Cold mix asphalt is manufactured in pugmills which blend water-based asphalt emulsions with aggregates according to a laboratory designed job mix formula. The aggregates may be virgin, or reclaimed asphalt pavement (asphalt millings) may be used to produce a low cost paving material. The cold mixes may be manufactured at a central location or the pugmill may be moved on-site. The mixes may be used for base, binder, leveling or top courses or structural overlays. The resiliency of cold-mix products to self-heal with movement from freeze-thaw cycles makes them ideal for pavements on non-engineered roads.

Benefits of Cold Mix Asphalt Paving

• Flexible but strong to withstand temperature fluctuations
• Can be mixed at a central plant or on-site in portable plants at remote locations
• Water-based emulsions mix easily with aggregates
• Eco-friendly water-based materials used at ambient temperatures reduce emissions, fumes and energy needs
• Cold mix asphalt minimizes transportation and material costs
• Can be easily recycled and maintained
• Cost-effective paving for upgrading rural roads far from a hot mix plant

The Cold Mix Paving Process
The All States Materials Group laboratory performs a mix design with the project aggregate and the emulsion we formulate to fully coat (and therefore bind) the aggregate to withstand the stresses put on the mix during construction and on the road. Our experienced operators meter the asphalt and aggregate into the pugmill, which mixes them. We then transport the cold mix to the paver which places the mat on the prepared surface. The mix is compacted with rollers. It is opened to traffic after initial curing. We recommend cold mix asphalt have a surface treatment within a year of placement; and cold mix asphalt made with recycled millings should be surfaced within three months.

Where and When to Use Cold Mix Asphalt Paving
Asphalt emulsion mixtures are typically used on local roads. They are ideal for upgrading and strengthening thin pavements. Used for base and surface courses, open-graded mixtures are resistant to fatigue and cracking because of their flexibility, high void volume, and tendency for self-healing. Graded stone can be processed into a high quality cold mix that meets AASHTO design guidelines for comparable hot mix asphalt pavements. As with any overlay, the existing base or pavement should be in good condition with no base or drainage deficiencies, and repairs should be made to any serious distresses. An emulsion tack coat is recommended, especially on curves and grades.

All States Materials Group wants your road projects to be successful. We combine our many years of experience with controlled lab analysis and research to formulate open- and dense-graded cold mixes for base, binder and top courses. We also supply cold mixes for stockpiles and your use. Contact us for more information on economical paving of your streets and roads.