Cardiff Council is using a specialist thermal road repair machine to help repair potholes and damaged road surfaces across the city, following the unprecedented number of highway defects caused by last winter’s prolonged cold, wet weather.

The machine uses a heat-based process to repair potholes, while reducing carbon emissions by up to 85% compared with a conventional dig-and-fill repair technique, says Business News Wales. It works by heating the existing road surface before new material is applied, allowing much of the existing material to be reused and creating a stronger bond between the old and new surface.

Where the machine can be used, the process removes the need for traditional cuts around the repair area and eliminates joints that can allow water to penetrate the road surface and weaken repairs over time.

Cllr Ed Stubbs, Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member for Frontline Services, said:

“Keeping Cardiff’s roads safe and in good condition is a priority for us, and we’re constantly looking at ways to improve how we maintain our highway network, with the budget available. Last winter, Cardiff, like many other areas across the UK, experienced an unprecedented number of highway defects due to exceptionally wet weather and periods of freezing temperatures.

“This technology allows us to carry out high-quality repairs that create a stronger bond with the existing road surface, helping to extend the life of repairs and reduce disruption for road users. While thermal repair technology is not entirely new, the equipment we are now using represents a significant advancement in how these repairs are delivered. It is quicker, quieter and provides another valuable tool for our staff.”

(Picture: Highways News)