Better Roads

January 2014

Better Roads Digital Magazine

Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/239057

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RoadScience by Tom Kuennen, Contributing Editor Photo courtesy of Caterpillar, Inc. Expo Engineering The Caterpillar Mobil-Trac undercarriage delivers traction on heavily tacked surfaces, and the large ground-contact area minimizes the base disturbance on soft materials. Here's a sneak peek at the technologies behind exceptional equipment for roadbuilding at ConExpo-Con/Agg 2014 H undreds of products new to ConExpo-Con/ Agg 2014 will be on display at that triennial exposition this year, but some of them will be distinguished by the advanced science and engineering that has gone into perfecting them. This month, Road Science takes a close look at noteworthy road construction equipment technology at ConExpo-Con/ Agg. In our February issue next month, we'll examine the science and technology behind road construction materials to be exhibited there. Plan now to attend ConExpo-Con/Agg 2014 in Las Vegas March 4 to 8. Visit conexpoconagg.com for more information. Cat track, compaction control Recent technological improvements that are engineered and built into Caterpillar's paving, compaction and cold-planing products will be on display at ConExpo-Con/Agg 2014. "Customers tell us they want technology with function — technology that helps them improve their productivity and their bottom lines," says Jim McReynolds, president, Caterpillar Paving Products. "Our ultimate goal is to provide customers with solutions that reduce their owning and operating costs." The Mobil-Trac undercarriage, available on many new Cat pavers, provides best-in-class traction, with the high travel speeds and maneuverability, Caterpillar says. Work is completed quickly, and pavers can perform under varied and demanding conditions. With this undercarriage, an oscillating bogie design provides multiple pivot points, so the undercarriage easily overcomes bumps and dips. The tow point is isolated from the deviations and ride quality is enhanced. Friction-drive with automatic belt tensioning has always been part of the system, Cat says. Belts do not slip, while rubber-coated components prevent the build-up of asphalt that is common to other belt drive systems, and leads to Better Roads January 2014 5

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