mardi 12 avril 2016

Basics Of High Friction Surface Treatment

By Virginia Walker


Friction can cause a lot of damage to surfaces. This has often necessitated development of methods to combat friction so that surfaces can last longer while remaining aesthetically beautiful. To that end, high friction surface treatment (HFST) was invented. This is a technique that applies a slim layer of well-engineered, long-lasting, high friction aggregates as topping on surfaces. These topping protects the surface it is applied over from wear and polishing.

When topping is applied on a surface, it forms a very strong bond with it as a result of good engineering. It forms a coarse, hard, and durable surface, which has a high capability of withstanding abrasion from snowplowing, heavy braking among other applications. HFST helps in making driving safer through the introduction of certain desirable attributes.

Application of HFST on roads provides tarmac with the friction that vehicles need in critical maneuvers such as cornering and braking. It is essential for appropriate levels of abrasive force on the pavement to be maintained to achieve safe driving. When the abrasive force is not adequate, vehicles are prone to skidding when the turn abruptly, brake excessively, or move at great speeds. Prolonged use of road naturally leads to loss of abrasive force.

The ability of HFST technology in addressing site-specific issues on roads is very unique. It should be installed on roads at point where vehicles start braking. The point where installation should start can be determined by observing brake lights on horizontal curves. The intention here is to ensure that drivers slow down when entering into curves. In most states, the HFST treatment is ended at the point of tangent on the road.

There are many advantages that accrue from HFST to driver going turning around curves. Drivers who are over-speeding are able to brake down effectively when turning to avoid crashing. Most research findings show that crashing happens when driver that are over-speeding become unable to brake effectively. HFST retains its polish-resistance quality even on wet roads. Therefore, among the best road safety measures that governments can take application of HFST is one of them.

Double layer application of HFST is also possible. Double layers are mostly applied on bridge decks. The purpose of applying double layers is to ensure that water penetration is totally prevented and to enhance the longevity of the application. Double applications are still being tested and experimented with. Large scale adoption has not happened yet.

There are many factors that determine how long HFST can remain in good condition or rather, its life expectancy. Some of these factors are volume, type, and nature of traffic, geometry of roadway, and types of roadway. It is hard to generalize. However, when the installation is done correctly, the application is expected to last between 7 and 12 years.

In the United States, there are reports of bridge deck applications that have lasted over the last 15 years. Statistics give from various locations and states vary. Either way, the benefits of HFST are way too many over its shortcomings and costs, which make its installation worthwhile.




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