Flexible pavement construction

Flexible pavements in Western Australia are generally constructed of unbound, granular materials. Satisfactory performance of a pavement throughout its design life is dependent on it having a well compacted subgrade and effective drainage, and on the use of good construction techniques. These techniques must be flexible to take account of variations in the quality and behaviour of materials, the prevailing weather conditions and the availability of construction plant. This paper discusses various techniques used in the construction of flexible pavements by the Main Roads Department of Western Australia. These methods are similar to those used throughout Australia and they could be adapted for use in the south east asia region. The operations involved in materials supply and pavement preparation are described and illustrated with specific examples where appropriate (a).