Warm mix asphalt is one of the three main types of asphalt mixes. Hot mix asphalt is the traditional solution fornew pavements andlong-lasting repairs, and cold patch is for temporary fixes in the dead of winter or on extremely hot days. Warm mix asphalt could be a good candidate for asphalt paving and asphalt repairs alike. What is warm mix asphalt, anyway?
What Is Warm Mix Asphalt?
Warm mix asphalt is a type of asphalt that is manufactured at a lower temperature than hot mix asphalt is. Very briefly, organic or chemical additives or foaming techniques are used to reduce the asphalt’s viscosity so that it will be fluid enough to spread easily and evenly over the pavement. Warm mix asphalt is heated to a temperature between 212 and 302 degrees Fahrenheit, or 100 and 150 degrees Celsius.
Benefits of Warm Mix Asphalt
Lower Energy Costs
Warm mix asphalt takes less energy to produce and to use in paving. Therefore, it uses less fuel, produces less fumes, and costs less overall. While it is critical that the mix should be able to perform well, the lower financial and energy costs do make it more appealing.
Compatible with RAP
Asphalt is one of the most recycled materials on the planet. As crushed rocks, asphalt performs well over and over for countless years as pavement. You can save even more with warm mix asphalt when it incorporates recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) into the mix. Its compatibility with RAP also makes it more renewable.
Easier Working Conditions
Warm mix asphalt, also known as WMA, produces less fumes when pavers install it. This quality makes working conditions safer or at the very least more comfortable, especially if the project is located in a tunnel, parking garage, or another somewhat enclosed area.
Faster Curing Time
Because WMA does not need to be as hot as hot mix asphalt during its installation, it will take less time for it to cool down and cure. If you need to limithow long a parking lot or road is closed off, then warm mix asphalt could be a good solution.
Great Performance
Warm mix asphalt can perform as well or even better than traditional asphalt. The question is, is it the best kind for your paving project? The experts at Tri-State Paving can help you in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware!
Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving
Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned asphalt pavement company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you turn your backyard into the perfect retreat quickly and affordably. Our experts will work with you to find a design and layout for the outdoor kitchen and dining area that you’re sure to love for years and years to come.
Our area numbers are:
West Chester: 610.563.9456
Oxford: 610.932.3566
Delaware: 302.757.4100
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Tags: warm mix asphalt, warm mix benefits, WMA