Choosing the Right Traffic Cones: Safety Features, Materials, and Innovations

Traffic cones, also known as road or orange cones, are essential for road safety, guiding drivers, protecting workers, and preventing accidents. However, not all traffic cones are created equal, and choosing the right type is vital to ensure durability, visibility, and longevity.

In this guide, the expert road safety equipment suppliers at Armco Superlite outline the key factors to consider before purchasing traffic cones.

4 Factors to Consider When Purchasing Traffic Cones

When selecting traffic cones, it is important to evaluate their safety features, material strength, stability, and innovative designs to ensure they meet your specific needs.traffic Cones

  1. Safety Features

Traffic cones must be easily noticed in different environments and weather conditions to ensure they are visible to drivers and other road users. Below are some critical safety features to keep in mind:

  • Reflective Stripes: One important feature to look for is reflectivity. Cones with reflective bands are significantly more visible in low-light conditions. Reflective materials like PVC ensure high visibility even in poor weather conditions such as rain or fog.
  • Bright Colour: Orange is the most common colour for road cones because it is highly visible and immediately recognisable as a potential safety hazard. Brightness and consistent colouring ensure the cones stand out on busy roads or in construction zones.
  • Twenty-Four-Hour Visibility: Most cones are manufactured using fluorescent orange PVC, which is highly visible in daylight. When paired with reflective bands, these cones ensure maximum safety by remaining noticeable throughout the day and night.

  1. Durability and Material Strength

Cones used in busy areas or for long-term projects should be able to withstand tough conditions, including heavy traffic, rough handling, and harsh weather. Consider the following materials for maximum longevity:

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC is a durable and flexible material commonly used for traffic cones. It offers excellent resistance to impact and abrasion, even reshaping itself after collisions. This makes PVC ideal for cones exposed to heavy traffic. Additionally, PVC is UV-resistant, preventing fading when exposed to intense sunlight for long periods.
  • Rubber: Some traffic cones are made from rubber, which provides flexibility and added weight for improved stability. Rubber cones are less likely to be knocked over by wind or vehicles and offer resilience during heavy-duty use.
  • Recycled Materials: Many manufacturers now produce traffic cones from recycled plastics and other sustainable materials. These cones maintain the durability of traditional materials but have a smaller environmental footprint.

  1. Stability and Weight Considerations

Cones that are easily knocked over fail to provide proper guidance to road users or effectively block off dangerous areas. Look for the following features to maximise stability:

  • Weighted Bases: Road cones with weighted bases are typically more stable and less likely to be blown over by wind or moved by passing vehicles. This makes them ideal for high-wind areas or busy roads. Weighted cones are also less likely to roll away, ensuring they remain in position longer.
  • Flexibility: High-quality traffic cones are designed to be flexible, bending rather than breaking when struck. This feature enhances safety by reducing damage to vehicles and increases the cone’s longevity.
  • Stackability: Stackable cones are more convenient for transportation and storage. This is especially useful for businesses managing large quantities for multiple projects or frequently relocating construction sites.

  1. Innovations in Traffic Cones

As technology advances, so do the features of traffic cones. Manufacturers are continually innovating to improve their functionality and visibility. Here are some emerging technologies to consider:

  • IoT and Smart Technology: Traffic cones equipped with IoT capabilities can connect to central traffic control systems for better monitoring and management.
  • Automated Incident Detection: Intelligent cones that can detect short-term traffic incidents are becoming increasingly popular.
  • Foldable Cones: Foldable, ultra-visible cones are ideal for short-term emergencies due to their portability and ease of storage.
  • Robotic Deployment Systems: Robotic machines that deploy and retrieve cones are an innovation designed to increase efficiency and safety during traffic management.

Partner with the Best in Road Safety Equipment Solutions

At Armco Superlite, we are the leading manufacturer, supplier, and distributor of superior-quality road safety equipment in southern Africa. Our heavy-based traffic cones are made from premium PVC, with UV-resistant inks used to ensure they remain durable in the harshest climates and traffic conditions.

Consult with us today for expert advice, informed recommendations, and exceptional service.