- Prepare a bituminous or concrete pad preferably upwind from existing stockpiles or blowing quarry dust.
- At time of production, stockpile BMP no higher than six feet until it has cooled to ambient temperature: generally 24 to 48 hours.
- Once ambient temperatures have been reached. BMP can be transported long distances. Used for general patching purposes. BMP stockpiles can be built at this time, taking caution not to go any higher than the loader can reach without putting the rear wheels up on the stockpile.
- The ideal stockpile is rectangular in shape with sloped sides and ends. Stockpiles are placed in south to north directions. This allows the operator to work off the south face during the morning hours providing additional workability at sub-zero temperatures.
- BMP stockpiles form a this protective crust after a few weeks. This crust plays an important role in the longevity of the stockpile. It should not be disturbed except for the portion that gets mixed in while loading trucks. Note: The least amount of crust formation takes place in rectangular shaped stockpiles and the least crust disturbance takes place when material is loaded from the end of the stockpile.
- It is NOT recommended that the stockpile be “freshened” or that the protective crust be distributed until loading takes place.
- From time to time freezing rain and refrozen melted snow may allow ice crystals to form in the stockpile. If this should happen and workability or adhesion of BMP cold mix is affected, you may want to store BMP indoors at a minimum temperature of 50oF for a period of 8 to 12 hours prior to application. As a preventative measure you may opt to cover the stockpile during the winter months.
- Good housekeeping is important: Keep stockpile areas clear of debris. At the end of the day, any unused BMP which is returned to the pile should not be pushed up on the pile but placed near the working face to be mixed with fresh material on a 50/50 basis during the next loading out.
The above procedures should assure you a stockpile life of 6 months or more in 100+ ton lots. Should your stockpile be less than 100 tons, follow all above plus, it is recommended that the stockpile be covered with a tarp or plastic.