Optimising reinstatement with a new tool

A new app is now available to optimise road reinstatement works
March 10, 2021 Read time: 1 min
A new app is available for checking air voids in reinstated road surfaces

It has been developed by regional water firm United Utilities to improve the job of laying asphalt after roads have been dug up to carry out repairs.

The app addresses the tricky task of measuring and controlling the amount of air contained within the final reinstatement.

According to United Utilities, most technical elements of highway reinstatement can be controlled by skilled operatives, except air void levels. This is an area that is almost impossible to control and measure while teams are working onsite and instead, it is usually tested retrospectively after the asphalt has been laid, through sampling and testing. But this approach is time consuming and inefficient.

The firm developed the easy-to-use app for teams to use during reinstatement. After answering a series of questions and following specific instructions, the tool calculates the air voids in the asphalt that has been laid.

Results from initial two months' usage showed teams using the app achieved 100% compliance from their work and much improved air void levels.

Related Content

  • Advances in bitumen technology: new applications
    February 16, 2022
    This month, we look at four very different pavement technologies in four very different applications
    Read More
  • Airport repaving project using machine control
    April 24, 2023
    Luxembourg Airport, located in Findel, is handling a growing number of passenger as well as cargo flights. However, to meet international standards the airport’s runway, measuring 4,000m long x 60m wide, was in need of complete renovation and repair
    Read More
  • Environmental solutions for tomorrow's roads
    August 2, 2012
    Leading the change, IRF organises its 2nd Conference on Roads & Environment in Geneva, Switzerland on 10-11 November 2008 An opinion poll in the UK at the end of June showed that more people think their government should first try to tackle environmental issues before trying to tackle global economic problems. Two-thirds of people were even in favour of green taxes, either now or when economic conditions improve. The environment remains high on the agenda in most countries, including in those where public o
    Read More
  • Australian firm uses recycled feed material for asphalt
    August 14, 2015
    Innovations in asphalt plant technology will help boost the use of recycled asphalt. Mike Woof writes. An Ammann asphalt plant located in Australia has been successful in using a high percentage of recycled feed materials. The Australian producer Downer recently created and laid an asphalt mix consisting of 99% recycled materials, including feed from somewhat unusual sources. The feed included toner from printer cartridges, tyres and glass and this is thought to be the first time a mix has been produced usi
    Read More

Highlighted Content