Stabilising performance from reclaimers

New stabiliser/reclaimer models are coming to market – Mike Woof reports

With road recycling becoming a more widely used approach, several key manufacturers are meeting demands for higher performance. From 172 Bomag comes the latest version of the MPH 125 soil stabiliser/recycler, which is now available with the new FLEXMIX technology. This package is said to set new standards in mix quality for all applications, with an optional change in the mix function that broadens the range of options available to the user. The MPH 125 offers both maximum output and mixing and crushing quality due to the combination of the new FLEXMIX technology and the novel mixing chamber design. In addition to conventional setting options, BOMAG has widened machine utilisation by installing an additional mixing and crushing gate. The infinitely variable mixing gate acts as a crushing bar in the rotor hood. If required, the milled material can be crushed to a specific target size by the mixing bar, which offers an infinitely variable size range. An 11-stage rotor speed control allows optimum working efficiency allowing rotor speed to be reduced to minimise wear, saving fuel and cutting tooling costs. The machine also benefits from the BOMAG BRS 05 replacement adapter system, which is specially developed for use on soil stabilisers. This offers a permanent connection with the base holders and a simple system design that reduces changeover times, while the use of wear-resistant steel boosts service life. High mix qualities require precise metering systems for mixed water and bitumen and comprehensive process monitoring is claimed due to the fully automatic metering computer. This allows working performance to be recorded and the results can be printed out if required.

The ergonomic cab is height adjustable with ROPS protection and can be lowered for transportation in a few seconds giving an overall height of 3.1m, which allows the machine to be transported without height restrictions.

Meanwhile 1222 Terex claims its new RS446C reclaimer/stabiliser is one of the most powerful machines in its class. This features a 508mm cutting depth and is powered by a 309kW diesel, while it also features a tight turning radius. High efficiency is said to ensure that the machine can match the performance of some competing units powered by 372kW diesels, while saving up to 30% in fuel costs. The RS446C has a two-stage engine drive and three-speed cutter transmission, a set-up that is said to maximise break-out forces and allow production rates of up to 47m/minute in optimum conditions.

The RS446C has four steerable hydraulic wheel drive motors at each corner, which allows the machine to operate in challenging applications. It also has four steering modes: crab; coordinated; front only; and rear only maximise manoeuvrability and versatility onsite. In addition to the 47m/minute working speed, the two-speed transmission offers a 10.3km/h travel speed. Direct shifting of the cutter transmission allows operators to select one of the three cutter speeds, which range from 128-209rpm. Contractors can choose between available 2,271litre/minute water only or water/emulsion additive systems for reclamation and stabilisation applications. The housing for the 2,438mm wide cutter features a front door that opens twice as far as previous designs, which aids in product grading and sizing when operating in either the up-cut or down-cut directions. Heavy duty chains replace rigid turnbuckles to hold the position of the floating cutter housing at ground level for improved service life.

The RS446C has a simplified frame design that has reduced the number of main frame parts by 52% while it also features a true rear axle design that the firm says increases performance. Kingpins are used instead of spindles at the wheels to allow the tyres to pivot closer to the frame, reducing the turning radius to 4.3m, nearly 50% tighter than previous models. A service centre with a fold-up ladder at the rear of the machine simplifies servicing and offers single-point access for fuelling and hydraulic fluid and central lube system maintenance. Service access panels in the frame offer greater access to hydraulic pumps and the drive system, while good access to the rear counterweight chamber allows sand to be used as ballast for quick changing.

The machine’s full-width cabin has an upgraded pressurised and filtered HVAC system as well as glass designed to reduce temperatures and a sliding operator station offering visibility to both sides of the machine. The 3.2m wide RS446C has a transport weight of 25tonnes and an operating weight of 27.24tonnes, while its transport height with cab and ROPS is 3.5m.

From 2395 Wirtgen comes its new generation of its cold recycler and soil stabiliser, the WR 240i. This features a cab that can be offset beyond the side of the machine, giving a clear view of the milled edge. Machine output has been improved with the installation of a more powerful engine and the firm says that power is transmitted directly, which boosts operating efficiency as well as milling performance. Wirtgen says that the W240i features three different rotor speeds that help optimise mixing performance. Computer-controlled metering technology provides automatic monitoring and further benefits the mixing operation.