It is essential to understand the basics of asphalt to know its composition better. Understanding how asphalt is made is crucial to understanding how it is used and how you will be skilled in the asphalt industry.
Asphalt properties are affected by temperature, which means that asphalt is only usable within a specific range. You must measure each ingredient precisely to match the climate and type of project.
This article will discuss what asphalt and asphalt pavement is made of and explain how significant the quality is in asphalt.
What is Asphalt Pavement?
Asphalt pavement is made from asphalt. There are many layers of asphalt that contain bituminous-bound and unbound materials, and these materials act as a base to the asphalt concrete.
The aggregate particles at the lowest levels of a pavement layer are typically larger and less angular. At the surface levels, however, they are smaller and more angular. To extend pavement life, fine aggregate particles may be added to the mix.
The climate in which you will use the asphalt pavement can affect the ingredients. Asphalt made for hotter climates is more difficult to withstand, while asphalt made for colder climates is easier. Before mixing asphalt at the manufacturing plant, plant operators determine which type of asphalt they will need to make. They examine the climate and project details to measure the ingredients.
What Is Asphalt Made Of?
Asphalt is simply a sticky, viscous, semi-solid petroleum oil. Its main ingredients are aggregates and asphalt cement (binder.) Aggregates are mineral aggregates that have been processed, including crushed rock, sand, gravel, slags, and different recyclable materials.
Asphalt cement is used to bind the aggregates to create a cohesive mixture. Most often, bitumen is used as a binder. Bitumen is a highly viscous petroleum liquid, and it is a sticky, dark residue of petroleum that acts as a binder for the aggregate. It serves as the adhesive that holds the aggregate (small rocks) together to form a durable, flexible material.
Asphalt pavement is typically composed of 5% asphalt concrete and 95% aggregate.
Asphalt is usually modified at special processing facilities and mixed in small batches, and manufacturing companies may add chemicals to asphalt cement or aggregate to improve flexibility.
What Is the Importance of Quality in Asphalt?
Your paving solution’s quality is crucial. The durability of your pavement is directly related to how long it can withstand and the quality of asphalt used. Quality asphalt not only lasts longer but is also more reliable and efficient.
Quality is directly affected by the quality of aggregate materials used, and the quality management processes ensure that the correct materials are collected and processed. Asphalt paving solutions require that aggregated materials are durable and angular to resist early wear. These aggregates are subject to rigorous testing and maintained at the highest standards possible in the asphalt industry.
The best asphalt contractors keep up to date with technological advances and adhere to strict quality control procedures. It increases safety, efficiency, value, and profitability.
A-Rock Asphalt Services is constantly innovating its products and services to serve its clients better. Not only do we use high-quality asphalt, but we also ensure that our services are worthy of reinvestment and patronage. So, contact us now to learn more.