Milling machine partnership reviews results from prototype testing trials

During 2008, four asphalt milling machine manufacturers — Wirtgen, Roadtec, Terex and Volvo — participated in an evaluation of prototype designs for reducing dust surrounding milling machine operations. More prototype testing is planned to include additional machines incorporating prototype designs by Caterpillar and Bomag.

In addition to the milling machine manufacturers, this partnership effort, led by NAPA, includes representatives from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

Most recently, the consortium evaluated preliminary findings from the trials which were conducted at an abandoned airport in Marquette, MI. The airport allowed for a controlled evaluation of the various prototype designs that could not be accomplished under normal highway milling job situations. Results pro vide significant insight into the nature of dust generation surrounding milling operations. In addition, the preliminary results provide a statistically valid indication of significant dust reduction potential using practical prototype design concepts.

The next steps include documentation of successful design concepts, refinement of designs, and additional prototype testing during 2009.