NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR ASPHALT COMPACTION: A CONTRACTOR'S VIEW AND EXPERIENCE

摘要

Advancements in the field of asphalt paving have focused almost entirely on the mix itself with equipment advancements nearly non-existent. Furthermore, experience is held in the highest regard and there is an extremely high resistance to change. It is widely known that current compaction methods produce defects during construction. The phenomenon of hairline cracks often observed on the surface of finished asphalt mats is a well-known example. Over the past 25 years, research has shown that such defects in the asphalt layer are responsible for premature failure of our roads. This research has led the development of a new asphalt compactor "AMIR." This paper discusses the historical development of conventional compaction equipment including their advantages and limitations, as well as their contribution to the phenomenon of hairline checking. The paper also presents experience gained while working with the AMIR and explores the potential of using it to produce finished pavements with no defects, while meeting the required specifications, with fewer rollers, and with less number of passes. In particular, the AMIR offers a crack-free surface with tighter texture and reduced permeability, along with improved edge and centerline joint compaction.