Different types of Asphalt
Asphalt aggregates are easy to mix and customize. There are hundreds of potential mixes that could be made to meet any specific asphalt need. Many asphalt contractors have their own asphalt production plants in order to better create solutions for those needs. For the most part, all mixes will fall into these four categories.
Porous Asphalt
Porous asphalt is an environmentally friendly paving solution and is an EPA best practice paving, using it for your next project can even offer your business tax benefits. The term “porous” refers to the fact that there are tiny holes in the asphalt material which provide an environmentally friendly way to manage storm water. The water travels into the ground beneath where it undergoes natural water cleansing processes.
Cold Mix Asphalt
Cold mix asphalt stays soft in cold temperatures and helps repel water, it’s mostly used for pothole repairs. The manufacturing process for this mix is fairly simple, which allows it to be crafted at almost any temperature.
Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is the designation given to asphalt mixtures that are heated and poured at temperatures between 300 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It is the most commonly used asphalt.
HMA can be classified into three categories, including dense-graded mixes, stone matrix asphalt and open grade mixes. Dense-grade mixes are categorized according to the sizes of the aggregate used and fall into two subcategories, including fine-graded and coarse-graded. Fine-graded dense-grade mixes contain a higher percentage of sand and small stones compared to its coarse-graded counterpart. This type of mix can be used to pave high-traffic roadways, interstates and highways.
Warm Mix Asphalt
Warm mix asphalt (WMA) is manufactured between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. The production of WMA uses less fossil fuels than HMA, but requires more binding materials to help with pouring and spreading at a lower temperature. WMA is also less costly to produce than HMA.
Coarse Graded Asphalt
Coarse graded asphalt is typically used as a binder or base coarse to give support for the fine-graded dense mixes that are used for surface lifts on parking lots, roads and driveways.
