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Mastering the Art of High Float Emulsion Spray Sealing

Colas truck applying road aggregate using High Float Emulsion spray sealing technique amidst trees.In the world of road maintenance and construction, spray sealing is more than just applying bitumen, it’s about understanding the interaction between binder, aggregate, weather, and technique. At COLAS Australia, we’ve embraced High Float Emulsion spray sealing as part of our green strategy.

The success of High Float Emulsion spray sealing depends heavily on getting the technique right. It requires a deep understanding of how various elements of binder, aggregate, weather, and application technique interact with one another.

To ensure success, our dedicated crews and technical teams have spent time on the ground gaining valuable hands-on experience, focusing on several key areas of technique and application. These include:

  • Adjusting Spray Rates: It’s crucial to modify spray rates depending on surface conditions and the prevailing weather. This ensures optimal adhesion and performance.
  • Selecting the Right Aggregate: Choosing the appropriate aggregate and timing its application are vital for the success of the spray sealing process.
  • Managing Dusty Surfaces: One of the unique advantages of High Float Emulsion is its capability to perform well on dusty surfaces and aggregates, eliminating the need for precoating.
  • Ensuring Uniform Coverage: Achieving consistent coverage and fast break time is essential, especially when the roads are under high traffic conditions.

A Colas Australia truck applying High Float Emulsion spray sealing on a dusty rural road. Workers wearing orange safety vests supervise the process, ensuring uniform coverage under clear skies.

Why Choose High Float Spray Sealing?

There are several compelling reasons to utilise High Float Spray Sealing, including:

  • Cold-Applied: This method is not only safer but also greener compared to traditional hot spray sealing.
  • No Precoating Required: The ability to skip precoating simplifies the process and speeds up project timelines.
  • Performance on Dusty Aggregates: The technology allows for effective sealing even on less-than-ideal surface conditions.
  • No Cutter Needed: Our method eliminates the requirement for cutter, which can be especially beneficial during winter months.
  • Reduced Cutter Usage: High Float Spray Sealing typically requires less cutter than hot spray sealing, leading to a more environmentally friendly process.
  • Weather Resilience: This approach is designed to withstand both the extreme heat of Australian summers and the chill of its winters.

A large truck is shown in the process of spreading gravel over a layer of tar to create a new road surface. The truck is labeled with a sign indicating "Oversize" and is tilted to allow the gravel to pour out. Multiple workers in high-visibility orange clothing are visible ahead on the road as part of the construction team.

At COLAS Australia, our commitment to quality is not simply about adopting a new product; it’s about enhancing our capability, adapting our techniques, and delivering consistent sealing performance across Australia’s most challenging environments. This is why we utilise SAMIfloat, our specially designed High Float Emulsion, ensuring we get the job done right every time.

With High Float Spray Sealing, we are not only paving the way for innovation in road maintenance but also contributing to greener practices in our industry.

Published: Mon 26 May 2025