Paving contractors likely have heard about cold in-place recycling (CIR). If so, you know that it’s being used in a large number of reclamation projects. What you may not know, however, is why.
The quick and easy answer is that this process offers a number of advantages over other methods of restoring asphalt surfaces. Read on to learn a bit more about this procedure and why it’s used so often.
What Is Cold In-Place Recycling?
Cold in-place recycling involves an array of equipment that functions like a rolling processing plant or train.
First, a milling machine grinds the top two-to-five inches of asphalt off of the pavement, combining the millings with an asphalt emulsion, to give it enhanced strength. Then the new mixture is then laid onto the exposed substrate with a high-density paver to be rolled & smoothed out by a roller. The final step often includes the application of a thin hot mix surface or slurry pavement as a protective surface wearing course.
What Are the Benefits of Cold In-Place Recycling?
When compared to traditional methods of rehabilitating damaged pavements, there are a lot of advantages to choosing cold in-place recycling. First and foremost, the results are a new, strong, improved roadway surface without cracking and rutting that utilizes the existing roadway by recycling it in place
Additionally, because it recycles a significant amount of the existing asphalt, the process helps reduce the number of materials required for the job. This means it is less expensive overall, and cuts the project schedule down considerably reducing the impact on local traffic. Plus, cold in-place recycling is more eco-friendly because it doesn’t require additional heat to be generated during the procedure; thus, it requires less energy consumption.
Rock Solid Stabilization & Reclamation is a leading provider of CIR capabilities for contractors across the country. To learn more about everything we have to offer and how we can help your next project, reach out and talk to us today.