Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
(OP)
Presently using core samples and nukes for Quality Assurance in asphalt paving. Contractors want to start using non nuclear devices....such as the Trans Tech PQI 301 or Pavetracker Plus 2701-b. Costs driving factor.
Question.......any links to good test data or comparitive results out there. Looking for side by side testing results with both pros and cons of each method. We are a Gov. Agency looking to phase out nuclear density gear.
Question.......any links to good test data or comparitive results out there. Looking for side by side testing results with both pros and cons of each method. We are a Gov. Agency looking to phase out nuclear density gear.





RE: Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
RE: Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
Within the last year or so I have been hearing that the non-nuclear gauges are not as accurate as the nuclear. I thought the reasoning (besides cost) was that sometimes the nuke gives bogey readings if not allowed to cool off between successive shots, and the process of dealing with the source material.
If you are having good luck with correlation between cores and nuke.....I would do some research (googleage), and present the results of what the industry (asphalt and or feds) recommends.
I am familiar with the anal retentive characteristics/rules of regulatory agencies in maintaining storage and use on the nuke.
hope this helps
RE: Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
We'll typically do a test strip at the beginning of the paving job, and do a battery of tests. We then wait for the sample results to get back before allowing the contractor to pave away full bore.
Looks like i will be doing field tests in the spring.
RE: Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
Just because the contractor wants to change things doesn't make it happen.
RE: Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
The contractor can work through the state or regional road builders association to get the state DOT to allow alternate testing procedures.
Cheers
RE: Nuclear Vs. Non Nuclear Density Testing of Asphalt
In the case where a contractor wants to change methods in an ongoing project where the test strip is already completed and approved, both the nuc and non-nuc methods could be employed on prodution paving and the results compared. If the adjusted sample size non-nuc method repeatedly produces averages reasonably equal to the nuclear method, there would be no reason not to allow the change.