivets for attachment of stiffeners and splice bars.

(f)Bolts, Nuts, and Washers for Flat Sheet Aluminum Signs with Stiffeners. Stainless steel, Type

304 bolts. Use 5/16-inch by 1 inch long for butting plates and 5/16 -inch by 2 inches long for post-clips. Use standard connection bolts or twist-in bolts.

(g)Twist-in Toggle and Buckle Straps. Stainless steel, Type 201, and 0.75 -inch wide and 0.03-inch

thick, with rounded edges. Spot welded, twist-in type toggle on end of strap. Spot welded, anti-rotational buckle on other end of strap. Toggles and buckles must be stainless steel, Type 304, and 1/16 -inch thick.

(h)Butting Plates. Fabricate from stainless steel, Type 304.
(i)Anchors. Section 1105.02(c)2
(j)Anti-Theft Sign Hardware.
1.System A.

• Bolts. Section 1105.02(c)1 and as follows: Provide 5/16-inch by 2 1/2-inch or 5/16-inch by 3-inch steel carriage bolts with minimum 11/16 inch diameter round head, square neck, and threads to within 1 inch of head. Furnish bolts having a mechanically deposited cadmium coating, ASTM B696, or zinc, Type I coating as specified in Section 1105.02(s).

• Nuts. Square, pyramidal-shaped nuts with all four sides sloping at an angle of 41 degrees; 5/16- 18 UNC threads; C-1010 cold-rolled steel, case hardened to Rockwell hardness of 55 to 60. Furnish nuts having a 0.002 -inch to 0.005- inch thick, mechanically deposited, zinc, Type II yellow chromate coating as specified in Section 1105.02(s) according to ASTM B695, tested according to ASTM B201.

2.System B.

• Bolts. Section 1103.11(m) and as follows: Provide 5/16-inch by 2 1/2-inch and 5/16-inch by 3-inch bolts with minimum 9/16-inch diameter one- way heads and threads to within 1 inch of head.

• Nuts. Section 1103.11(n) and as follows: Provide nuts, Aluminum Alloy 2011-T3 according to ASTM B211, double- chamfered hexagon with self-locking conical shape 9/16- inch - 3/8-inch by 3/16- inch unit under the nut with 5/16- 18 UNC threads. Hexagon portion should break away from self-locking unit with 5/16-18 UNC to 40 inch-pounds to 80 inch-pounds of torque.

• Washers. Nylon 1/8-inch thick by 1-inch minimum outside diameter with 480 inch-pounds maximum allowable applied torque.

(k)Banding. Stainless steel, Type 201, 0.750- inch wide by 0.030- inch thick, with rounded edges for

handling ease and safety. Buckles and other necessary hardware must be of stainless steel, Type 304.

(m)Aluminum Bolts. ASTM B211. Alloy 2024-T4, thread fit, ANSI Class 6g, and threads must be

within two threads of the head or a minimum of 1 3/4-inches.

(n)Aluminum Nuts. ASTM B211. Alloy 2024-T6, thread fit, ANSI Class 6H (ANSI Class 2B, 18 UNC threads).

1103.12SIGN AND DISTANCE MARKER SUPPORTS—

(a)General. Hot-dip galvanize steel, except stainless steel, after fabrication, as specified in Section

1105.02(s). Drill or punch holes and cut before galvanizing. If attaching to a vertical support or overhead

structure as specified in Sections 935.1 and 936.1, support color must match the color of the vertical support or overhead structure.

(b)Brackets for Post Mounted Signs, Types C, D, and F. ASTM A283.
(c)Bars for Post Mounted Signs, Types C, D, and E. ASTM A709Grade 36.
(d)Shims for Post Mounted Sign, Types C and E. ASTM A709Grade 36.
(e)Steel Pipe Supports for Post Mounted Signs, Types D and E. ASTM A53.
(f)Shapes and Plates for Post Mounted Signs, Type D. ASTM A709 Grade 36.
(g)Angles (Aluminum) for Post Mounted Signs, Type E, and Structure Mounted Signs. ASTM B308,

Alloy 6061-T6.

(h)Shim Bars and Plates for Post Mounted Signs, Type E. ASTM A709 Grade 36.
(i)Brackets, Bars, Clamps, Strips, and Gusset Plates (for Erecting Distance Markers on Bridge Railing).

Stainless Steel, ASTM A240.

1103.13DELINEATOR BRACKETS—Not used

1103.14REFLECTIVE GLASS BEADS—

(a)General. Furnish reflective glass beads according to AASHTO M 247, except as follows:
1.Gradation. Satisfies the following gradation for type indicated:

Sieve Size Percent Beads Passing Type A Type B Type C Type D Type E 2.0 mm (10) - 100 - - - 1.7 mm (12) - 95 to 100 100 - - 1.4 mm (14) - 80 to 95 95 to 100 - 100 1.18 mm (16) 100 10 to 40 80 to 95 100 - 1.0 mm (18) - 0 to 5 10 to 40 - 65 to 80 850 µm (20) - 0 to 2 0 to 5 95 to 100 - 710 µm (25) - - 0 to 2 65 to 90 - 600 µm (30) 75 to 95 - - - 30 to 50 500 µm (35) - - - 10 to 45 - 300 µm (50) 15 to 35 - - 0 to 10 0 to 5 150 µm (100) 0 to 2 - - 0 to 5 -

2.Rounds. Provide glass beads with a minimum of 75% trues pheres overall, a minimum of 70%

true spheres per sieve, and not more than 3% angulars overall. Type E beads must meet a minimum of 80% true spheres for all sieve fractions when measured according to AASHTO T 346.

3.Coating. Supply Type A, B, D , and E glass beads with coatings to enhance moisture resistance,

embedment, and adherence with the binder. Supply Type C with coatings to enhance embedment and adherence. Evaluate coatings to referee methods according to AASHTO T 46.

4.Color-Clarity. Provide glass beads that are colorless/clear and visually free of carbon residue

and/or inclusions containing no greater than 0.004% carbon by weight when measured according to ASTM D4239 combustion infrared.

5.Refractive Index. Minimum 1.51 by oil immersion or equivalent method premeasured according

to AASHTO T 346.

6.Air Inclusions. <5% by visual inspection.
7.Hardness. Beads above the No. 30 sieve are to exhibit an average hardness of C70.5 when

measured using the Rockwell C scale method with a minimum sample of 100 glass beads.

8.Crushing Strength. Beads above the No. 30 sieve are to exhibit an average crushing strength of

not less than 60,000 pounds per square inch when measured with L/D 2 method with a minimum sample of 100 glass beads.

9.Chemical Resistance. Chemical resistance to hydrochloric acid, water, calcium and other chlorides

and sodium sulfides tested according to sections 4.3.6 to 4.3.9 of TT-B Federal Specification 1325D.

10.Performance Properties. The Department will benchmark bead performance properties according

to NCHRP 743 to ensure continued quality and retroreflectivity in markings.

11.Recycled Postconsumer Glass. Incorporate recycled postconsumer glass into glass used for

beads at a minimum of 2% for direct melt processes up to a maximum of 100% by weight for non- direct melt production. Type E beads will contain a minimum of 50% of direct melt glass.

Get an email when 1103 changes

Pennsylvania revises spec sections through supplementals and new editions. We check this one every week and email you the day it changes. Free, no account.

Source: Publication 408 Highway Construction Specifications, 2026 Edition. Pages 1248–0 of 1,522. View official source ↗

Ask about this section

Scoped to Pennsylvania Publication 408 — Specifications, Section 1103 — TRAFFIC SIGNING AND MARKING. Every answer cites the section it came from, with a verification date — don’t trust a percentage, click the citation.