ATLANTA - Hi-Lite Markings Inc., a leading airport runway and taxiway marking contractor in the United States, continues to set the precedence in the surface preparation industry by improving runway friction values in North and South American airports. During the past year, the Blastrac 2-4800 DH has become an integral part in the successful growth of Hi-Lite throughout these markets.

The 2-4800 DH, Blastrac Global's largest piece of ride-on shot blasting equipment, significantly improves the macrotexture and microtexture of highways and airport runways. Before acquiring the 2-4800 DH, Hi-Lite relied solely on an independent contractor's shot blasting equipment.

"We've been working with Blastrac for more than a year, and it's great that we have this type of high production equipment use in this market. Hi-Lite Markings purchased three 2-4800 DH shot blasters for use in both North and South America. Blastrac understands our strict deadlines and works closely with us on projects to ensure jobs are completed in a timely manner to meet FAA guidelines," said Brian Becker, Hi-Lite Director of Sales and Estimating. "I'm optimistic that our relationship will continue to grow as we work together to develop the shot blaster further."

The 2-4800 DH improves surface texture and the ability for large aircraft to stop safely and quickly. Modern runways must be capable of safely landing heavy turbo jet aircraft that approach runways at high speeds. When rubber and other contaminates build up on airport runways, hydroplaning or loss of traction can occur. The 2-4800 DH successfully removes these unwanted contaminates by shot blasting - an environmentally friendly practice because the process doesn't employ water, chemicals or solvents to complete the retexturing and cleaning process. With the use of a high-volume vacuum system, the 2-4800 DH collects the blast media and loose contamination from the runways, separates contaminates from the blast media and recycles the media for repetitive use. Contaminates are collected in the machine's hopper and can also be recycled at a later time.

The shot blaster is used on runways independently or prior to the application of Rejuvaseal , an asphalt rejuvenator that seals, protects and revitalizes asphalt pavement. Rejuvaseal, which is patented and manufactured by Hi-Lite, reduces the viscosity and brittleness in the top three-eighths inch of asphalt while increasing ductility and flexibility. Asphalt surfaces treated with Rejuvaseal are fuel, water and chemical resistant.