Y2K - compliant. Poor compaction can lead to early deterioration of an asphalt pavement. It often happens when paving occurs during adverse weather conditions. Yet, in cold regions like Minnesota, paving must often occur under adverse conditions. PaveCool simulates the cooling of an asphalt mat behind the paver under a variety of environmental conditions.
Users input the type of existing surface, type of asphalt mix, and weather conditions.
The output shows a cooling curve with recommended compaction starting and stopping times. Field tests confirm the value of this program as an aid to cold weather paving. The program predicts cooling rates for asphalt mixtures based upon mixture temperature, air temperature, lift thickness, wind speed, type of existing base, and mixture type. Temperature-related compaction data is used along with the cooling rates to determine the time period in which the maximum amount of compaction can occur. During the construction of an asphalt concrete pavement, PaveCool determines the starting and ending times for compaction.