The Reading Borough Council has started applying cold road marking paint products instead of the traditional hot paint material for marking lines on residential roads in Reading. According to the council, this change comes with quieter line painting, reduced carbon emissions, prolonged longevity, and a more environmentally friendly approach.
The introduction of this innovative machine is aimed at cost reduction and aligning with Reading’s commitment to achieving net carbon zero by significantly lowering carbon emissions, by up to 60%.
Priced at £100,000, the electric paint machine serves as a replacement for older diesel-powered vehicles and boasts the ability to operate for a full 8-hour shift on a single charge.
Experts emphasize the importance of recognizing the distinctions between cold and hot marking, particularly in terms of durability and suitability for specific applications.
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Cold Road Marking:
Material: Cold road marking typically involves using pre-formed thermoplastic tapes or paints that do not require heating. Application: Applied at ambient temperature without the need for heating equipment. Speed: Generally quicker to apply compared to hot road marking as there is no need for preheating.
Hot Road Marking:
Material: Hot road marking uses thermoplastic materials that need to be heated before application. Application: Requires specialized equipment to heat the material before it is applied onto the road surface. Speed: Application may take longer due to the heating process, but it tends to be more durable in the long run.
Durability: May have slightly less durability compared to hot road markings. Suitability: Often used for smaller road marking projects, temporary markings, or where speed of application is crucial.
Durability: Generally more durable and can withstand heavier traffic and harsh weather conditions. Suitability: Preferred for larger road marking projects, highways, and areas with high traffic volume where long-lasting markings are essential.
THE ADVANTAGES OF COLD PLASTIC – Cold application, reduced safety risk and no hot works – More durable than hot plastic methods – Increase retro reflectivity improving safety and experience for road users – Sustainable with less site visits required, reducing disruption also and reducing worker safety risk – Smaller application equipment required and lower investment. – Can be applied with solely electric equipment – carbon friendly – Factory controlled colour, UV Stable and options to match to specific RAL Codes
THE DISADVANTAGES OF COLD PLASTIC – Initial product application more expensive per metre – Longer cure time – deeper operational process – More susceptible to weather conditions and changes at point of application – Higher skill set required – Training required to ensure correct application
THE ADVANTAGES OF THERMOPLASTIC – Short drying times. No need for full road closures. – Low initial cost per metre. – Can be applied to fresh black top without a primer – Minimum product waste
THE DISADVANTAGES OF THERMOPLASTIC – Low UV stability on colours – Colour matching difficult with pigments being manually added – Poor adhesion values on concrete – Low softening point – durability reduced in hot weather – Pick up dirt easily in mucky environments – Hot temperatures to apply and permits may be required for application
When deciding between cold and hot road marking, factors such as the project’s specific requirements, desired durability, project size, and budget constraints play crucial roles. Each method presents its own advantages, and the choice often hinges on the unique needs and limitations of the road marking project.
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