ASTM E1709-16(2022) PDF
Standard Test Method for Measurement of Retroreflective Signs Using a Portable Retroreflectometer at a 0.2 Degree Observation Angle
Standard Test Method for Measurement of Retroreflective Signs Using a Portable Retroreflectometer at a 0.2 Degree Observation Angle
- Статус документа:
- Действующий
- Формат:
- Электронный (PDF)
- Количество страниц:
- 7
- Дата публикации:
- 1 февраля 2022 г.
- Издание:
- E1709
- ICS:
- 17.180.20
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Measurements made by this test method are related to the night time brightness of retroreflective traffic signs approximately facing the driver of a mid-sized automobile equipped with tungsten filament headlights at about 200 m distance. 5.2 Retroreflective material used on traffic signs degrades with time and requires periodic measurement to ensure that the performance of the retroflection provides adequate safety to the driver. 5.3 The quality of the sign as to material used, age, and wear pattern will have an effect on the coefficient of retroreflection. These conditions need to be observed and noted by the user. 5.4 This test method is not intended for use for the measurement of signs when the instrument entrance and observation angles differ from those specified herein. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers measurement of the retroreflective properties of sign materials such as traffic signs and symbols (vertical surfaces) using a portable retroreflectometer that can be used in the field. The portable retroreflectometer is a hand-held instrument with a defined standard geometry that can be placed in contact with sign material to measure the retroreflection in a standard geometry. The measurements can be compared to minimum requirements to determine the need for replacement. Entrance and observation angles specified in this test method are those used currently in the United States and may differ from the angles used elsewhere in the world. 1.2 This test method is intended to be used for the field measurement of traffic signs but may be used to measure the performance of materials before placing the sign in the field or before placing the sign material on the sign face. 1.3 This test method covers measurements at a 0.2 degree observation angle. See Test Method E2540 for measurements at a 0.5 degree observation angle. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Abstract
Overview
ASTM E1709-16(2022), Standard Test Method for Measurement of Retroreflective Signs Using a Portable Retroreflectometer at a 0.2 Degree Observation Angle, is a key international standard developed by ASTM International. This method outlines procedures for field and laboratory measurement of the retroreflective performance of vertical sign materials such as traffic signs and symbols. The standard is especially significant in ensuring the night-time visibility and safety effectiveness of traffic signage by establishing a systematic approach for measuring the brightness of retroreflective materials using a handheld, portable retroreflectometer.
Designed to help maintain safety on roadways, this standard ensures that retroreflective traffic signs provide adequate performance over time. Regular measurement and comparison to minimum requirements support authorities in timely replacement and maintenance of such signs, thereby supporting driver visibility and safety.
Key Topics
- Retroreflective Sign Measurement: Guidance on using portable retroreflectometers to assess the retroreflective properties of traffic signs and symbols at a 0.2 degree observation angle, supporting reliable field and laboratory evaluations.
- Instrument Specifications: Requirements for portable retroreflectometers, including contact measurement geometry, standardized calibration procedures, and detection sensitivities.
- Measurement Geometry: Detailed definitions of entrance and observation angles, as well as distinctions for point and annular instrument apertures.
- Material Degradation and Safety: Emphasis on periodic measurement due to the degradation of retroreflective material over time, ensuring consistency with performance and safety standards.
- Reporting and Analysis: Procedures to record results for each sign or material, and compare average retroreflective values against agency-specified minimums for possible replacement.
- Limitations: Specifies that measurements are valid only when instrument angles match standard conditions, acknowledging that results may differ under other geometries or with different equipment.
Applications
ASTM E1709-16(2022) is widely applicable for:
- Traffic Sign Maintenance: Transportation authorities and contractors use this standard to regularly monitor and document the retroreflectivity of in-service road signs, ensuring ongoing visibility for night-time driving.
- Quality Assurance: Sign manufacturers and material suppliers rely on this method for quality control, measuring retroreflectivity before installation or during production.
- Compliance Assessment: Agencies assessing compliance with national or local minimum retroreflectivity requirements use this method for objective evaluation.
- Field and Laboratory Testing: The flexibility of portable retroreflectometers allows both field assessments of installed signs and laboratory analysis of new materials, supporting procurement, maintenance, and research activities.
By ensuring signs meet specific visibility criteria, this standard supports roadway safety initiatives, reduces accident risk, and helps optimize sign replacement schedules.
Related Standards
- ASTM D4956 - Specification for Retroreflective Sheeting for Traffic Control
- ASTM E2540 - Standard Test Method for Measurement of Retroreflective Signs Using a Portable Retroreflectometer at a 0.5 Degree Observation Angle
- ASTM E177 - Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
- ASTM E284 - Terminology of Appearance
- ASTM E808 - Practice for Describing Retroreflection
- ASTM E809 - Practice for Measuring Photometric Characteristics of Retroreflectors
- ASTM E810 - Test Method for Coefficient of Retroreflection of Retroreflective Sheeting Utilizing the Coplanar Geometry
Utilizing ASTM E1709-16(2022) in conjunction with these related standards enables comprehensive and standardized measurement, analysis, and documentation practices in the field of traffic safety and reflective material assessment. For more information, visit the ASTM International website.
Технические детали
- Технический комитет
- E12 - Color and Appearance
- SKU
- ASTM E1709-16(2022)
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