600-213Section 653 — U-Section Posts
653.1Description
1 Furnish, fabricate, and install U -section posts.
653.2Materials
1 Use the specified number of steel U -section posts weighing either 2 lb/ft (2P) or 3 lb/ft (3P) of the specified length in feet to support flat sheet signs and delineators or to brace certain flat sheet signs indicated on the Plans (e .g., 2-3P-12′). The sizes indicate the weight of the posts per linear foot (tolerance of ±5%) before galvanizing. 2 Use posts that are made of either re- rolled rail steel or billeted steel conforming to the mechanical and implied chemical requirements of ASTM A499, Grade 60. 3 Use 2P U -section posts, 10 ft long, for bridge end markers and 2P U -section posts, 7.5 ft long, for delineators. For all other posts, use the weight and length indicated on the Plans and the Standard Drawings . 4 Use retroreflective sign post panels constructed of a nonmetallic composite or 3mm aluminum composite material covered with a 3- in. wide Type III sheeting. Use sheeting that complies with Subsection 651.2.3 . Use approved panels included on the Approved Products List For Traffic Control Devices in Work Zones .
653.3Construction
653.3.1 Fabrication 1 Ensure that U -section posts have a minimum of fifty -eight, ⅜-in. diameter holes punched on 1- in. centers beginning 1 in. from the top of the post. If additional holes are necessary, conform to the standard punching procedures, but do not locate holes less than 1 in. on centers. 2 After fabrication, hot -dip galvanize the full length and total area of each post according to ASTM A123.
653.3.2 Erection 1 Unless otherwise directed by the RCE , drive the U -section posts firmly into ground at the required line and grade. Protect the posts while driving with a special driving cap. Install posts in a true vertical position. 2 Align signs, delineators, and bridge end markers accurately. Mount signs and delineators on the flange side of the U -section posts, except where the Plans show signs mounted on both sides. Mounting of signs may be by some other