Infrared technology enables us to repair potholes and asphalt defects quickly and effectively, often in as little as 15 minutes per repair. This method involves blending fresh asphalt with the existing asphalt using infrared heating, resulting in a seamless and joint-free integral patch. The infrared machine heats the existing asphalt to a depth of approximately two inches without oxidizing or burning it. The machine also includes chambers that can store up to four tonnes of fresh bituminous materials at a constant temperature, making the process efficient and costeffective.
The outcome of using infrared technology for pothole repairs is a seamless and cosmetically appealing finish, which is highly desired. The absence of seams means no cracks for water to infiltrate, reducing damage caused by freezing and thawing cycles.
• The area is thoroughly swept and dried.
• The infrared heater is positioned over the area, heating it to approximately 350 degrees for five to ten minutes.
• The heater is then removed, and the softened asphalt is lightly raked.
• New asphalt is added to the mix, leveled to the desired elevation and slope.
• A vibrating roller or compactor is used to flatten and fuse the asphalt with the existing surface.
Before the introduction of infrared technology for pothole repairs, a method known as “cut and patch” was commonly employed. As the name suggests, this method involved cutting out the damaged portion of asphalt and replacing it with new asphalt. While it served as a short-term fix, it proved less effective in the long run. The newer patches were visually noticeable and unappealing. More importantly, moisture could seep into the joints between the old and new surfaces. With continuous freezing and thawing, these cracks would worsen over time, necessitating further repairs. Although the cut and patch method may have appeared costeffective initially, it ultimately incurred higher expenses in terms of time and money.
Additionally, the cut and patch technique was less sustainable. It required more manual labor, often conducted in the middle of busy roads, leading to increased risks and disruptions for motorists. Multiple road closures or diversions caused frustration and hindered efforts to reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution.
Given the multitude of advantages that infrared technology offers over the cut and patch technique, it is clear why we have embraced this method at 88Asphalt.
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