GPS controlled graders deliver a smooth surface

Birse has used two machine control systems on the A14 project in the UK, one GPS-controlled to provide excavators with a +/-30mm accuracy and a second system which used a Trimble UTS as control on a grader to achieve +/- 5mm - well within the Highway Agency's sub-base tolerance of +10/-30mm. This meant that when it came to the asphalt surface, Birse agreed a thickness and Lafarge, the blacktop contractor, let the paving machine run instead of the operators constantly making manual adjustments. At the end of
July 12, 2012 Read time: 1 min
1486 Birse has used two machine control systems on the A14 project in the UK, one GPS-controlled to provide excavators with a +/-30mm accuracy and a second system which used a 2122 Trimble UTS as control on a grader to achieve +/- 5mm - well within the Highway Agency's sub-base tolerance of +10/-30mm. This meant that when it came to the asphalt surface, Birse agreed a thickness and 3180 Lafarge, the blacktop contractor, let the paving machine run instead of the operators constantly making manual adjustments. At the end of the job, one of Birse's engineers looked at a 1km section of type 1 sub-base in detail. The average surface deviation on this tested carriageway was zero and local users of the A14 have even been phoning and emailing their approval of the smooth finish.
Connected Construction

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Four track SF-2400 machine from Power Pavers
    February 27, 2017
    With the launch of the 2400 series of slipform pavers, Power Pavers carries its experience and continuous innovation into four-track paving. The SF-2404 is said to be a useful solution for conventional paving, offset paving, and custom applications and is ideal for residential and intermediate paving projects up to 7.5m wide. A two-track model, the SF-2402, is also available. The SF-2404 features a telescoping frame that allows simple width adjustments. One-touch track positioning and simple steering con
    Read More
  • Topcon’s new Enterprise Solutions workflow management system controls all jobs
    January 6, 2017
    Topcon Positioning Group has released a new workflow management system designed to connect all of a contractor’s sites, data, crews and equipment. Unveiled at Conexpo 2014 this week, Topcon Enterprise Solutions offers constant communication, data sharing, scheduling, updating, support activities and accurate productivity data in real-time, no matter where the job or office is located.
    Read More
  • Topcon’s new Enterprise Solutions workflow management system controls all jobs
    March 7, 2014
    Topcon Positioning Group has released a new workflow management system designed to connect all of a contractor’s sites, data, crews and equipment. Unveiled at Conexpo 2014 this week, Topcon Enterprise Solutions offers constant communication, data sharing, scheduling, updating, support activities and accurate productivity data in real-time, no matter where the job or office is located.
    Read More
  • Developments in asphalt paving machines increases competition
    April 10, 2012
    With the asphalt paving segment split broadly into two methods, American or European,. it is no surprise that manufacturers. from these countries have dominated the market for some years. An interesting development in recent times has been seen with various European firms developing asphalt pavers to suit North American needs, including BOMAG, Dynapac and Vögele. Caterpillar and Volvo by comparison both offer both European and US-style pavers, with separate model ranges that have been developed over many ye
    Read More

Highlighted Content