In recent years, climate concerns have forced federal and state governments to put new roads on hold.
Less budget is being allocated to road building at all levels. Instead, districts are being encouraged to maintain and upgrade existing highways, byways, and country thoroughfares.
That’s where full depth reclamation (FDR) comes in. This technique refreshes existing driving surfaces, ensuring they’re safe for drivers and will last long into the future. Reclaiming roads, it seems, is the way of the future.
But what exactly does this construction technique entail? Read on to find out.
Full Depth Reclamation: A Definition
FDR is a method of roadway rehabilitation. The existing road surface is pulverized in place by heavy machinery and turned into a base layer. The roadway is then rebuilt on top of this base layer.
Since the method recycles existing materials, it’s considered far more sustainable than other road repair options, monetarily and environmentally. As such, FDR is now the favored method used by road administration authorities across the USA.
Full-Depth Reclamation typically requires the following materials:
- Recycled roadway (recycled in-situ)
- Asphalt emulsion
- Foamed asphalt (if not using asphalt emulsion)
- An asphalt rejuvenation agent
- Virgin aggregate
The Process of Full Depth Reclamation
Whether a municipal authority is completing cement slurry full depth reclamation or another method of FDR, the construction process is similar.
First, the construction company drives a road reclaimer pulverizer over the existing roadway. Engineers predetermine the depth of reclamation. Then, the machine simultaneously adds stabilizing agents and water to the pulverized material.
A breakdown roller (followed by an intermediate roller) and grader take over to compact the material to the required density and road grade. Finally, the finish roller compresses the remaining loose aggregate, smoothing the road surface.
Construction workers apply a sealant and surface course to the pavements, and the road is re-opened to traffic.
The Many Advantages of FDR
Full-depth reclamation has numerous advantages. And this makes it a favored method for roadmakers.
It’s Fast
Cars, trucks, and bikes can get back on the road not long after the sealant is applied. Unlike other road repair methods, there’s little downtime for the FDR method.
It’s Cheap
Full-depth reclamation uses the existing roadway material as the base layer. In some cases, absolutely no virgin material is needed to repair the road. Plus, because it’s faster, less labor is required.
These factors make FDR a far cheaper option.
It’s Eco-Friendly
It’s hard to argue with the fact that recycling or reclaiming existing road materials is better for the environment than bringing in new materials. The process also results in less damage to the surrounding soil.
Understanding Popular Road Reclamation Methods
Full depth reclamation is a method increasingly preferred by municipal authorities across the country.
After all, it’s cheaper and more eco-friendly than any other road resurfacing option. A solid understanding of this method is essential if you work in the transport construction sector. You’ll likely come across it in your day-to-day work, whether you’re an engineer, site manager, or roadside worker.
For more insights into construction technologies, read the other blogs on our website.
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