WSDOT Standard HMA Mix Classes

WSDOT uses the following standard HMA mixes:

  • Superpave.  Dense-graded HMA conforming to Superpave mix design requirements.  WSDOT uses Superpave mixes with the following nominal maximum aggregate sizes: 25 mm (1 inch), 19 mm (0.75 inch), 12.5 mm (0.5 inch) and 9.5 mm (0.375 inch).  12.5 mm (0.5 inch) Superpave has the same nominal maximum aggregate size as WSDOT Class A and B mixes and is considered, along with Class A, as WSDOT's "standard" surface course mix.  Minimum lift thicknesses are as follows:
Mix Type Minimum Lift Thickness
25 mm (1 inch Superpave) 75 mm (0.25 ft)
19 mm (0.75 inch Superpave) 60 mm (0.20 ft)
12.5 mm (0.5 inch Superpave) 36 mm (0.12 ft)
9.5 mm (0.375 inch Superpave) 25 mm (0.08 ft)
  • Class A Dense-graded HMA with at least 90 percent of the coarse aggregate having at least one fractured face.   Its primary use is as a surface course for locations with high traffic levels or when the potential for rutting within the HMA layer exists.  This is considered, along with 12.5 mm Superpave, WSDOT's "standard" surface course paving mix. Minimum lift thickness is 36 mm (0.12 ft).
  • Class B Dense-graded HMA with at least 75 percent of the coarse aggregate having at least one fractured face.   Its primary use is as a leveling course or surface course.  Minimum lift thickness is 36 mm (0.12 ft).
  • Class D.  An open-graded HMA. Class D HMA overlays are used primarily to seal and maintain aged, but otherwise structurally sound flexible pavements.  Class D HMA (known previously as “open-graded asphalt seal coat”) is basically a bituminous surface treatment (BST) aggregate mixed hot in a plant with a relatively high percentage of asphalt binder. Class D overlays are placed with an asphalt paver at a compacted depth of 18 mm (0.06 ft.).  WSDOT's targeted service life for a Class D overlay is eight years, although performance of these mixes has varied on the state route system because Class D HMA is susceptible to studded tire wear.  Thus, this mix is seldom used on high ADT routes or where high studded tire use is expected.  Minimum lift thickness is 18 mm (0.06 ft).

  • Class E Dense-graded HMA primarily intended for use as a base course.  This is WSDOT's "standard" base course paving mix for both flexible and rigid pavements.  Minimum lift thickness is 60 mm (0.20 ft).
  • Class F Dense-graded HMA similar to Class B but a bit coarser.  This is used in lieu of Class B where aggregate sources cannot meet Class B grading requirements.  Thus, it has a higher
    performance risk.  Minimum lift thickness is 36 mm (0.12 ft).
  • Class G Dense-graded HMA for thin lifts (25 mm (1 inch) or less).  The nominal maximum aggregate size is about 9.5 mm (0.375 inches).  This small size allows for its use as a thin, hot maintenance seal.  Minimum lift thickness is 18 mm (0.06 ft).
  • Asphalt Treated Base (ATB) Dense-graded HMA with a wide gradation band and lower asphalt content (2.5 - 4.5 percent by weight of aggregate)  intended for use as a base course