Road marking is a very important component for road safety particular with increased car ownership today. Poor Road marking cause a significant number of accidents in Kenya. There needs to be a reliable system to guide motorists on roads. Crown Paints has taken the initative to develop paints for this purpose.
There are two different types of road marking products; the Crown Road marking range of products and the thermoplastic road marking material. This article will focus on the Thermoline road marking system.
Thermoplastic road marking material is a formulation of plasticized resin, aggregate, pigment and glass beads supplied in powder form. Thermoline is heated and applied to the road surface where it rapidly cools and sets. The material consists of 100% solids and is environmentally friendly as it is solvent free.
Thermoline is manufactured from synthetic resin in combination with pigment, extenders and retro-reflective glass beads. It conforms to the British Standards (BS) specifications, 3262: Part 1/1989 and Kenya Standard KS 2157-1: 2008.
How to use the Thermoline road marker
Ensure that the road surface is clean, free from dust and moisture. Heavy deposits of paint require removal. Heat the material to 180-200°C in the pre-heater with adequate agitation till the material becomes a homogenized liquid. On aged asphalt roads and concrete roads application of Thermoplastic Primer coat is recommended for proper bonding of the material with the road surface.
Ensure that the primer is thoroughly dry and void of solvent prior to application of the thermoplastic material. Ensure temperature of 180 – 200°C and adequate agitation during application. Do not hold thermoplastic above 180°C for more than 6 hours.
Do not heat the material above 200°C at any time. Change in colour indicates that the material has been scorched owing to overheating and needs to be discarded. Drop-on glass beads must be immediately deposited after thermoplastic application.
One advantage of using Thermoline road marking is that it’s fast drying. It takes less than 15 minutes for it to dry meaning there will be minimum interference to road traffic. There will be a reduced waiting road use period once it’s applied.
Another advantage is that it is high retro-reflective performance during the day and night. This allows for visibility at all times and in all weather. You are able to see every marking and understand what directions to use and the road precautions to take.
Thermoline Road marking solutions aim to make our roads safer and more user friendly, making the driving experience more enjoyable .For more information visit Crown Paints or follow the products category to road marking paints on the Crown Paints website.
Image Courtesy of:www.worldhighways.com
