PIC Inspection Standards & Quality Control 3

Question 1

What is the acceptable range for asphalt content deviation from the JMF target under most AASHTO/state DOT specifications?

Accepted Answer

±0.5%

Answer

Most state DOT specifications allow asphalt binder content to deviate no more than ±0.5% from the JMF target during plant production.

Question 2

When inspecting a longitudinal joint between two adjacent HMA lanes, which condition is most indicative of a quality joint?

Accepted Answer

Density matching the adjacent mat within specification

Answer

A quality longitudinal joint is characterized by density comparable to the adjacent mat, ensuring structural continuity and resistance to moisture infiltration.

Question 3

Under ASTM D3549, what is the standard method for measuring the thickness of bituminous pavement cores?

Accepted Answer

Digital caliper measurement at three equidistant points averaged

Answer

ASTM D3549 specifies that core thickness be measured with a caliper at three equidistant points around the core perimeter and the values averaged.

Question 4

A contractor claims a failing density lot should be accepted based on individual test results rather than the lot average. Which principle of statistical quality control does the inspector cite to refute this?

Accepted Answer

Lot-by-lot acceptance testing

Answer

Lot-by-lot acceptance testing evaluates the lot as a whole using the mean of sample results, not individual outlier tests, to determine acceptance or rejection.

Question 5

Which in-place permeability test method is used to assess the potential for water infiltration through a completed asphalt pavement surface?

Accepted Answer

Florida field permeameter test

Answer

The Florida field permeameter measures the rate of water infiltration through a compacted asphalt surface to evaluate permeability and potential for moisture damage.

(PIC) Paving Inspector Certification Practice Test

(PIC) Paving Inspector Certification Practice Test

PIC Inspection Standards & Quality Control 3