PIC Pavement Joints & Longitudinal Seam Construction

Question 1

When placing HMA adjacent to a cold longitudinal joint, what is the recommended overlap of the new mat over the cold edge before rolling begins?

Accepted Answer

1 to 3 in (25 to 75 mm)

Answer

A 1 to 3 inch overlap allows the roller to press the hot mix back flush with the joint line, sealing the seam and improving density at the edge.

Question 2

A longitudinal 'cold' joint is formed when:

Accepted Answer

The previously placed lane has cooled beyond its compaction temperature range before the adjacent lane is placed

Answer

Once the existing lane cools below the minimum rolling temperature, it can no longer be compacted together with the new lane, classifying it as a cold joint requiring special preparation.

Question 3

Which paving method best eliminates cold longitudinal joints on multi-lane projects?

Accepted Answer

Echelon (abreast) paving with two or more pavers

Answer

In echelon paving, adjacent lanes are placed simultaneously so both mats remain hot at the joint, allowing them to be compacted together for improved density and bond.

Question 4

During breakdown rolling at a longitudinal cold joint, the roller drum should be positioned with approximately how much of its width on the cold previously compacted lane?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 6 inches (150 mm) on the cold lane, with the remainder on the hot lane

Answer

Placing about 6 inches of the drum on the cold lane and the rest on the hot lane compacts the new material toward the joint without displacing the set pavement.

Question 5

Why is it undesirable to place longitudinal joints beneath vehicle wheel paths?

Accepted Answer

Repeated wheel loading accelerates joint cracking and water infiltration at the seam

Answer

Wheel paths subject joints to high cyclic stresses and water infiltration, which accelerate raveling and longitudinal cracking at the seam over time.

(PIC) Paving Inspector Certification Practice Test

(PIC) Paving Inspector Certification Practice Test

PIC Pavement Joints & Longitudinal Seam Construction