Flushing of bitumen is a problem on many New Zealand roads. It occurs where bitumen rises through the road producing a shiny black surface and can be the result of an underlying defect or because of constant wear-and-tear by vehicles. Whatever the cause, flushing is dangerous as it reduces vehicle traction and skid resistance and causes hydroplaning, and needs removal. Because traditional methods of doing this were not always effective and could be environmentally unsound, Fulton Hogan developed a better system using an ultra-high pressure (UHP) water cutter.

Characteristics of Technological Outcomes

• Fitness for purpose in terms of the physical and functional nature of the outcome and the socio-technological environment/s it is used in

Technological Systems

• Identifying subsystems within technological systems and explaining their transformation and connective properties

Technological Knowledge and skills

• Understanding of concepts relating to machines

Company website:
www.fultonhogan.com/NewZealand/

Research paper:
Rehabilitation of Road Surfaces using Ultra High Pressure Water Cutting

YouTube videos:

• UHP retexturing systems
• Careers at Fulton Hogan

Discussion starters (Years 11-13):

Explain the following terminology as related to the design and development process:

• Environmentally responsible road maintenance
• Risk assessment
• Optimisation of the system