Evaluation of Timber Blocks for Temporary Inserts in Concrete Patching

摘要

The purpose of this final report is to evaluate the use of timber blocks as211u001etemporary inserts for concrete patches. Timber blocks are made of creosoted 211u001erailroad switch ties with an industrial grade plywood covering. A skid resistance 211u001ematerial also is applied to the surface for safety. These platforms primarily are 211u001eused for patching on heavily traveled highways, when construction takes place 211u001eovernight and it is necessary to reopen the highway to motorists during the day. 211u001ePreviously in this situation, a very limited number of patches could be completed 211u001ebecause of the existing concrete had to be saw cut, removed, doweled, and the new 211u001econcrete had to be poured and cured in one shift, allowing no additional work to 211u001ebe done after pouring. The use of timber blocks allows the Contractor to continue 211u001eworking after the concrete pour. While waiting for the concrete to cure, 211u001eadditional patches can be excavated and filled with the temporary timber block 211u001einserts. The timber blocks withstand the heavy traffic while the roadway is open, 211u001ecan be removed quickly at the start of the next construction shift, and can be 211u001ereplaced by the permanent concrete patches. Productivity is increased with the 211u001euse of timber blocks. The timber block inserts are recommended for further use by 211u001ethe department.