Introduction Plastic running tracks have become a popular choice for track and field facilities around the world. These tracks offer a variety of benefits, including durability, low maintenance, and excellent shock absorption. However, with so many different types of plastic running tracks available, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for your facility. That's where the ASTM International Standard 36246 comes in. This standard provides guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of plastic running tracks, ensuring that they meet a high level of quality and safety. Overview of ASTM International Standard 36246 The ASTM International Standard 36246, also known as the "Standard Guide for Plastic Running Tracks," was first published in 2010. This standard was developed by a group of experts in the field of track and field, including engineers, coaches, and athletes. The purpose of the standard is to provide a set of guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of plastic running tracks that meet a high level of quality and safety. The standard covers a wide range of topics related to plastic running tracks, including: - Materials: The standard specifies the types of materials that can be used to construct plastic running tracks, including synthetic rubber, polyurethane, and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). - Design: The standard provides guidelines for the design of plastic running tracks, including track layout, lane width, and surface texture. - Construction: The standard outlines the construction process for plastic running tracks, including site preparation, base construction, and surface installation. - Maintenance: The standard provides recommendations for the ongoing maintenance of plastic running tracks, including cleaning, repair, and resurfacing. Benefits of ASTM International Standard 36246 The ASTM International Standard 36246 offers a number of benefits to track and field facilities that choose to follow its guidelines. These benefits include: - High quality: By following the guidelines set forth in the standard, track and field facilities can ensure that their plastic running tracks meet a high level of quality and safety. - Consistency: The standard provides a consistent set of guidelines that can be followed by facilities around the world, ensuring that all plastic running tracks meet the same standards. - Improved performance: Plastic running tracks that meet the guidelines set forth in the standard are designed to provide excellent shock absorption and energy return, improving the performance of athletes who use them. - Lower maintenance costs: Plastic running tracks that are constructed and maintained according to the standard require less maintenance over their lifetime, resulting in lower costs for track and field facilities. Conclusion The ASTM International Standard 36246 is an important resource for track and field facilities that are considering the installation of a plastic running track. By following the guidelines set forth in the standard, facilities can ensure that their track meets a high level of quality and safety, while also providing excellent performance and durability. Whether you are a coach, athlete, or facility manager, the ASTM International Standard 36246 is an essential tool for ensuring that your plastic running track meets the highest standards of quality and safety.