FROM THE FIELD
Upgrading Quality Testing at Gerken Materials
The SmarTracker™ advantage.
Gerken Materials, Inc. is excited to announce its latest innovation leap: the upgrade of its central testing laboratory in Napoleon with the state-of-the-art SmarTracker Hamburg Wheel Tracker. This cutting-edge technology marks a significant enhancement in our ability to ensure the integrity and durability of asphalt pavements.
Why the SmarTracker?
The SmarTracker device simulates real road traffic conditions by applying repeated, concentrated rolling loads to asphalt pavement samples. That is crucial for analyzing how vehicle tires impact road surfaces, particularly in terms of stress, wear, and the formation of rutting due to heavy traffic.
According to Jim Shoemaker, Director of Quality Paving and Materials, “The new device can simulate traffic equivalent to 20,000 passes and can test four samples of a mix simultaneously.” As a result, the SmarTracker represents a significant advancement over our existing asphalt pavement analyzer, enabling us to conduct more comprehensive assessments than ever before.
Benefits of the New Technology
Equipped to provide precise and reliable results, the SmarTracker is an essential tool in our commitment to maintaining high-quality standards. It allows for concurrent testing of wet and dry conditions, which is vital in assessing moisture sensitivity—an essential factor in the longevity of asphalt. The device’s innovative retractable wheel system minimizes the need for heavy lifting, thereby reducing the likelihood of back injuries and physical strain when handling samples.
Not only does the SmarTracker streamline our testing processes, but it also incorporates a water circulation system and air heaters, which maintain consistent temperatures and safeguard electrical components. The result is a reliable testing environment that is crucial for obtaining accurate data.
Continuous Learning and Development
At Gerken Materials, we understand that cutting-edge technology alone isn’t enough; a skilled workforce is essential to making it work effectively. Our lab technicians play a crucial role in quality control testing for construction materials, ensuring that every project meets stringent specifications and industry standards.
While formal education is not a prerequisite for our lab technicians, we invest in their development by providing comprehensive training at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University. Additionally, technicians earn certifications from the Ohio and Michigan Departments of Transportation, with the entire training process typically taking more than three years to complete. Our commitment to skill development ensures that our team stays current with industry knowledge and best practices.
Conclusion
The integration of the SmarTracker into our testing laboratory is more than just a technological upgrade; it signifies our ongoing commitment to excellence in quality assurance for construction materials. By emphasizing advanced testing methods and continuous training, Gerken Materials maintains its promise to deliver safe and durable structures to our communities. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to innovation, quality, and safety.
