Hveem Method

The Hveem method has been proven to produce quality HMA from which long-lasting
pavements can be constructed. This section briefly discusses the Hveem mix design method.

Figure 2: California Kneading Compactor

Figure1: California Kneading Compactor
The basic concepts of the Hveem mix design method were originally developed by Francis
Hveem when he was a Resident Engineer for the California Division of Highways in the late
1920s and 1930s.

The Hveem mix design method consists of three basic steps:

1. Aggregate selection. Different agencies/owners specify different methods of aggregate

acceptance. Typically, a battery of aggregate physical tests is run periodically on each
particular aggregate source. Then, for each mix design, gradation and size requirements
are checked. Normally, aggregate from more than one source is required to meet
gradation requirements.
2. Asphalt binder selection. This depends on state design catalogues and any special use
the pavement may be used for, such as airports.
3. Optimum asphalt binder content determination. In the Hveem method, this step can be
broken up into 5 sub steps:

 Prepare multiple initial samples, each at a different asphalt binder content. For instance,
one sample each might be made at 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5 and 7 percent asphalt by dry
weight for a total of six samples.
 Compact these trial mixes in the California Kneading Compactor (see Figures 1 and 2).
This compactor is specific to the Hveem mix design method.
 Test the samples for stability and cohesion using the Hveem stabilometer and cohesion
meter. These tests are specific to the Hveem mix design method. Passing values of
stability and cohesion depend upon the mix class being evaluated. Typically, all
samples pass the cohesion test and three or four pass the stability test.
 Determine the density and other volumetric properties of the samples.
  Select the optimum asphalt binder content. The asphalt binder content corresponding
to 4 percent air voids is selected as long as this binder content passes stability and
cohesion requirements.

Figure 3. Hveem stabilometer.

Figure 4. Cohesiometer.

Table 1. Typical Hveem Design Criteria (from Asphalt Institute, 1979)

Mix Criteria Light Traffic Medium Traffic Heavy Traffic

(Less than 104 ESALs) (104 - 106 ESALs) (Greater than 106
ESALs)

Stabilometer Value 30 35 37

Air Voids Approximately 4 percent