Is it acceptable for Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) not to be uniform if it is smooth and dense?

In the context of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA), uniformity of the mixture is crucial for ensuring long-term performance, durability, and overall quality of the pavement. Even if the surface appears smooth and dense, a lack of uniformity can lead to various problems down the line. For instance, non-uniform mixtures may have varying properties such as different binder content, aggregate distribution, or air voids, which can affect the pavement's strength, resistance to deformation, and susceptibility to cracking.

Smoothness and density alone do not guarantee the performance characteristics mandated for a high-quality HMA. The integrity and performance of an asphalt pavement rely heavily on the uniform distribution of materials throughout the mixture. Non-uniform asphalt can lead to issues such as premature failures, reduced service life, and increased maintenance costs. Therefore, consistent adherence to uniformity standards is essential to ensure that pavements perform as intended.

Conclusively, it is not acceptable for HMA to be non-uniform, even if it appears smooth and dense, as it undermines the reliability and longevity of the pavement.