With a solid reputation and a long history of producing high-quality asphalt materials, Walbec continues to lead the industry in the use of high-quality aggregates, binders, and additives while incorporating advanced technologies to improve efficiency and consistency. As an environmentally responsible producer, Walbec plants adhere to eco-friendly manufacturing processes and recycling initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint and the impact on the environment.
The different types of asphalt mixes are identified by the temperature the product is mixed and applied. Types include hot mix asphalt (HMA), cold mix asphalt (CMA), and warm mix asphalt (WMA). Walbec’s hot mix asphalt (HMA), consisting of a predetermined combination of aggregate and liquid asphalt cement, is one of our main products. The asphalt mix design and formulation process occur at one of our Wisconsin, Michigan, or Illinois AASHTO (American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials) accredited laboratories. Every mixture meets or exceeds special customer requirements and specifications. Through sampling and quality control testing, these labs determine the proper type, size, shape, and blend of aggregates and liquid asphalt to mix.
Hot mix asphalt is commonly used in road construction and maintenance, including highway surfaces, parking lots, and other areas. It consists of aggregates such as crushed stone, sands, and recycled asphaltic materials combined with an asphalt binder that acts as an adhesive. HMA is produced at high temperatures where aggregates are heated to a specific temperature, typically between 150 to 170 degrees Celsius (300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit), to remove moisture and ensure better adhesion with the asphalt binder.
Generally produced in large quantities, HMA is then delivered to the hopper of an asphalt paving machine on the job. The asphalt is then leveled with a paver and compacted to a specified density with rollers. Walbec’s asphalt mixtures are uniquely designed and produced at our plants, and in many cases with aggregates minded and produced in-house, to ensure a high-quality end product for customers.
Cold mix asphalt (CMA) is a mixture of aggregates such as crushed stone, gravel, sand, asphalt cement, and other additives used in road construction and repairs. Unlike traditional hot mix asphalt (HMA), CMA is mixed and applied at low temperatures, typically between 100-120 degrees Fahrenheit, making it useful when heating the asphalt may not be practical or specialized equipment is unavailable.
Another asphalt option for road construction and maintenance projects is warm mix asphalt or WMA. Warm mix asphalt is produced and placed at lower temperatures, approximately 100 to 140 degrees Celsius (212-284 degrees Fahrenheit). The temperature is dependent upon the exact WMA technology used. The lower production temperatures of WMA offer several benefits, including reduced energy consumption, lower emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, and improved workability during construction.
In many situations, these benefits make WMA a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional HMA. Different additives and technologies, such as foaming agents, waxes, organic additives, and water-based technologies, can achieve these lower temperatures. Each technology may have slightly different temperature requirements, so following the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific WMA product is essential.
Contact a Walbec asphalt specialist today to learn how our high-quality materials and paving services can benefit your project.
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