The prototype machine was designed to cut radial tire treads into useful construction materials. Non-belted tires are no problem.
Cutting whole tire treads into 2″ strips.
The machine’s designer utilizes the cross-cut option.
A prototype sidewall cutter was developed but never perfected.
The results of a few weeks’ free tire collection at the Calhoun Co. WV, DOT site. These tires were handled at least two more times, quartered/shredded, and placed in a monofill. The 2000 tires shown nearly equals those used in the pictured projects.
Over 500 radial-tire treads – nested and delivered to the construction site. Sidewalls already removed for doormat construction.
The total remaining materials after beneficial use of nearly 2000 radial tire treads.
Beginning drive mat construction near the top of the access road.
Facing downhill from the top of the mat – movable weaving stand in place and about 1/4 complete.
Facing uphill from the bottom of the access road – nearly 1/2 complete. Note the use of filled whole tires for ditch stabilization.
The 2” weave allows for plenty of plant growth which also helps in stabilization.
Facing uphill from the bottom of the access road – nearly 1/2 complete. Note the use of filled whole tires for ditch stabilization.
Weaving the mat on the stand – about 3/4 complete
Completion of the access road mat and integration with the original driveway.
Integration of the road mat with whole, filled tires used to stabilize soil around a tree threatened by road construction.
The road mat – in place and in use
The mat’s first fall – uphill and down – with experimental erosion mat in place. Loose-weave mats offer increased inertia helpful in gaining biological assistance for soil stabilization on disturbed areas.
Another view of the road
While the mat offers adequate traction when only wet or dry, just a little snow turns the mat into an excellent sled run
A prototype drive mat – a 15′ by 35′, “Y” shaped-mat constructed off-site and pulled up to a hillside intersection.
Animals seem to like the mats. They warm quickly in the sun and can be traversed in bare feet.
