To achieve long service life agencies must pay close attention to material gradation, subbase material, compaction and moisture content. Material gradation depends on the speed of the reclaimer. When it moves too fast, the resulting aggregate mixture will contain chunks and large pieces. An uneven mixture is difficult to grade and usually leads to long-term compaction problems. A well-graded aggregate and evenly sized mixture is easy to compact to achieve maximum density.
Proper graduation is vital to achieve a long life cycle.
The agency must pay close attention to pre-existing problems in the subbase. RAP mixed with unsuitable material might provide short-term results, but the problems will reappear and have to be addressed later only if the subbase contains suitable materials will the RAP mixture provide an adequate road base. Local road managers must ensure adequate compaction and optimum moisture content. Soil additives can improve compaction because they attract moisture that will help attain optimum moisture content. Additives allow contractors to meet compaction requirements with less job site effort and cost.