FC1/FC2, SMA & DFC Aggregate Sales

FC1/FC2, SMA & DFC Aggregate Sales

Asphalt Aggregate:
James Gordon
Material Sales and Technical Manager
Direct 705-646-5713
Email jgordon@fowler.ca

 

Fowler is a premier supplier of high performance and skid-resistance aggregates for use on high-volume surface course asphalt pavements including: Superpave FC1 and FC2 aggregates, Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) aggregates and HL1 & DFC aggregates. Fowler's friction coarse aggregates are subject to rigorous quality control to ensure you are receiving a consistently reliable premium product for use in the most demanding asphalt applications.


FC1/FC2

In the context of construction materials, particularly in asphalt and road construction, FC1 and FC2 are classifications for aggregates. Specific properties and characteristics often define these classifications to ensure the suitability of the aggregates for particular applications.

  1. FC1 (Friction Course Type 1): This classification for aggregates used in friction courses in asphalt pavements. Friction courses are designed to provide high skid resistance and are commonly used in surface layers of roadways. FC1 aggregates typically meet specific criteria regarding gradation, shape, and other properties to ensure optimal performance in terms of skid resistance.
  2. FC2 (Friction Course Type 2): Similar to FC1, FC2 is another classification for aggregates used in friction courses. The distinction between FC1 and FC2 may involve variations in gradation, particle size distribution, or other specifications. The choice between FC1 and FC2 may depend on the specific requirements of a project.

These classifications are often part of specifications and standards that transportation agencies or relevant authorities set. The goal is to categorize aggregates based on their properties to ensure that they meet the performance requirements of the intended application, such as providing sufficient friction to enhance road safety.

It's essential to refer to the specific guidelines, standards, or specifications provided by the relevant transportation authority or agency to understand the detailed requirements for FC1 and FC2 aggregates in a given region or project. 


SMA

SMA stands for Stone Mastic Asphalt, a type of asphalt mix commonly used in road construction. SMA is designed to provide enhanced durability, resistance to rutting, and improved skid resistance. The critical component of SMA is the aggregate, carefully selected and characterized to meet specific requirements.

Here are some key features and considerations related to SMA aggregates:

  1. Coarse Aggregate Content: SMA typically contains more coarse aggregates than traditional asphalt mixes. The coarse aggregates provide stability and durability to the asphalt pavement.
  2. Aggregate Gradation: The gradation of SMA aggregates is carefully controlled to achieve optimal performance. The mix usually includes a well-graded combination of coarse and fine aggregates to ensure proper stone-on-stone contact, contributing to the mix's strength and resistance to deformation.
  3. Modified Asphalt Binder: SMA often incorporates a modified asphalt binder, which enhances the binder's properties and improves resistance to aging and deformation.
  4. Void Content: SMA is designed to have a high percentage of voids in the mineral aggregate (VMA). This allows for adequate drainage and helps prevent the trapping of air and moisture within the mix.
  5. Skid Resistance: SMA is known for its excellent skid resistance, making it particularly suitable for high-traffic areas and locations with demanding safety requirements.
  6. Applications: SMA is commonly used in surface layers of road pavements, where durability and skid resistance are crucial. It is often chosen for heavy-traffic roads, intersections, and areas where braking and acceleration forces are high.


DFC

DFC stands for Dense Friction Course, a type of asphalt mix used in road construction. Like SMA (Stone Mastic Asphalt), DFC is designed to provide specific characteristics for road surfaces. The term "DFC Aggregate" would refer to the aggregate component used in the Dense Friction Course. Specifications for DFC aggregates and the overall mix design are typically outlined in standards and guidelines set by transportation agencies or relevant authorities. These specifications may include requirements for aggregate properties, binder content, and other parameters to ensure the performance and longevity of the DFC in road construction projects. Engineers and contractors follow these specifications to meet the performance criteria and enhance the overall quality of the pavement structure.

Here are some key features and considerations related to DFC aggregates:

  1. Dense Graded Mix: DFC is characterized by its dense graded mix, meaning the aggregate particles are closely packed. This density contributes to the durability and strength of the asphalt pavement.
  2. Aggregate Gradation: The gradation of the aggregate in DFC is carefully controlled. The mix typically includes a combination of coarse and fine aggregates to achieve the desired particle size distribution.
  3. Binder Content: The asphalt binder used in DFC is designed to fill the voids between the aggregate particles, providing cohesion and flexibility to the mix.
  4. Friction Properties: DFC is formulated to provide good skid resistance and friction characteristics. This makes it suitable for use in areas where maintaining vehicle traction is essential for safety.
  5. Traffic Load Resistance: DFC is often used in surface layers of road pavements subjected to heavy traffic loads. The mix's properties contribute to its ability to withstand the stresses of vehicles.
  6. Applications: DFC is commonly used in highways and roadways, especially in areas with high traffic volumes. It is applied as the top layer of the pavement structure to provide a durable and skid-resistant surface.