24 Feb Temperature Tracking Is the Key to Successful Asphalt Paving: Insights from the Asphalt Paving Experts in St. Augustine, Florida
Asphalt pavements are incredibly durable, and they can withstand thousands of pounds of weight when installed correctly. Sure, external hazards can take a toll on paved roads, parking lots, highways, and walkways. However, there is something you can do to make sure your paved surfaces thrive for as long as possible: temperature tracking. Base, air, and temperature tracking can go a long way in helping you ensure the quality an asphalt surface in St. Augustine, Florida.
Temperature Tracking
In order to guarantee the longevity of your newly paved surfaces, it’s essential to keep track of the ambient, base, and hot mixed asphalt temperatures. Usually, the hot mix asphalt is manufactured at a temperature between 270°F and 325°F. However, it can lose anywhere between 5°F and 25°F during the installation process. The mix’s temperature on the base determines the necessary compaction time once it passes through the laydown machine. If the air and base temperatures are significantly cooler, the pavement will solidify quickly, making it challenging to obtain the required compacted density. Besides, thin layers cool faster than thicker ones, so if the ambient or base temperatures aren’t as desired, the pavement will soon fall apart. The surface would become rocky and cracked in just a short period of time, reducing its lifespan and accelerating the deterioration process.
Ambient Temperature
Air temperature, or ambient temperature, is the most standard measurement. In most cases, asphalt paving jobs require temperatures of around 50°F or higher while the asphalt is being installed. If there are fierce winds, the mix will cool faster, affecting the pavement’s final look and strength.
Ground Temperature
The ground temperature, or base temperature, is also a determining factor for how well the pavement will be installed. Ground temperature can be considerably lower than the atmospheric conditions, and it can be monitored with an infrared thermometer. This is especially true during the winter months, or on a generally cooler time of the day. Thus, it’s essential to keep track of this throughout the process, as anything below 50°F can negatively affect the outcome.
Mix Temperature
The final step is to measure the mix’s temperature, which should remain somewhere between 220°F and 290°F. If the mix temperature falls below 180°F before the final compaction, the surface will become too stiff. Factors such as the ambient temperature, ground temperature, thickness of the layers, and wind speed also determine how quickly or slowly the mix will cool.
The Importance of Temperature
The sole reason why ambient, ground, and mix temperatures are crucial is that they can be used to help you achieve sufficient compaction, which will lead to an ideal result. If the temperature isn’t well monitored, the pavement might not last as long or provide an attractive, smooth finish. Furthermore, rolling should also be carried out rapidly with appropriate and properly maintained equipment.
Contact the Certified Asphalt Paving Experts in St. Augustine, Florida
Asphalt paving is a highly specialized job that requires state of the art machinery with a crew that’s experienced and proficient. At All Asphalt Services, we have the expertise you need. We routinely offer a full range of pavement-related services to various industries throughout Florida, particularly in the St. Augustine area. We have a strong reputation, excellent references, and we are committed to providing superior quality.
If you are located anywhere in or around St. Augustine, Florida, we’re the asphalt paving contractor you can trust. For further information on how the temperature and timing could impact your asphalt paving job, or if you would like to receive a free quote, fill out this online form and our representatives will get back to you ASAP.
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