Asphalt Paving Inspection Flashcards

What is the purpose of 'string lining' or 'joint matching' at a longitudinal joint?

Answer: To ensure the new mat is placed flush with the existing lane edge

At longitudinal joints, the new mat must be placed so that the joint is flush with or slightly above the adjacent lane to ensure a tight, well-sealed joint after compaction.

What does 'Level of Service' or 'LOS' refer to in FDOT asphalt density acceptance?

Answer: The statistical acceptance procedure used to evaluate lot density results

FDOT uses a Level of Service acceptance procedure where density test results are statistically evaluated against specification limits to determine acceptance and applicable pay factors.

What is 'rutting' in asphalt pavement and what causes it?

Answer: Permanent deformation (channeling) in wheel paths caused by traffic loading and inadequate mix stability

Rutting is permanent deformation forming channels in the wheel paths, typically caused by inadequate asphalt mix stability, excessive mix temperatures, or heavy traffic loads.

What does 'SP-9.5' or 'SP-12.5' designate in FDOT Superpave mix naming?

Answer: The nominal maximum aggregate size in millimeters

The number in FDOT Superpave mix designations (SP-9.5, SP-12.5, SP-19.0, SP-25.0) refers to the nominal maximum aggregate size in millimeters.

What is the inspector's responsibility when a truck arrives at the paver with mix that is outside the specified temperature range?

Answer: Reject the load and document it on the daily report

Loads with mix temperature outside the specified range must be rejected and not incorporated into the work; the inspector must document the rejection on the daily report.

What is 'bleeding' or 'flushing' in an asphalt pavement?

Answer: Excess asphalt binder migrating to the pavement surface

Bleeding is a distress mode where excess asphalt binder migrates to the pavement surface, creating a shiny, sticky film that reduces skid resistance.