Heated-in-Place Thermoplastic (Shortline Applications)
Heated-in-place thermoplastic is a preformed thermoplastic that has been shaped by the manufacturer into its final shape and thickness and includes a top layer of beads. These materials must conform to
and are classified by TxDOT in this specification as
Type C
. They are very durable markings and are used primarily for shortline applications, including transverse lines, words, and symbols. These materials do not have any pre-applied adhesive, and bonding to the pavement is achieved by placing the material in the desired location and heating the material with a torch. A manufacturer recommended sealer should be used on hydraulic cement concrete or old asphalt. Application includes five general steps:- Cleaning the surface.
- Removal of moisture.
- Layout of the material.
- Heating the material (in some cases the pavement surfaces must also be heated).
- Checking for proper bond using a chisel or similar device.
Figure 2-16 shows a typical preformed thermoplastic application.
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Figure 2-16. Typical preformed thermoplastic application.
Specific application requirements may vary with manufacturer, and therefore manufacturer specifications should always be followed. As with any thermoplastic application, the presence of pavement surface moisture or an improperly cleaned surface will cause insufficient bonding leading to failures.