NU-CABLE High Tension

NU-CABLE High Tension Barrier System


The NU-CABLE High Tension Cable Barrier System offers a unique combination of TL-3 and TL-4 crash-test proven protection and visual appeal in both median and right-side guide rail applications. Plus the added bonus of a 50 to 75% cost saving versus traditional W-beam and concrete barriers, and up to 20% savings over other high-tension cable systems.

System features include:

  • Deflection ranges of 5.25’ to 9.81’. Deflection can be varied to meet road/terrain requirements.
  • Available in both 3-cable (TL-) and 4-cable (TL-4) designs.
  • Easy to maintain and repair – lower installation costs are augmented by continuing savings.
  • Utilizes strong (up to 100 KSI yield strength) yet economical 4-lb. or 5-lb. Nucor Marion Steel RIB-BAK U-channel breakaway steel posts, galvanized for long life.
  • Posts can be driven in soil, installed in direct-driven steel socketed foundations, or installed in concrete socket foundations.
  • Cables and posts attached with unique locking hook bolts that absorb energy during crashes.
  • Utilizes cost-effective standard ¾” steel cables, tensioned up to 5,600 lbs. (25KN). Cables are tensioned on site and tension can be customized by installers to meet site needs.
  • NCHRP 350-approved system that tested superior in deflection tests to competitive cable system that uses plastic inserts instead of hook bolts.
  • Anchored at both ends into FHWA approved Cable Release Posts.
  • Visually appealing see-through system allows for better driver visibility and snow pass through.
  • 50 to 75% cost saving versus traditional W-beam and concrete barriers.
  • Can be repaired after being hit in as quickly as 30 minutes.
  • Post Spacing: 6.6′ to 20′.

NU-CABLE TL-3 NU-CABLE TL-4
RIB-BAK U-Channel 4 or 5 lb./ft. Nucor Grade SP-80 4 lb./ft. Nucor Grade SP-80
Top Cable Height 29 1/2” 41”
Number of Cables 3 or 4 4
NCHRP 350 Tested TL-3 Compliant TL-4 Compliant
Foundation Type Direct Drive, Concrete Socketed or Direct Drive Steel Socket Concrete Socketed or Direct Drive Steel Socket
Slopes Up to 6:1 4:1

The Nucor® and Nucor Steel Marion, Inc.® name and logos, RIB-BAK®, LAP-SPLICE®, SLIP-SAFE®, SLIP-SAFE SUPREME®, NU-GUARD®, NU-CABLE®,NU-TEN® and It's Our Nature® are registered trademarks of Nucor Corporation. Powder-Shell™ is a trademark of Nucor Corporation.