Asphalt Millers 101
At first glance, asphalt milling and repair seem to be very similar, however, the reality is that there are several differences between the two. For example, when performing an asphalt repair, there are several metal-to-metal joints that have to be milled open in order to replace them. By contrast, asphalt mowing will just involve cutting the old asphalt with a metal blade. So what is the difference between these processes?
What is Asphalt Milling?
In this process, it will cut the asphalt using a metal blade, making sure you do not allow the blades to catch. This is referred to as breaking and cutting. The idea is to remove any pieces of asphalt that may have settled during the rainy season and were not removed by the paving machinery. You will also cut the excess asphalt, which you previously broke and cut. A human-driven cold milling machine digs up existing asphalt surfaces in the process. A massive revolving cutting drum with rows of metal cutting teeth positioned diagonally digs up the surface to a depth of around two inches. The substrate is crushed after passing through a grinder on the equipment.
How is this done?
You will use either a rotary asphalt mower or, a mower that cuts with a blade. You will first remove the grass and debris surrounding the old asphalt. Next, you will install a metal blade, this will cut the asphalt and leave the former layer exposed. You will then remove the broken and cut pieces of asphalt with a metal blade. Basically, the three basic components of a milling machine which are a cutting drum, a vacuum, and a conveyance system.
If you would like to know more information about our asphalt milling services, please do not hesitate to call Hackney Paving & Construction today, we are based in the San Antonio, TX area. Call us at (210) 876-8267 for quality asphalt services!