Figure 11-15. - Insertion of the locking bar.

Figure 11-16. - Placing of third mat (full-length).

preceding row while being held at an angle (fig. 11-12). The mat must then be aligned so when it is rotated downward, the end connectors mate properly, as shown in figure 11-13.

NOTE: The mats are designed with an apparent 'loose fit." This is to allow for expansion and also to allow for the natural waviness inherent in the extruded mat sections. Because of this, it is possible to have a row of mats "installed" but misaligned so as to prevent the proper engagement of one or more of the mats in the following row. (Such a condition in exaggerated form, and the method of corrections, is shown is figure 11-17.) Locking bars may be used as temporary spacers between the rows to prevent this. Place a locking bar on edge where the ends of two mats join and as the row ends. After three or four rows have been laid using locking spacers, proceed with the remainder of the runway or taxiway by removing the spacers from the furthest row and using them in the row just laid.

CAUTION If it becomes necessary to adjust matting with a sledge, always place a wooden block