In the world of winter road maintenance, where snow and ice pose constant challenges, the effectiveness of snow plow edges is a critical factor in ensuring safe and clear roadways. However, the performance of snow plow edges is intricately tied to the prevailing weather conditions.
In this blog, we’ll explore the ways in which weather conditions influence the performance of snow plow edges and how road maintenance professionals can adapt to maximize their effectiveness in diverse winter environments. We’ll also talk about the importance of getting a snow plow edge replacement if the current snow plow edge is nearing the end of its effectiveness.
Here’s a brief outline of the topics we’ll be covering:
- The Role of Snow Plow Edges
- Temperature Fluctuations
- Types of Precipitations
- Other Environmental Factors
- Choosing the Right Snow Plow Edges
The Role of Snow Plow Edges
Before delving into the impact of weather conditions, let’s briefly understand the role of snow plow edges. These crucial components, attached to the bottom edge of snow plows, are designed to cut through and remove snow and ice from road surfaces. The effectiveness of snow plow edges is influenced by various factors, and weather conditions play a central role in determining how well they can perform their essential functions.
Temperature Fluctuations
- Cold Temperatures:
In extremely cold conditions, snow and ice can become densely packed and resistant to removal. Steel snow plow edges, known for their durability, can efficiently cut through compacted snow and ice.
- Warmer Temperatures:
As temperatures rise, snow and ice tend to become wet and slushy, creating a different set of challenges. Steel snow plow edges remain effective in these conditions.
Tip for Road Maintenance Professionals: Adjust plowing speeds and blade angles in wet conditions to optimize snow removal without compromising safety. Regularly inspect snow plow edges to maintain optimal performance.
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Types of Precipitation
- Snowfall:
During light to moderate snowfall, the cutting action of snow plow edges is generally effective in keeping road surfaces clear. However, in heavy snowfall, the accumulation rate may exceed the plow’s removal capacity, necessitating more frequent passes and increased attention to blade adjustments.
Tip for Road Maintenance Professionals: Monitor weather forecasts closely and deploy snow plows strategically during heavy snowfall events. Consider pre-wetting road surfaces with anti-icing solutions to enhance snow and ice removal efficiency.
- Freezing Rain and Sleet:
Freezing rain and sleet create a challenging layer of ice on road surfaces. Steel snow plow edges can effectively cut through ice, but the risk of damage increases if not properly adjusted. Rubber edges offer a gentler approach, reducing the potential for surface abrasion.
Tip for Road Maintenance Professionals: Prioritize the use of rubber edges during freezing rain events to minimize pavement damage. Adjust plowing techniques to provide controlled removal without compromising road safety.
- Mixed Precipitation:
Regions experiencing varied winter conditions, with alternating periods of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, require adaptable snow plow strategies. Steel edges offer durability in cutting through diverse materials, but selecting the appropriate edge material becomes crucial in managing mixed precipitation scenarios.
Tip for Road Maintenance Professionals: Opt for steel snow plow edges when facing mixed precipitation but be prepared to switch to rubber edges if conditions change rapidly. Regularly assess road conditions to make informed decisions regarding edge material choices.
Other Environmental Factors
- Wind Speed and Drifting Snow:
High winds can lead to the formation of snowdrifts, which present additional challenges for snow plow edges. Steel edges, with their cutting power, are effective in breaking through drifts, but windblown snow may require repeated passes for thorough removal.
Tip for Road Maintenance Professionals: Utilize snow fences or barriers to minimize drifting in critical areas. Adjust plowing techniques to address windblown snow efficiently and consider deploying additional equipment if drifts become significant.
- Road Surface Conditions:
The state of road surfaces, including variations in elevation, texture, and composition, can impact the performance of snow plow edges. Uneven surfaces may require adjustments to blade angles and pressure settings to achieve consistent and effective snow removal.
Tip for Road Maintenance Professionals: Conduct thorough road surface assessments before and during snow removal operations. Adjust plow settings to accommodate variations in surface conditions and prioritize safety by addressing potential hazards promptly.
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Choosing the Right Snow Plow Edges
Given the diverse challenges presented by different weather conditions, selecting the right snow plow edges is a crucial decision for road maintenance professionals. Consider the following factors when choosing snow plow edges:
- Material:
Choose the edge material based on road condition prior to precipitation. Steel edges offer durability and cutting power, while rubber and polyurethane edges provide flexibility and reduced abrasive impact on pavement surfaces.
- Maintenance and Inspection:
Regularly inspect and maintain snow plow edges to ensure optimal performance. Address any signs of wear or damage to promptly prevent operational disruptions and extend the lifespan of the edges.
Adapting to Winter’s Challenges
In the realm of winter road maintenance, adaptability is key. As weather conditions fluctuate, road maintenance professionals must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to adjust their strategies accordingly. The performance of snow plow edges is intricately tied to these conditions, and understanding how different factors come into play is essential for effective snow and ice removal.
By choosing the right snow plow edges and snow plow edge replacements, road maintenance professionals can navigate the challenges presented by winter weather with efficiency and effectiveness. As we face the unpredictable nature of winter, let’s embrace the role of snow plow edges as versatile allies in the ongoing battle to keep our roads safe and clear for all.
United Rotary Brush Corporation has been the nation’s most reliable source for all of the brooms listed in this article and many other items. We supply our clients with important items, such as airport runway brooms, street sweeper brooms, snow plow edges, bucket blades, and spreader chains. It is our mission to help our clients keep their environments clean and clear of trash, debris, and any other object that might get in the way.
For more information about our expansive inventory of gutter brooms, tube brooms, main brooms, strip brooms, wafer brooms, and more – contact us today at (800) 851-5108. You can also go online to see our full assortment of products for highly acclaimed brands like Global, Elgin, Schwarze, XBroom, SB Manufacturing, TYMCO, Bucher/Johnston, Virnig, Bobcat, Laymor, Paladin, and many others.
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