UFC 3-270-02
15 March 2001
CHAPTER 6
CRACK PREPARATION EQUIPMENT
6.1. Introduction. The equipment used to prepare a crack for sealing will depend on the size of
the crack. Equipment used to prepare a crack will be discussed in this chapter, and the
procedures for using the equipment will be discussed in Chapter 7.
6.2. Equipment Inspection. All crack preparation equipment should be inspected before and
during actual construction. Inspection will determine if the equipment is being properly
maintained, if all of the required safety devices are present, if the equipment is damaging the
pavement, and if the equipment is being operated correctly and safely.
6.3. Equipment. Crack preparation equipment includes the following:
6.3.1. Router. A router is used to create a sealant reservoir by enlarging meandering cracks to
the desired depth and width. A vertical spindle router with a diamond bit (Figure 6.1.) is
recommended to minimize damage to the asphalt pavement; however, an impact router
(Figures 6.2. and 6.3.) may be used if it is equipped with carbide-tipped vertical-sided bits.
Impact routers that are not equipped with carbide-tipped bits or those equipped with V-shaped
bits should not be used because they tend to chip and damage the asphalt pavement. When
using a vertical spindle router, the router bit should be belt-driven to help prevent injury to the
operator and damage to the pavement if the bit jams in the crack. If damage to the pavement is
observed, work should be discontinued until corrective action is taken. Such corrective action
may require replacing worn router bits, changing operators, or replacing the equipment
completely.
6.3.2. Concrete saw. A concrete saw with a water-cooled diamond blade or abrasive disk can
be used to widen straight cracks to the desired width and depth. Concrete saws may be used in
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