Project Description
Purpose of review for recent trials held between November 2011 and June 2013 using EZ Street Ambient® asphalt with others as an alternative to standard bitumen cold mix to repair potholes. Project description seeks the approval from Sprayline Road Services SLT to use premium cold mixes as the preferred method of temporary repairing potholes by demonstrating that premium cold mixes offer better whole of life value for money even though the material costs is more expensive.
Challenges
Up until the recent trials standard bitumen cold mixes were used to carry out temporary pothole repairs. These repairs needed to be maintained until final repairs can be completed, as these repairs general only lasted 2 months. Depending on the severity of the individual pothole and available resources and budgets, final repairs generally takes up to 2 years before being completed, requiring temporary repairs to be maintained during this period.
Investigations
Starting in November 2011 Sprayline Road Services Metro South East and South Western have been conducting trials of various cold mixes. Initial trials were based on samples supplied by manufacturers of their products. These samples were used to repair random potholes on the network and the location recorded and checked weekly for 6 month period. Products extended to premium grade through to General Cold Mix. After reviewing by two 6 month intervals comparison showed that after 12 months from the 600 potholes repaired premium grade had completed in accordance with manufactures specification. When used correctly these trials have shown that premium cold mixes will outperform standard bitumen by at least 10 months.
Cost Comparison Analysis
| Worst Case | Best Case | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visits | Costs | Visits | Costs | |
| 20 kg packets | 3 | $ 1,680 | 2 | $ 1,120 |
| 1 to 3 tonne bags | 3 | $ 1,230 | 2 | $ 820 |
| 5 tonne bags | 3 | $ 1,050 | 2 | $ 700 |
| Bulk | 3 | $ 942 | 2 | $ 614 |
| *Standard coldmix bulk | 13 | $ 3,263 | 2 | $ 1,255 |
Outcomes of the EZ Street® Ambient® Asphalt Trials
- Less Visits
- Economic Benefits and Cost Saving
- Longer lasting repairs