Which practice to avoid segregation when using paver extensions?

• A. Keep extension lengths relatively equal on both sides.
• B. Use extensions of drastically different lengths on each side.
• C. Remove extensions entirely.
• D. Increase hopper temperature.

Answer: (B)

Avoiding segregation comes from keeping material flow uniform across the paved width. Paver extensions influence how far and how evenly asphalt can spread to the edges. When extension lengths are balanced on both sides, the flow is symmetric, helping the mix stay well blended as it matures into the mat. If extensions are drastically different in length on each side, one side can dump material at a different rate or amount, creating an uneven distribution across the width. That imbalance encourages the heavier aggregates to concentrate in one area and finer material in another, which is segregation. Removing extensions removes that edge-control, and changing hopper temperature mainly affects viscosity rather than the cross-width distribution of the mix. So the practice to promote a uniform, non-segregated mat is keeping extension lengths relatively equal on both sides.