| Fixed, surface-mounted | Carbon steel tube or fabricated steel | Hot-dip galvanizing; optional powder coating over the galvanized layer | About 100–200 mm outside diameter; height selected for the site | Parking bays, walkways, storefront edges, and light vehicle guidance | Usually unrated for vehicle impact unless the complete installation has been tested | Check base plate and anchor specifications, substrate condition, corrosion protection, and whether the intended impact performance is documented. |
| Fixed, embedded | Carbon steel tube, often with a below-ground section or concrete foundation | Hot-dip galvanizing; optional durable exterior coating for visibility or site appearance | About 100–200 mm outside diameter; above-ground height and embedment depend on the design | Perimeter protection and vehicle access control where excavation is possible | No inherent crash rating; impact performance depends on the bollard, foundation, soil, and installation | Confirm foundation design, drainage, underground utilities, finished height, and whether the claimed rating covers the installed system. |
| Removable, socket-mounted | Carbon steel post with a ground socket and locking or retention mechanism | Hot-dip galvanized steel; optional powder-coated finish | Commonly around 100–150 mm outside diameter; height varies by application | Occasional vehicle access through pedestrian areas, service lanes, or emergency routes | Typically unrated unless the specific post-and-socket assembly has a published impact test | Compare socket cover, locking method, removal effort, water and debris management, and the security of the post when installed. |
| Retractable or rising bollard | Steel rising section with a below-ground housing; drive components vary by model | Coated or galvanized steel housing and post; stainless-steel components may be used in exposed areas | Above-ground height and post diameter vary substantially by system | Controlled vehicle entrances requiring regular opening and closing | Check for a test report for the exact model and installation; powered operation alone is not a security rating | Review duty cycle, operating speed, emergency lowering, power-loss behavior, drainage, maintenance access, and foundation requirements. |
| Fixed stainless-steel bollard | Stainless steel, commonly grade 304 or 316 | Brushed or polished finish; appropriate cleaning and passivation may be specified | Commonly around 100–200 mm outside diameter; height varies | Architectural settings and sites where appearance and corrosion resistance are priorities | Material grade does not establish an impact rating; request system-level test evidence if vehicle resistance is required | Match the stainless grade to the exposure: 316 is generally more suitable than 304 for chloride-rich marine environments, but detailing and maintenance still matter. |
| Crash-tested fixed bollard system | Engineered steel bollard and specified foundation or installation assembly | Finish is project-specific; corrosion protection must not compromise tested construction | Use the exact dimensions and installation configuration stated in the test documentation | Sites with a defined hostile-vehicle mitigation or vehicle-impact requirement | Compare applicable test standards such as ASTM F2656/F2656M, IWA 14-1, or PAS 68, including the exact test classification and penetration result | Verify the full test report, vehicle and test conditions, penetration measurement, foundation details, spacing, ground conditions, and any limitations on installation. |