Equipment World Digital Magazine
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ing lots with concrete "islands" and curb cuts – an unequal width front-mount screed is more useful, Narsingh recommends. And when a contractor needs to combine main line and commercial work, and he doesn't have the flexibility to choose different screeds for dif- ferent projects, the rigid unequal width front-mount screed also is the best choice. Another thing to consider is the ability to quickly get a machine into paving mode. For example, Cat's F-Series pavers use an inte- grated generator connected to the paver engine that heats the screed plates to the proper temperature in around 15 minutes. And if a screed temperature sensor fails, the paver's screed-heating system diagnostics automatically compensates to allow consistent, uninterrupted paving. Cat also says its two-speed propor- tional control offers more precise operation of its screed extensions. Leveling systems integral The paver tractor and screed operate together for smooth pave- ments, but use of an automated leveling system that's fully inte- grated to a paver's grade and slope control system is essential for pav- ing true-to-line, and level on any kind of base, outperforming manual adjustments. Today's integrated automatic grade and slope control systems make it much easier for opera- tors to implement automatic grade. These systems offer simple and user-friendly operation, with all set- tings made on the screed console A wide variety of sensors should permit use of these systems in most applications, from parking lots to highways. All wiring and connec- tions are integrated into the tractor and screed, thus eliminating any confusing cables and minimizing the risk of damage. Future three-dimensional reference and machine controls will create accurate base and intermediate lifts. "There are several methods currently available to create 3D references to guide the paver in controlling one dimension of the pavement (1D), the depth," Narsingh says. These systems allow contractors the ability to automatically control the width of the pavement, as well as the direc- tion of the pavement, by automati- cally steering the paver. In addition to grade control, the screed can also be set to control pavement slope and crown. A slope sensor mounted on a trans- verse beam attached to the screed determines screed slopes, then adjusts screed slope to the desired amount. Screed crown can also be controlled with front and rear crown controls. EquipmentWorld.com | April 2016 59 Untitled-5 1 12/10/15 10:21 AM