For uncaptured asphalt concrete, how frequently should extraction and grading tests be conducted for production rates of 0 to 500 tons?

For uncaptured asphalt concrete, conducting extraction and grading tests is essential to ensure that the material meets the required specifications and quality standards. When production rates range from 0 to 500 tons, the guideline is to perform these tests every 200 tons. This frequency strikes a balance between ensuring quality control and maintaining practical testing efforts throughout the production process.

Testing at this interval allows for adequate monitoring of the asphalt mixture's properties and consistency. It helps to identify any variabilities in the asphalt's composition that could affect performance in the field. By aligning the testing frequency with a 200-ton production rate, it ensures that the samples taken represent the overall production, providing reliable data for assessment and compliance.

Choosing a different frequency, such as every 100, 150, or 250 tons, may either lead to excessive testing or inadequate monitoring, which could compromise the quality assurance process. Thus, 200 tons is established as a standard best practice in asphalt concrete production.