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

  • New bridge refurbishment solutions now available
    July 15, 2015
    An array of new bridge refurbishment and repair solutions are available – Mike Woof writes Around the world there are many bridges requiring repairs or refurbishment, and there is a ready market for novel solutions to upgrade existing structures. New developments offer quicker and more efficient ways to improve bridge surfaces and structural performance and add new life to ageing designs. Spancrete is broadening the availability of its novel precast building solutions worldwide by offering these to th
    Read More
  • Concrete paving in Iceland
    October 3, 2022
    High-quality concrete paving has been achieved at an airport in Iceland by specialist contractor, HIB Iceland.
    Read More
  • Rolling out new and improved concrete pavers
    February 10, 2012
    Paver innovations The manufacturers are also rolling out several new and improved concrete paving models, with versatility and adaptability high on the agenda. GOMACO is now offering a novel independent IDBI attachment that allows dowel bar insertion behind a paver to form the transverse joint. The IDBI attachment is a new generation bar insertion system.
    Read More
  • Innovative testing boosts pavement quality
    February 16, 2012
    Innovative materials testing technology will allow the road sector to boost pavement quality, Mike Woof and Patrick Smith report. With billions being spent on highway construction worldwide, governments are looking to make sure their investments last as long as possible.
    Read More

Highlighted Content