NEW STRIPING TECHNIQUE CALLS FOR NEW MACHINE

Although marking tape is a more effective road striping method than paint, offering higher reflectivity and greater resilience to the elements, one factor inhibited its use in northern states. With frequent and heavy snowfalls, plows were removing the marking tape along with the snow. Recessing the tape would eliminate this problem while retaining the same reflectivity, but the lack of proper equipment limited the effort to use this new method. A machine prototype was developed, using the chassis of a Magnum Rideable saw modified with a hydraulic steering mechanism and an articulating head. It was immediately used on projects already under contract in Kansas. Even with the machine, it is by no means a fast operation because of the precise cutting and other processes involved. The procedure requires a crew of about six people. Still, contractors have been very satisfied with the performance of the machine and the developer's support. The prototype has been refined and made available to the construction market.