If you are putting in a private roadway, you may want to consider using reclaimed asphalt pavement, or RAP. It can be used as a granular base or subbase material in most pavement types, including roadways. Properly processed RAP has demonstrated satisfactory performance as a granular road base for over 20 years. Many states make use of it as aggregate in base course, unbound aggregate in subbase, or stabilized base course. At Tucker Paving, we work with reclaimed asphalt, and we’d be happy to work with you.

When stockpiling RAP-aggregate, it is not recommended that it be allowed to remain in place for extended periods of time. The problem is that the material can become overly wet, and then would have to dry before it could be used. Crushed RAP should be blended to a homogeneous mixture as soon as possible with conventional aggregate using a cold feed system. To process stockpiled RAP to the desired aggregate gradation, conventional equipment should be used, including a primary crusher, screening units, secondary crusher (optional), conveyors, and a stacker.

Asphalt cement in RAP significantly strengthens it. The bearing capacity of blended RAP depends heavily on the ratio of RAP to conventional aggregate. The greater the percentage of RAP in the mixture, the less bearing strength it will have. RAP is very durable when used in granular base, especially if RAP makes up less than 25 percent of the base.

It’s a good idea to do random sampling and testing of the RAP stockpile in order to quantify and qualify the RAP. These samples should be used to determine the best blend of materials. The California Bearing Ratio, or CBR, is the test method that should be used to determine the blending ratio.

Using RAP for your roadway project can help save you money, plus it reduces environmental impact by reusing materials. It’s a durable material that will work well in most roadway applications.

If you have any questions, we here at Tucker Paving can help. We are only a phone call away!