1042.1 Laboratory Testing Guidelines for Sec 1042

This article establishes procedures for inspecting, sampling, testing and reporting materials used in the construction of highway signs. Refer to Sec 1042 for MoDOT's specifications.

1042.2.1 Inspection and Sampling Procedure

The inspector shall observe the facilities at the sign fabrication plant and shall determine if the quality of workmanship and materials used in all phases of the fabrication of highway signs are in compliance with Sec 1042. When materials are sampled for Laboratory testing, the samples shall be taken by, or under the direct supervision of the inspector. The inspector shall use all possible care to insure that the samples are uncontaminated and are representative of the materials to be used.

Each sample submitted to the Laboratory shall be accompanied by identification through SiteManager containing all pertinent information.

1042.2.1.1 Aluminum Flat Sheets, Extruded Shapes and All Nuts, Bolts, and Washers

The inspector shall obtain copies of the manufacturer's certifications covering all metal materials to be used. The inspector shall determine if these certifications are in full compliance with Sec 1042 and that the certifications cover a sufficient quantity of each material to complete all the signs for the project.

1042.2.1.2 Reflective Sheeting

The inspector shall submit samples to the Laboratory representative of each lot and color to be used on the project. A sample shall be obtained by cutting a 13 in. (330 mm) square section from a roll of sheeting. A list of prequalified sheeting manufacturers is listed in EPG 106.1 Source of Supply and Quality Requirements. Reflective sheeting used for background, letters, numerals, arrows, symbols, borders and other features of the sign message shall be from a single manufacturer.

1042.2.1.3 Chromate Conversion Treatment of Aluminum Panels

The inspector shall submit samples to the Laboratory representative of the treated aluminum panels. A sample shall consist of a 3 in. x 6 in. (76 x 152 mm) aluminum coupon of the same alloy used in the panels. This coupon shall have been treated in the same manner and at the same time as the panels it represents.

1042.2.2 Test Procedure

Reflective sheeting shall be tested for brightness in accordance with MoDOT Test Method TM-8.

Coupon samples of the chromate conversion treatment of aluminum shall be tested for weight of coating in accordance with ASTM B449.

Original test data and calculations are to be recorded in Laboratory workbooks. Test results shall be recorded through SiteManager.

1042.2.3 Sample Record

The sample record shall be completed in SiteManager, as described in Automation Sec 3510, and shall indicate acceptance, qualified acceptance or rejection. Appropriate remarks, as described in EPG 106.9 Reporting Test Results, are to be included in the remarks to clarify conditions of acceptance or rejection. Test results shall be reported on the appropriate templates under the Tests tab.