Best Chip Spreaders Illinois
A worker smiles at a road construction site. BearCat Manufacturing makes the best chip spreaders.

Trust Our Chip Spreaders For Quality Road Maintenance

The Importance of Chip Spreaders in Road Maintenance

Road maintenance is a critical aspect of infrastructure management, ensuring that roads remain safe, durable and efficient for transportation. Among the various techniques used in road maintenance, chip sealing stands out for its cost-effectiveness and longevity. A crucial piece of equipment in the chip sealing process is the chip spreader. For the best best chip spreaders in Illinois, call BearCat Manufacturing at 928-684-7851

What Can A Chip Spreader Do?

A chip spreader is a specialized machine used in road construction and maintenance to evenly distribute aggregate chips. This process, known as chip sealing, and commonly plays a part in  extending the life of existing roadways. It can enhance skid resistance and provide a protective layer against the elements. Chip spreaders ensure that the aggregate is spread uniformly across the road surface, which is critical for the effectiveness and durability of the chip seal.

How Does a Chip Spreader Work?

The chip sealing process typically begins with the application of a liquid asphalt binder, which acts as a glue to hold the aggregate chips in place. The chip spreader follows the asphalt distributor and spreads a layer of aggregate chips over the wet binder. The machine uses a conveyor belt system to carry the aggregate from the hopper to the spreading mechanism. As the chip spreader moves forward, the aggregate is dispersed onto the road surface, where it is immediately pressed into the asphalt binder by a roller, creating a strong bond. The result is a durable, textured surface that improves road safety and extends the pavement’s lifespan.

What Are The Benefits Of Chip Spreaders in Road Maintenance?

Using chip spreaders in road maintenance offers numerous benefits, making them an indispensable tool for road maintenance crews:

  • Cost-effectiveness: Chip sealing is a cost-effective alternative to more extensive resurfacing methods like asphalt overlays. By using a chip spreader, municipalities and road agencies can maintain roads at a fraction of the cost, preserving budgets while still providing quality road surfaces.
  • Enhanced durability: Chip spreaders ensure even distribution of the aggregate; crucial for the durability of the chip seal. An even layer of aggregate provides a uniform protective surface that can withstand traffic and weather conditions, prolonging the life of the roadway.
  • Improved safety: The rough texture created by the aggregate chips enhances skid resistance, reducing the likelihood of accidents, especially in wet or icy conditions. This improved traction is a significant safety benefit for both drivers and pedestrians.
  • Versatility: Chip spreaders work well on various types of roads, from highways to rural paths, making them versatile tools for road maintenance.
  • Quick Application: Chip sealing with a chip spreader makes for a relatively quick process compared to other road maintenance methods. You can usually reopen roads to traffic within hours, minimizing disruption to drivers and reducing the downtime associated with road repairs.

What Options Are Available?

BearCat offers two primary options:

  • The 20′ Tandem Chipper: The Tandem Chipper 20′ is better, faster and stronger. This machine gives you a 10′ – 20′ extension on the fly! Features such as computerized speed controls, high-capacity belts, etc. all come standard with this popular model of chip spreader.
  • Stealth 16′ Tandem Chipper: This model of chip spreader is slightly smaller but just as effective and allows you to transport without permission. Its standard features include a folding rear hopper, computerized rate control, high-capacity belts, etc.
A chip spreader is seen on display. BearCat Manufacturing makes the best chip spreaders.

Let’s Maintain Some Roads Together!

Are you looking for the best chip spreaders in Illinois? We provide industrial road maintenance equipment for asphalt contractors in Illinois, Arizona, Tennessee, Texas, and throughout the United States. Give BearCat a call today at 928-684-7851.