String lines have traditionally been used to control paving machine elevation and steering on the grade. Stringless paving (sometimes referred to as “3-D paving”) is the process of constructing a pavement using non-contact, electronic guidance systems to guide the paver along the grade without the aid of string lines. Stringless paving allows contractors to eliminate hubs, pins, sensors or wands, clamps, and string lines (wires, cables, rope, etc.). This can produce significant savings of time and labor for establishing and maintaining the string line system, the elimination of stringline-related tripping hazards, and reductions in the required width of operating space for the paver. Additionally, stringless paving offers the potential for more accurate, smoother paving, especially in tight horizontal and vertical curves where stringlines can only simulate a smooth curve using straight line segments. This tech brief addresses the following areas of concern in stringless paving: Comparing string line and stringless paving processes and results; Fundamentals of machine control; Working with design data; Equipment and peripherals; and Best practices for stringless paving.
This report presents the development of a combined smoothness specification for asphalt and concrete pavementsand associated training for the certific...
Smoothness is a measure of the level of comfort experienced by the traveling public while riding over a pavement surface. As an important indicator of...
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United States Department of Transportation
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