Dig in Posts

Armco Dig-In Posts

Dig-In posts are a key component of Armco (steel barrier) systems, intended to be embedded directly into soft ground, such as turf, verge, or unpaved surfaces, without needing a concrete base. This installation method involves casting or planting the lower portion of the post into the ground, secured in place often with post-mix or concrete

RSJ Dig-In Posts

Construction & Performance

• RSJ posts (also known as H‑ or I‑section posts) are fabricated from galvanised rolled steel joists, boasting substantial structural integrity
• Their robust, rigid cross‑section means they deliver immediate and total energy absorption upon impact, stopping vehicles abruptly and offering maximum protection against high‑speed or heavy‑weight collisions

Installation & Use Cases

• Ideal for high‑risk environments such as loading bays, construction sites, warehouses, and industrial yards where heavy vehicles, HGVs, or high-speed traffic are prevalent
• RSJ Dig‑In posts are engineered to be embedded securely for robust barrier support without needing a concrete foundation

Advantages

• Exceptional strength and resilience against major impacts.
• High durability with galvanised finish conforming to BS EN ISO 1461, ensuring long-term corrosion resistance

Considerations

• Higher material cost and installation effort due to excavation requirements. Still, they provide unmatched protection in demanding environments

Z-Post (Z-Section) Dig-In Posts

Construction & Performance

• Z‑Posts are made from galvanised steel sheet folded into a Z‑profile. This design is intentionally lightweight and sacrificial, allowing deformation to absorb energy on impact
• Rather than halting a vehicle instantly, Z‑Posts crumple or collapse, reducing both force and damage to the vehicle and infrastructure

Installation & Use Cases

• Suited to low‑risk areas such as pedestrian buffers, car park demarcations, light traffic zones, or pathway segregation
• Installation involves embedding into soft ground without a concrete base. Common in staff car parks, cycle routes, and pedestrian interfaces

Advantages

• More cost-effective than RSJ posts, both in material and installation.
• Effective at energy dissipation, reducing repair costs and safeguarding vehicles in minor collisions
• Galvanised to BS EN 1461, with eco‑friendly, recyclable steel construction

Considerations

• Not recommended for areas with heavy traffic, high‑speed impacts, or large vehicles—due to lower structural strength

Dig In Post Recommendations

• Choose RSJ Dig-In Posts for environments with frequent, heavy, or high-speed vehicle activity, such as logistics hubs, industrial yards, or construction sites. Their rigid structure ensures maximum protection and minimal failure under demanding conditions.
• Opt for Z-Post Dig-In Posts in lower-risk settings, such as public walkways, car parks, or internal warehouse zones, where minor impacts are more common and budget or visual considerations are important. Their energy absorption and lower cost make them ideal for such applications.

Designing or Specifying Dig In Posts

When designing or specifying Armco barrier systems, selecting the appropriate dig-in post style is critical. RSJ Dig-In Posts deliver uncompromising strength and durability for high-risk areas. In contrast, Z-Post Dig-In Posts offer a budget-friendly, energy-absorbing alternative tailored for lower-risk or pedestrian-adjacent environments.

If you’d like more detail, such as dimensions, spacing recommendations, or installation techniques then please contact our engineering team