Are you aware of the difference between hot mix and cold mix asphalt? Understanding the distinction between these two types of asphalt can help you make an informed decision when it comes to your paving needs. Don’t miss out on the advantages of either type. Learn all about it today!
Asphalt is a black, sticky substance that is primarily used for paving roads and other flat surfaces. It is composed of a mixture of stone, sand, and bitumen, which is a kind of petroleum product. The durability and weather resistance of asphalt makes it an excellent paving material.
There are two different types of asphalt available: cold mix and hot mix asphalt. Knowing the differences between these materials can help you make the right decision for your project if you need to use asphalt.
Hot mix and cold mix asphalt differ in two ways:
The type of bitumen binder and the production process.
Hot mix asphalt uses paving grade bitumen binder, which can be of different penetration grade or viscosity grades and is produced in the factory. On the other hand, cold mix asphalt uses liquid bitumen and can be produced on the project site or in mobile cold asphalt mixing plants.
Production Process of Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot mix asphalt is produced by mixing granulated and crushed aggregates with hot bitumen at temperatures ranging from 105 to 163°C in a factory. The process requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the resulting mixture is of the correct consistency and meets the required quality standards.
To fill the void space in the asphalt mixture, filler is added. The resulting mixture is then spread on the desired surface.
Pure bitumen is used in the production of hot asphalt, which is prepared from direct petroleum distillation. Different grades of bitumen penetration or viscosity grades are used in hot mix asphalt. These types of bitumen should be homogeneous and free of water.
Benefits of Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot mix asphalt can offer you several advantages for your project, such as being strong and durable. This type of asphalt is stronger than cold mix asphalt because the aggregate is heated before being mixed with the bitumen. The heat makes the material more pliable, enabling it to adhere better to the surface. Additionally, hot mix asphalt has a longer shelf life than cold patch asphalt, meaning that you can store it for an extended period without it hardening. This is particularly beneficial when working on large projects that require some time to complete. You can store the material until you’re ready to use it, without worrying about it hardening beforehand.
Production Process of Cold Mix Asphalt
Cold asphalt is created by mixing aggregates with either emulsion bitumen or cutback bitumen at room temperature. The mixture is then spread at the same temperature on the surface.
When using bitumen emulsion, the aggregates can be wet and mixed with bitumen. On the other hand, when using cutback bitumen, the aggregates must be dried at room temperature or heated before mixing.
In some types of cold asphalt, the bitumen may be heated before mixing, depending on the materials being used.
In most cases, two types of cutback bitumen, MC 3000 and SC 3000, are used in cold asphalt.
Benefits of Cold Mix Asphalt
Using cold mix asphalt for your project has several benefits. Firstly, it is more affordable compared to hot mix asphalt since it doesn’t require the use of heavy equipment. You can apply it straight from the bag using basic tools and manpower.
Secondly, cold mix asphalt is incredibly easy to use. You can pour it into any pothole or crack that needs repair, level it off with a shovel, and wait for it to dry and harden. You don’t need to be a professional to use it, anyone can do it as long as they have the right tools and some training.
Thirdly, you don’t need to heat the cold mix asphalt, making it safer to work with since you don’t have to use any dangerous equipment that uses fire or flames. This also saves you time since you don’t have to wait for the material to heat up before you can start working with it.
In summary, using cold patch asphalt for your project is a cost-effective, easy-to-use, and safe option that can save you time and money.
Prepared by Rumays specialists group.