COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course provides "how-to" instruction in Spanish that covers the scope of tasks and considerations involved in performing dowel bar retrofit andcross-stitching operations.

DBR is the installation of dowel bars at existing transverse joints or cracks to effectively transfer wheel loads across slabs and reduce deflections. Dowel bars are retrofitted into the joints of existing concrete pavements, which either do not have load transfer devices or in which the existing devices are no longer functional.

Cross-stitching is a preservation method designed for longitudinal joints or cracks that are in relatively good condition, but that need to be tied stronger together.

This course contains short, focused lessons that include detailed instructions along with visual aids and videos that reinforce the content so you can apply it directly to your work in the field. Take this course to find answers to these questions:

Why is the technique an important part of concrete pavement preservation?

What options are available for performing the construction processes and procedures?

Which options provide the best opportunities for success?

What materials are involved in the techniques?

What are the proper techniques for mixing, placing, and curing?

What are the specific, sequential tasks required to properly perform each of the techniques?

OUTCOMES:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Explain what dowel bar retrofitting and cross-stitching are, and why they are used
• Define load transfer
• Describe the steps you should take to prepare for a project involving DBR or cross-stitching
• Explain the basic components of DBR and cross-stitching projects
• Describe how to determine the size of the components for both DBR and cross-stitching
• Determine the proper locations to use DBR and cross-stitching for different pavement distresses
• Identify the materials used in DBR and cross-stitching operations
• List the important factors in selecting materials for DBR and cross-stitching
• Explain how slots are created and prepared for a DBR project
• Describe how dowel bars should be placed in the slot
• Explain how the backfill material is placed and finished
• Explain how to drill and clean holes for cross-stitching
• Describe the process for installing tie bars
• Explain the procedures for finishing the cross-stitching project
• Describe aspects of DBR and cross-stitching projects that are tested or inspected for quality or acceptance
• List important quality considerations for DBR and cross-stitching projects

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course provides support and instruction for individuals involved in construction projects using concrete pavement preservation techniques. This training is ideal for construction foreman, workers, and technicians; agency inspectors and construction managers; and engineers.

If you have questions about this NHI training, please contact NHI at nhicustomerservice@dot.gov or 877.558.6873.

PREREQUISITES:

There are no formal prerequisites for this course. The level of instruction assumes the participant has some awareness and involvement with paving processes, but the training is appropriate for participants regardless of past experiences with the techniques. Some instruction on how each technique fits into the broader context of pavement preservation is necessary in order to emphasize why a worker should follow best practices; however, most training content is focused on the ¿how to.¿