This summer, we helped make the drive between Zebulon and Rocky Mount a little safer.

This 10.8-mile section of U.S. Route 64 not only got “mill and fill” but was topped with open-graded friction course or OGFC.

What is OGFC?

Open-graded friction course is a type of porous pavement. That means it has more air pockets than normal pavement.

These pockets allow rainwater to drain into the pavement, away from the road’s surface. This is safer for drivers because OGFC:

• Reduces hydroplaning and skidding, so tires grip the road better.
• Lessens splash and spray behind vehicles, leading to better visibility.
• Cuts down on traffic noise.

How Does OGFC Handle?

By definition, OGFC is “open graded,” meaning it is a very coarse and less dense mix. It also uses a “stiffer” binder.

Combined, these factors mean that the mix has to be at a higher temperature to stay workable during paving. The mix also cools more quickly than other mixes.

Therefore, OGFC can only be placed when the road surface and air temperature is at least 50 degrees.

Putting it in Place

Foreman Lane Ward and his crew applied the OGFC, which was produced at our Sims plant.

Ward noted that the traffic, especially during rush hour, was a big challenge on this busy road. So was the rain and the heat.

Despite these factors, the project was completed on time in only four months.