Asphalt Contractor June/July 2021

JUNE/JULY 2021

THE TECHNOLOGY ISSUE: 2021 is Your Wake-Up Call

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TABLE OF CONTENTS |

JUNE/JULY 2021

COVER STORY Technology Improves Paving Results & Profits Using data during the paving process can help asphalt contractors build better roads more efficiently. | 10 SPECIAL REPORT: TECHNOLOGY

16 Benefits of Hiring Temporary Workers with the Help from Technology As the labor pool continues to get younger, the use of digital hiring techniques becomes more important than ever.

18 Silver Star Construction Paves the Way for Improvements Mobile technology helps the asphalt company improve offsite operations.

24 Tech Product Spotlight The latest tech trends for the asphalt industry that help improve production and productivity.

PRODUCTION NOTES

32 What Will the Future of Asphalt Production Look Like?

Industry experts provide insight behind what the asphalt plant of tomorrow may look like.

38 Production Products Plants, baghouses, mixers, dryers, automation systems & more to measure the quality of their asphalt.

JOBSITE INNOVATIONS

PRESERVATION UPDATE

42 Heavy Equipment Operator Program Helping to Advance Careers in Construction

52 Using Reclaimed Asphalt for Pavement Preservation Surface Treatments

Programs all over the country are working to fill the pipeline with trade school graduates.

Here’s why Ocean County Vocational Technical School amped up their program for these in-demand careers.

Agencies and practitioners have adapted typical practices to get similar performance from RAP as compared to virgin aggregates on their preservation projects.

54 Preservation Products Milling machines, reclaimers, infrared equipment & more.

50 Jobsite Products Pavers, rollers, MTVs & more.

IN EVERY ISSUE 8

Editor’s Perspective

58 The Last Exit

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

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With over a century of innovation to its credit, Blaw-Knox pavers have earned a reputation for quality, durability and performance unmatched in the industry. Today, with its new and improved highway-class designs, Blaw-Knox continues to deliver on its promise with all the performance features you’ve come to expect from an industry leader.

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DIGITAL CONNECTION www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

The Ultimate Guide to Asphalt Pavement Compaction

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A detailed how-to guide full of steps and recommendations to achieve successful asphalt pavement compaction and avoid failure.

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CONTRACTOR LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS

LATEST INNOVATIONS INNOVATIONS FOR FOR ASPHALT ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS LATEST

ASPHALT ASPHALT

JUNE/JULY 2021 Vol. 35, No. 5

CONTRACTOR CONTRACTOR LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS

LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS

Published by AC Business Media.

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Published and copyrighted 2021 by AC Business Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

Asphalt Contractor (ISSN 1055-9205, USPS 0020-688): is published ten times per year: January, February, March/April, May, June/July, August, September, October, November, December, with an additional Buyer’s Guide issue published in August by AC Business Media, 201 N. Main Street, Fifth Floor, Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin 53538.

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Printed in the U.S.A. SUBSCRIPTION POLICY: Individual subscriptions are available without charge only in the USA. The Publisher reserves the right to reject nonqualifying subscribers. One-year subscription to nonqualifying individuals: U.S. $45.00, Canada & Mexico $65.00, and $95.00 all other countries (payable in U.S. funds, drawn on U.S. bank). Single copies available (prepaid only) $10.00 each (U.S., Canada & Mexico), $15.00 each (International).

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CONTRACTOR

EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE

LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS LATEST LATEST INNOVATIONS INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS

JUNE/JULY 2021 • Vol. 35, No. 5

ASPHALT

CONTRACTOR

Jessica Lombardo, Editor-In-Chief

LATEST PROFESSIONALS LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALTPROFESSIONALS LATEST INNOVATIONS FOR ASPHALT

jLombardo@ACBusinessMedia.com 920.542.1247

Published by AC Business Media

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The Importance of Innovation Being willing to try new technologies and processes will keep you ahead of your competition

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he asphalt industry is not known for being innovative. We like to do things the way they have always been done because that's what has always worked.

But with budget constraints at all levels of government, it’s also imperative to get the greatest value for every transportation dollar the American people invest in our roadways.

In order to achieve this moving forward, and win more bids than their competition, contractors need to focus on innovation in pavement design and construction. We have four simple ways to start bringing some new technologies and procedures into your company. We promise they will help you get more work done faster and that it won't hurt a bit.

save contractors money and help them improve their carbon footprint. Industry rhetoric will tell you that these materials won't perform as well as virgin materials but the innovations behind these products have come a long way.

Contractors are finding huge success when partnering with suppliers of these materials to find something that will not only save them money but also help them to win more bids.

3. Learn Something New:

Asphalt CONTRACTOR

201 N. Main Street | Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 800.538-5544 • www.ACBusinessMedia.com LATEST INNOVATIONS INNOVATIONS FOR FOR ASPHALT ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS LATEST PROFESSIONALS LATEST www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

Publication Staff Publisher

Amy Schwandt aschwandt@ACBusinessMedia.com

Editor-In-Chief

Jessica Lombardo jlombardo@ACBusinessMedia.com

Associate Editor

Dormie Roberts droberts@ACBusinessMedia.com

Ad Production Manager

Cindy Rusch

Art Director

April Van Etten

Audience Development Mgr

Angela Franks

Advertising Sales (800) 538-5544 Kris Flitcroft

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You can ALWAYS teach an old dog new tricks, as long as he's still willing to learn.

With virtual classes literally taking place every minute, there's no reason not to hop on a computer and sit in on an hour-long webinar about a topic that interests you.

Take advantage of this usually free opportunity to learn more about the innovations coming down the pipeline and learn how they can positively impact your business.

Sean Dunphy

sdunphy@ACBusinessMedia.com

Tom Lutzke

tlutzke@ACBusinessMedia.com

1. Dip a Toe in Technology:

4. Don't Be Afraid of Change:

Reprint Services

We're not saying you need to go out and invest in technology for your whole fleet, but if you've never tried intelligent compaction on your rollers or are still using stringlines for paving, what are you waiting for? Consider renting a newer machine or call your local dealer and ask for a demo.

Get the training needed to use the equipment properly and see how your crew performs with this new machine. Take note of what they like and what they don't and maybe invest in something new.

Being afraid of downtime for training or the cost to implement innovation can no longer keep you from changing. Asphalt contractors are going to be tasked with a lot more work once an infrastructure bill is passed and you need to be prepared to do the work the way it's being proposed and not the way it's always been done.

Need other places to start? The pages of this issue are full of articles about technology and how contractors have used these innovations to their advantage. Check them out at let me know what innovation you're company will try in 2021: jlombardo@acbusinessmedia. com.

2. Try New Materials: From warm mix asphalt (WMA) to reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP) to binders made from bio-based materials, there are hundreds of new designs for asphalt pavements that can

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SPECIAL REPORT : TECHNOLOGY |

JESSICA LOMBARDO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF deepagopi2011/AdobeStock

TECHNOLOGY to Improve Paving Results

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& Profits

Viewing data throughout the paving process can help asphalt contractors build better roads more efficiently

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utomatic controls for construction machinery have emerged over the last decade with the goal of helping contractors do their jobs more efficiently. Using technology to better manage equipment usage has been an eye-opening experience for the industry as they adapt to getting more work done even faster with the help of these new processes.

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3D paving control is one technology that hasn't exactly gained the momentum in the industry that it should have. 3D paving allows the system to directly reference the design rather than a surface or stringline of the surface. This minimizes asphalt usage, reduces waste and overruns, and helps projects finish on time and under budget; all things contractors are trying to do on every job.

Without 3D paving controls, contractors are relying on paint markings or stringlines to reference grade and elevation and manually changing the screed to match.

"A lot of the old school contractors will still go out and spray paint on a

road to be paved a depth and a cross slope and then the operator looks at these spray painted instructions on a road and reacts to that on their asphalt paver," Davin Laubhan, paving product manager at Trimble says. "That's very difficult to do and that opens up a lot of room for error."

There are also 2D technologies out there contractors are using that can reference any existing surface using sonic sensors or averaging beams that are put on the side of an asphalt paver. All of these methods have had their place in the past, but do not give contractors the complete picture which can lead to the best results.

"Through a 3D model, we are dynamically able to adjust that asphalt

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SPECIAL REPORT | TECHNOLOGY paver screed either to a specific elevation or cross slope to match the 3D design," Laubhan says. "By referencing that 3D design, the first and foremost thing that we can do is eliminate stringlines on a jobsite. Stringlines are expensive, they take time and they cost money, not only for the material, but the crews. These paving control systems can reduce waste and overruns and help contractors finish on time or ahead of schedule which hopefully means they are also under budget."

TECH HELPS PLAN FROM START TO FINISH Asphalt is a perishable material. You only have a short amount of time to put it down before it's no longer useable.

If you put it down and it's not done correctly, the costs to remove and replace are devastating to the bottom line of a business.

Technology has been developed to help contractors prepare for success during every step of the paving process.

"With the Trimble Business Center software, there is a site takeoff feature that is one of the best ways to estimate these material quantities from the start," Laubhan says. "Trimble Business Center is utilized in the back office to create a design that allows us to know what our target elevation is and what our existing surfaces are. The Business Center Software can calculate those material quantities that would be needed for accurate estimating on a daily basis so not only does that help on every project, but contractors can place more accurate raw material orders with the asphalt plants.”

The Business Center can help plan things like the number of trucks required as well as help you estimate round trip times based on your material

quantities so that you don't have to stop the paver to wait for trucks.

"The technology helps us control our materials from the bottom up," Sumie Abdishi, general superintendent at Builders Asphalt out of Elk Grove Village, IL says. "From not taking too much dirt away from the job, to using the correct amount of stone, and the correct amount of asphalt to keep our yields in line. It helps a lot. And, you know, there's a reason why the office keeps telling me to use it, because they're seeing returns."

EVOLVING FROM NECESSITY Like most companies who try out new innovations, Builders Asphalt was forced in to it. They were hired to help reconstruct and expand the Illinois Tollway which specified 3D controls in the bid.

Photo Credit: Trimble

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"The Tollway job is what started us us on the 3D paving system technology," Abdishi says. "It was it was either that or we had to set up a stringline which would have cost us in the long run probably more money."

The Tollway required the 3D technology on the machines to ensure specifications were being met and that the project owner had access to the necessary data to ensure the performance of the pavement.

"That's a huge initiative at Trimble right now," Laubhan says. "What we're trying to do with machine control, not just paving but machine control in general, is work harder to connect customers with their data. Connecting

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field to office is a big initiative for us right now and making sure that the data that needs to be collected, and whoever is asking for it, whether it be a project owner or a stakeholder, that they have access to that. We also want to make sure they're able to seamlessly integrate that data from office to field through the cloud."

While Builders may have started using 3D controls out of necessity, Abdishi says his company wouldn't go back to the way they did things in the past.

"What got the ball rolling on the 3D stuff was out of necessity, but as soon as we got it, we loved it," he says.

"It gives us peace of mind using it and we know we're on grade and we don't

have to worry about it. Now the goal is to switch all of the grading equipment that we have and all of the grinding equipment that we have over to 3D the best we can."

Abdishi says using 3D controls on the earthmoving and grinding equipment is where they see the most benefit.

"If I had it my way, on any job, I would try to create the base with 3D and then use the paver to laminate the surface," he says. "It's more efficient for us and gives us a true design on the base that the paver can just flow over."

Builders now sees a use for this technology on almost every job they encounter, not just the big ones.

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Photo Credit: Trimble

SPECIAL REPORT | TECHNOLOGY

and then we're going to use a motor grader with 3D control in a subdivision and use the paving to laminate over what we've created on the base."

"Contractors need to start embracing this technology

Photo Credit: Trimble

"It seems like we have a need for it everywhere we go," he says. "We've had a couple of jobs that require variable depth milling and we're using it on a rail yard in the city of Englewood

around the country," Laubhan adds. "Once they figure out that it can actually build better pavement structures by using it, and that it increases the life of the road, this is definitely going to be something that you will see a lot more specifications being written around."

BREAKTHROUGH BARRIERS TO ENTRY Many times in the industry, we hear contractors give excuses as to why they won't be implementing new technology, but the time is now to break past those barriers.

"The contractor may look at this, like, wow, this is expensive, because it can be. They also say they don't have the ability to train their people, because they're already super busy as it is," Laubhan says. "My answer to that is, you know, life isn't going to slow down. We live in an increasingly connected and digitized world where we order things on Amazon and we expect it here in two days, because we have Prime, right? That's the

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expectation now. Technology is the way of the future and contractors who are adopting this technology now are taking care of their learning curve today before this stuff actually starts to be mandated and required on these pavements."

Our industry will start seeing more technologies like this required on jobs and it might start happening sooner than you're ready.

"This is the way that construction is going and we can't fight that," Laubahn says. "If you don't do this now, you're going to get left behind and you're not going to be able to bid the work that specifies usage of technology. If you don't have the time to adopt the technology, you're not going to be able to bid on these projects that require the usage of it."

And Laubhan says you don't need to outfit your entire fleet with new technology for it to make a difference to your operations.

"Start with one machine," he says.

"I don't care if it's a paver or a dirt machine but get some technology on there. Figure out how you can use it to increase your efficiencies, save time and move faster to get your jobs completed.

And then once you're comfortable with that, you can move on to the next machine, and then the next machine.

Then you can really start to see these efficiency gains as you implement technology across the fleet."

Abdishi with Builders Asphalt agrees.

"I know it seems scary because those price tags are pretty big when you first start," he says. "Start little by little. Get one piece of equipment plumbed and ready to go. Then go back and look at your returns. See how you've increased productivity and also see how you've managed your quantities. I think most people will find that once they go there, they're not going to go back."

For more information on paving technology, visit ForConstructionPros. com/21121607

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SPECIAL REPORT: TECHNOLOGY |

DORMIE ROBERTS, ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Benefits of Hiring Temporary Workers with the Help of As the labor pool continues to get younger, the use of digital hiring techniques becomes more important than ever

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he industry has recognized labor shortages for some time. Contractors continue to try a variety of outside-the-box approaches to bring in quality workers to add to or replace members of their crews. Employee turnover midseason however, could delay project completion or worse, hinder growth.

Fluctuations in employees can make hiring temporary labor a viable option, especially during the busy season.

“Supplementing your workforce with temporary workers can help improve productivity and provide instant access to potential talent with specialized skills you may not have access to otherwise,” says Mitch Catino, chief operating officer of GigSmart. “This can also help you save money during your slower times by maintaining staffing flexibility and reducing overhead, Temporary or gig workers are hired differently than the employees you personally recruit. These workers are recruited for your company by staffing agencies or through websites and apps.

No matter the mode of hire, temporary employees provide your company benefits that may help you continue to move the needle on job completion.

INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY When employees use their bodies and mental expertise to complete quality jobs, they can understandably become exhausted and unmotivated, but this doesn’t have to be the case.

“By supplementing your crew with flexible labor, you can offer a more ‘hands-on deck’ approach to get projects done to completion on time or even ahead of schedule,” says Catino. “With an agile crew, you can take on new projects, expand your business operations, save more money, beat deadlines and better satisfy the job requirements.”

Temporary workers can offer the support a company needs on either a short-term or long-term basis. Bring in these types of workers when someone calls in or if a crew member needs to be off due to an emergency. In most cases, when you hire temp workers, you can expect the workers to perform several different functions for you and offer advantages in terms of operations, depending on their knowledge base.

Utilizing temporary labor gives your company a way to leverage specialized workers for short-term work. Instead of sourcing the expertise or specialized equipment required to complete the job, save overhead by requiring what is needed as a prerequisite for your next temp hire.

MOBILE APPS AND PLATFORMS Posting your job opening in multiple places will increase your candidate pool and there are many platforms and

mobile apps businesses can utilize to hire qualified talent. However, not every platform specializes in construction, so you may receive applicants that don’t pertain to the job you are hiring for.

The industry is working to change that.

“GigSmart was founded to connect anyone who was looking for labor to those looking for work,” says Catino.

“We wanted to create a solution that connected employers with available workers across a variety of skills and industries. We wanted to reduce the friction around making this connection, connecting employers with the largest pool of available workers.”

GigSmart created an app called Gig Workers where companies looking to hire can create an account, add details about the business, post temporary shift or full and part time positions from which qualified local workers can apply, review and select vetted applicants to get the work done.

“Gig Workers gives you the ability to set the hourly pay rate, choose which skills you need to hire for, review the applicants and hire, manage and pay them all within the app,” says Catino.

“We give you more control over your hiring process while making it easy and affordable for you, the employer.”

Social media can also be an effective way to get the word out about your demand for workers and to engage with prospective employees. Business owners can use these platforms to provide potential employees a look inside your company by using engaging photos, videos and other content. Use Adobe Stock | momius

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Adobe Stock | metamorworks

captions to highlight your benefits and career opportunities. Current employees may share your company employment opportunities with their friends, family members and neighbors looking for work.

Be mindful of your pool of applicants and how they are browsing job listings.

Just because you, as an owner or hiring manager, use a laptop or desktop computer everyday, doesn’t necessarily mean candidates are browsing the same way. They use mobile phones and social platforms to do research, especially the younger generations. Deliver your “now hiring” messaging across multiple platforms to create a larger pool of applicants.

ARE TEMPORARY WORKERS RIGHT FOR YOUR COMPANY? When it comes to deciding if hiring temporary workers is right for your company, weigh out the positives and negatives. In some cases, gig-based hiring can remove much of the recruitment costs, time and human resources processes. If a temporary worker doesn’t fit well with your crew, you aren’t obligated to hire them back. On the other hand, temp workers may not be as motivated or engaged as full-time employees because they are completing a task, not serving as part of a broader company mission.

Company size also plays a factor in the decision. If you are a smaller company, where many people wear multiple hats in order to fill customer needs, gig workers might be for you. Being able to hire depending on niche projects can instill confidence in the oversight

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coming from the foreman on the job.

Catino added, “when searching for temporary labor, it is important to be clear about the expectations for the job, select an appropriate pay rate, make sure adequate training is provided and treat them the same as you would a fulltime employee to maximize your hiring success.”

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SPECIAL REPORT: TECHNOLOGY

SILVER STAR CONSTRUCTION Paves the Way for Improvements

Silver Star has used technology to improve their field operations for almost two decades.

Mobile technology helps the asphalt company improve offsite operations

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n May 20, 2013, a tornado hit Moore, OK, that would claim the lives of two dozen people and cause $2 billion in damages. It was vital for repair crews to assess the

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situation and get to work quickly in the aftermath. Just as with many other natural disasters in the area, Silver Star Construction crews leapt into action to help with clean-up. Their attention to excellence and being a partner in their community is something that often makes the news.

To help get that work done and coordinate with FEMA, Silver Star Construction turned to HeavyJob Mobile to organize their debris removal projects. Silver Star was up and running on HCSS mobile apps the same day they called to install them.

Silver Star has trusted HCSS HeavyJob and HeavyBid for almost two decades. HeavyJob is their construction project management software, which streamlines operations between their field and office. It allows Silver Star to digitize their construction time card process so supers and foremen can submit more informative daily diaries more efficiently, without having to shuffle

through paper time cards. HeavyBid is a construction estimating solution that allows Silver Star to bid more work in less time by cutting out extra steps and eliminating guesswork.

When Silver Star reached out to their partner HCSS for help in this new project, HCSS was quick to donate the HeavyJob Mobile apps and help the team get what they needed to organize the clean-up.

Silver Star hadn't used job-related mobile apps before the tornado cleanup. Still, the company could integrate HeavyJob Mobile seamlessly into their operations as they worked closely with FEMA. It only took a few minutes of training for Silver Star to start using the apps because of the system's ease of use.

Silver Star was responsible for overseeing and removing almost 172,800 tons of debris, or 11,695 loads. The company chose HCSS Mobile apps over laptops for the FEMA project because of the instant-on capabilities of mobile

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

5/27/21 9:30 AM

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Fro for win are

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Engineered Innovation.

From innovative designs to Caterpillar dealer service and support, Weiler is paving the way to success for contractors across North America. Weiler’s material transfer vehicles, commercial pavers, road wideners, windrow elevators, static split-drum compactors, soil stabilizers, rock drills, tack distributors and front mount screeds are engineered with innovative features to increase productivity while reducing operating costs.

Weiler equipment is sold and serviced exclusively at Caterpillar dealers throughout North America.

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5/26/21 8:18 AM

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

“Even though it can make life easier in the long run, people will dislike change because it can be uncomfortable at the beginning. No matter where you are going, change is a constant. In my opinion, if we are not looking to refine our methods, and making improvements, then we are falling behind,” -Craig Parker, President, Silver Star Construction

devices, the ability to take photos and immediately attach them to job items, and the overall speed of the system on the app. Because Silver Star worked with FEMA daily, they needed to have good daily documentation of work areas and crew sizes. Silver Star completed the job on September 6, just three and a half months after the storm.

LEADING AN INNOVATIVE COMPANY COMFORTABLE WITH CHANGE Fast forward to today and Silver Star’s close partnership with the HCSS support and development teams have helped HCSS understand the perspective of a company that has implemented nearly all its products into their business, and the companies have changed together to make each more successful.

Much of Silver Star’s success comes from their willingness to embrace change and innovation, even if it may take time and cause discomfort.

"Even though it can make life easier in the long run, people will dislike change because it can be uncomfortable at the beginning," Craig Parker, president, Silver Star Construction said. "No matter where you are going, change is a constant.

In my opinion, if we are not looking to refine our methods, and making improvements, then we are falling behind.

"Ask anyone – I am personally not uncomfortable with change at all. One of our core values is innovation, and it's there for a reason," Parker continued.

The mobile app technology allowed Silver Star to document their work in real time.

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TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

Getting rid of paper forms allowed Silver Star to have accurate data on hand at all times which improved operations top to bottom.

"We stay curious, and training is a process we are always making better for our people."

Parker believes change happens over time, requiring a tremendous push from the top to get going and a steady hand from all participants to keep the momentum. The message from the top has to be consistent and has to consider how one department will affect another.

Engaging people in the process gives them a feeling of purpose and trust, helping them carry the vision forward.

"I am the company president, and I encourage my people that if we do not have their production quantities, then our estimating team cannot provide accurate estimates," Parker said. "If we are not sending needs to our dispatchers, how can they know who are the right people and equipment for the right job?

If we don't have accurate meter readings, how can we properly maintain our equipment?"

MATCHING FEATURES & PROCESS FOR A SEAMLESS IMPLEMENTATION Years ago, Silver Star had problems getting accurate timesheets from the field. Paper forms were often

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unreadable, or the foremen would say they forgot to drop them off. At the end of the week, it was a mad rush in payroll to get timecards processed. Then, Silver Star began using HeavyJob from HCSS. HeavyJob made it easy to check if a timecard was submitted correctly.

Parker gets an email if a foreman is not getting his timecard submitted, and they all know that if their time is not in the office by 9 am, somebody will get a phone call.

Silver Star ensures the success of the HeavyJob implementation by appointing someone responsible for looking at timecards and verifying them. Once a person is in the habit of looking at timecards, they can easily sense what information is missing or incorrect.

Most of the time, the data is entered correctly, but they still double-check to make sure it is correct every day.

Once foremen and mechanics were trained in the procedure and understood that foremen sitting in their truck recording time was a priority, they got it right more often than not. To relieve fatigue for those checking the data from the field and sending back incomplete timecards, SilverStar used HeavyJob’s automation feature, called Job Review, to set up requirements for sending in a timecard.

In the field, the foremen see a warning that, for example, a diary page or photos are missing or the hours reported do not match the scheduled hours. The system can also be set to prevent users from submitting until the

requirements are met. Implementing this feature got more qualified timecards to the managers and helped foremen know what was required.

TRUE PARTNERSHIP "The HCSS team gave us an audit," Parker said. "They told us what we were doing right and how we could improve in other areas if we wanted to. They also showed us the methods to accomplish it.

I loved it."

Together, the HCSS success team and Silver Star created a custom list planning out how the company could get more out of existing features. The operations and equipment teams use this checklist in weekly leadership meetings to track progress and project what is on the horizon next week.

"As a business partner, we want to help grow our customers into sophisticated users of our system," Jason Roznovsky, manager of HCSS Customer Success said. “We want to help them build upon features that give them the most personal value so they can take their business to the next level.”

Lars Mallach, customer success specialist and HCSS fleet expert, was fascinated with how well Silver Star worked as one unit. "Their drive to improve constantly takes much hard work," said Mallach. "It shows maturity in their leadership to keep looking for improvement while looking forward, and not resting for too long on what is comfortable."

As a result of their strong leadership, their comfort with change and their willingness to form true partnerships with the companies that supply and support them, Silver Star continues to grow as a leader in their market and impact their community positively.

Tom Webb is VP of Strategic Initiatives & Customer Relations at HCSS

For more information on mobile apps, visit ForConstructionPros. com/21330705

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5/26/21 8:19 AM

TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Vögele Introduces Witos to Paving Applications

Topcon Pavelink App

At the end of a day's paving, job-site reports are sent automatically by e-mail to selected recipients • The app and the paver are networked via WLAN, so information can be exchanged between the machine and the foreman’s smartphone even where there is no mobile phone connection ForConstructionPros.com/21064547

The Pavelink cloud-based logistics application is designed to facilitate connected workflow between the asphalt plants, delivery trucks, company office and paving site.

• Seamlessly integrates with existing planning and management tools, automatically gathering and centralizing relevant information such as quantities, temperatures,

MINDS Inc. LiveLoader App for Asphalt Plants

Soil Connect Marketplace Soil Connect combines technology and social networking capabilities to provide a fast, cost-effective way for construction professionals to transport and acquire soil, aggregates and other building materials.

• Mobile and web-based app fully digitizes and streamlines the soil transfer process • Users can post listings and requests for soil, aggregates and other materials, and can upload supplier analysis and geotechnical reports • Enables soil providers and recipients to transact at shorter distances between jobsites ForConstructionPros. com/21271128

LiveLoader provides the loader operator with a realtime dashboard of practical contextual information regarding plant production.

• All vital production information and statistics are now available inside the cab, in plain sight, updated in real-time • Current mix and percentages, next mix scheduled, feeders in use, amount of stone needed, levels and no-flow sensors, plus time-to-empty countdowns are displayed. Information is graphically displayed for intuitive understanding at a glance • LiveLoader is available for android devices ForConstructionPros. com/21048333

BOMAG Bomap Compaction Assistant Bomap from BOMAG is the solution for the digital earthworks and asphalt construction site; it can be used to document work results on site in real time.

• The app can be installed on standard Android tablets and smartphones and documents passes via GPS for every roller, regardless of make • The result can be exported as a PDF and shows the customer the compaction performance achieved on the construction site in a transparent and comprehensible way • For BOMAG rollers, the app can record additional readings and thus create documentation for continuous compaction control (CCC) • BOMAG will also be launching the Bomap cloud platform via which the machines in use can network with each other ForConstructionPros.com/21064597

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number of trucks loaded, current truck locations, jobsite arrival estimations, number of trucks returning or queuing for more loads, current screed width, current paver speed and amount of roadway that has been laid

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Caterpillar Inc. eRoutes App for Asphalt Paving This application for smartphones and the web allows paving contractors to track the location and productivity of haul trucks as they travel between the asphalt plant and jobsite.

• Paving contractors can open up the app and quickly see where their trucks are and when they will arrive to a jobsite • Provides location tracking by placing devices at the plant and on the paver or material transfer vehicle that create a geofence at these locations • Trucks also outfitted with a small device that is constantly pinging its GPS location • Geofence devices enable you to instantly see when a truck enters or leaves the jobsite or asphalt plant

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TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Volvo Compact Assist Start

Sentinel GPS Truck/Asset Management Solution With nearly 100 years combined expertise, Command Alkon and Libra Systems have joined forces to make it simple for materials suppliers to improve efficiency, maximize production and delivery operations and benefit from supply chain visibility. The Sentinel GPS Truck/Asset Management Solution allows users to gain more visibility into high-value trucking and hauling assets through one integrated, cloud-based solution.

• Streamline your asset management tasks—saving time and money while improving asset utilization • Visual displays of truck status across all orders ForConstructionPros. com/21108646

WEM Analytics WEM Analytics is a manager’s go-to tool to help identify the operational opportunities that have the greatest impact to production.

• Web-based software that can be accessed by a desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphones’ web browser • Easy drag n’ drop interface lets you create additional dashboards for monitoring various functional areas of your plant, across any time span • Data is accessed from your automation control system, both PLC and transactional data, stored on the WEM SQL database.

• Most dashboards have multi-tiered data – high level data that can be viewed with the option to dive deeper into additional details ForConstructionPros. com/21135693

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The Compact Assist line entry-level intelligent compaction package includes pass mapping and temperature mapping functionalities, providing the operator with real-time data about how the job is progressing.

• Powered by the Volvo Co-Pilot, a 10-in. in-cab tablet • Pass mapping gives a clear on-screen view of the roller’s coverage of the asphalt, highlighting stop points and overlaps • Temperature mapping offers a color-coded map of surface temperatures plus the ability to set a maximum/minimum range • Available on DD110C, DD120C, DD128C and DD140C asphalt compactors.

• Comes with all of the wiring and most of the needed hardware to upgrade to Compact Assist ForConstructionPros.com/21415701

HCSS Drone Flight Planner App

The TennaCAM dashcam device is designed for capturing safety incidents and monitoring the behavior of drivers operating heavy trucks and vehicles in a construction fleet.

• Captures footage that provides context and acts as a source of truth in the event of an incident, accident or safety violation • Uses Bluetooth technology to trigger real-time camera recordings when unsafe driving events are detected • Available to pair with both OBD-II and JBUS fleet trackers via WiFi

The HCSS Aerial drone-based analytics platform offers a free smart app, HCSS Aerial: Drone Mission, which can be paired with any drone.

• Captures highresolution images of construction jobsites, analyzes job progress, calculates earthwork volumes, performs safety inspections and more • Fully automated flight plan can be set to be executed over the project's length for more accurate jobsite mapping, data visualization and safety insights • See real-time images during flight and gather data to make more informed decisions

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TennaCAM Dashcam

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• With today’s high production rates and stringent state specifications, it is essential that all possible control be provided to insure maximum plant operation with minimum downtime and superior mix quality • The system is the only one in the asphalt industry to control all operations using standard components and designed, programmed, manufactured and supported in the USA ForConstructionPros.com/21205088

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TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Trimble Roadworks 3D Paving Control for Asphalt Pavers Trimble Roadworks is a highly accurate, automatic 3D screed control system that can significantly improve paving productivity and rideability by directly referencing the design rather than a surface or stringline to minimize usage, reduce waste and overruns and finish projects on time.

• Android-based application runs on the 10-in. touch-screen Trimble TD520 Display and colorful graphics, natural interactions and gestures, and self-discovery features make the software intuitive and easy to learn • Using a Trimble SNM941 Connected Site Gateway, Trimble Roadworks allows the transfer of 3D designs from the office to the machine via the cloud so that the operator is always using the latest design. Productivity data collected from the machine is automatically synced back to the office • Trimble Roadworks 3D Paving Control Platform for Asphalt Pavers is now available globally through the worldwide SITECH distribution channel

HeadLight PhotoBased Inspection Technology

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Designed for infrastructure construction professionals, HeadLight is a photo-based inspection technology that allows construction teams to capture, share and act on data from the job site in real-time, offering the visual source of truth needed to confidently deliver a total and accurate picture of progress from day one.

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Earthwave Fleetwatcher Materials Management Solution HaulHub JOBSlip e-Ticketing Instead of lost paper tickets holding up payment, JOBSlip helps contractors easily see all of their key construction materials data in the palm of their hand.

• Capture key project data: Create notes, record material temperature, and capture quality control data for individual loads.

• Simplify paperwork: JOBSlip captures all the ticketing data from various locations in an intuitive and easy-to-use app • Digitally sign yousignature once during setup, and all your tickets will be eSigned ForConstructionPros. com/21259570

This wireless telematics system for paving contractors uses load cycle analysis to allow users to see where problems are occurring and correct them in real time.

• Electronic ticketing helps eliminate points of contact and ticket transfers inherent with paper ticketing • Creates individual scale tickets and provides material haul summaries for state-funded roadway projects • Provides accurate and timely reporting and scale ticket integration • Tickets and summary reports are available via cell phone • Integrates with popular accounting and payroll applications and scale systems

• HeadLight allows information to be shared from a job site in real-time, saving time, money, and reducing communication issues.

• Enables you to be “on the jobsite” — seeing what’s happening in realtime to ensure the highest quality of work, even when working remotely.

• Ensures customer success and value to every user starting on day one with an easy-to-use UI and proven deployment process (both virtual and in the field training programs are available).

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PlantDemand Online Scheduling Tool PlantDemand software significantly improves material management and order scheduling at the asphalt plant, saving time and money. Streamline ordering process allows plant operators, sales people, the QC team, managers and engineers to store information in a centralized location • PlantDemand increases visibility by having a single true source of information which reduces the redundancy of order taking in multiple places • Visual order calendar helps users understand what plant must do in seconds on an intuitive order calendar with optimized order entry • Save time and frustration generating reports in a few clicks –instead of a few hours, the library of reports creates easy to read, clear reporting for more informed decisions ForConstructionPros.com/21041190

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BUILT TO CONNECT

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In an industry focused on manufacturing powerful equipment, our business remains decidedly human thanks to one simple belief: that our greatest achievement as a company is in mastering the art of connection. Astec helps build the infrastructure that physically connects the world, but the connections we build with people are what make us a true partner to the industry.

We know the equipment we build is not our final product, because we’re not really in the business of building equipment. We’re in the business of building connections.

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5/25/21 9:17 AM

Connection is at the heart of everything we do The primary use for asphalt is creating pavement for building the roads that connect goods and services to their markets, people to their communities and families to each other. Astec asphalt plants are essential to building and maintaining these vital connections.

That’s what drives us to design, manufacture, and sell innovative, efficient, and reliable equipment. And that’s what inspires us to connect to our customers through knowledgeable sales, receptive engineering and responsive parts and service.

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5/25/21 9:17 AM

PRODUCTION NOTES |

JESSICA LOMBARDO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

What Will the

FUTURE

of Asphalt Production Look Like?

Developments that relate to energy reduction, quality of mix and reduced cost of production have all become the everyday normal at asphalt plants and that demand is only going to increase.

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www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

5/25/21 9:32 AM

Industry experts provide insight behind what the asphalt plant of tomorrow may look like

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en years ago, Asphalt Contractor magazine spoke to industry experts about what they thought asphalt plants would look like in the future. Fast forward to 2021 and many of their predictions have come true; while others (think indoor asphalt plants) haven't quite caught on across the industry.

Developments that relate to energy reduction, quality of mix and reduced cost of production have all become the everyday normal at asphalt plants and that demand is only going to increase. With many other changes likely coming down the pipeline for the construction industry over the next few years, we again spoke to asphalt plant manufacturers and component producers about what they see coming over the next 10 years.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

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JUNE/JULY 2021 ASPHALT CONTRACTOR

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PRODUCTION NOTES

The First Asphalt Facilities According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA), the earliest hot mix asphalt (HMA) production units consisted of shallow iron trays heated over open coal fires. The operator dried the aggregate on the tray, poured hot asphalt on top and stirred the mixture by hand. The quality of the mix usually depended on the skill and experience of the operator.

The Cummer Company opened the first central asphalt pavement production facilities in the U.S. in 1870. By the end of the 19th century, builders on both sides of the Atlantic were producing mixers and dryers in a variety of forms. The first asphalt facility to contain virtually all the basic components we have today was built in 1901 by Warren Brothers in East Cambridge, MA. It lacked only a cold feed and pollution control equipment.

The first drum mixers and drum dryermixers, which came into use around 1910, were Portland cement concrete mixers that were adapted for use with HMA. Mechanization took another step forward in the 1920s with the improvement of cold feed systems for portable and semi-portable systems. Vibrating screens and pressure injection systems were added in the 1930s.

The asphalt plants of the early ‘50s might have included a dryer, a tower with a screed and a mixer. They were dirty, dusty operations, says NAPA. But by the mid-’60s, with air pollution a serious concern across the country, many had added wet scrubbers and a few had baghouses.

The other major change in the mid to late ‘60s was the addition of surge bins and storage bins. Prior to that, everything was loaded right from the plant into the truck.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE It's no secret that "sustainability" will be the cornerstone of the Biden administration. How the asphalt industry adapts, and how quickly, will be key to success.

As an industry, we have found ways to reduce our carbon footprint by increasing the use of reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP). Over the next 10

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Gentle heating of RAP, separate from the virgin aggregates preserves bitumen/AC quality by not thermally stressing it when mixing with superheated aggregates.

years, the industry will need to find ways to increase recycled content in our mix designs.

"There will be an enhanced ability to produce more sustainable mixes.

This means more RAP – and warm/ low temperature mixes, too," Paul Lavenberg, area manager for North America at Ammann America says.

"Interestingly, the technology may already exist, but adoption of higher RAP mix designs may not be as fast as some would like. It’s a matter of the mix producers having the ability to make higher RAP mixes … state DOTs adopting higher RAP mix designs … and everyone coming to agreement that high RAP is possible. New testing methods based on mix performance may need more acceptance, too."

Sustainable mix designs will become the norm written in to bid specs and funding legislation which will further drive producers to find ways to create higher RAP mixes.

"Conventional wisdom on how to make high RAP mixes is evolving and showing results," Lavenberg says. "One of the main technologies that Ammann embraces is gentle heating of RAP, separate from the virgin aggregates. This preserves bitumen/AC quality by not thermally stressing it when mixing with superheated aggregates. This enhances quality, workability and reduces waste."

Lavenberg adds that dedicated mixers are also showing great promise when it

comes to making homogeneous mixes – for the sake of temperature and dispersion of aggregates. This also tends to be highly effective to incorporate additives into dedicated mixers.

EFFICIENCIES REIGN SUPREME Sustainability doesn't stop with "greener" mix designs. Asphalt plants will need to also adapt to be more efficient and efficiency at the plant starts with fuel usage. Standard fuels used at the plant range from natural gas, liquid gas, heating oil, heavy oil and pulverized lignite. Many burners are able to combust multiple fuel types.

This allows customers to switch to the fuel that offers the most benefits – both ecologically and economically.

"There is increased use of alternative fuels," Lavenberg adds. "We often sit with our customers in order to discuss and develop the perfect solution for them. Plants with covered cold feeding or bunker silos are an ideal match for solar panel installations. This enables them to cover their energy demand for the electrical bitumen storage. Energy not used will be supplied to the local communities."

Asphalt plants are already being pushed today to conduct energy audits in order to see where they can gain efficiencies and reduce consumption.

ENERGY STAR has worked with asphalt plants to outline the steps

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

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PRODUCTION NOTES

facilities can take to review their energy consumption and even provides treasure maps for facilities to use to identify areas that might be utilizing too much energy and helps show how to rectify that.

As more stringent regulations may be coming down the pipeline, take the opportunity now to see where your company can improve.

SMARTER SYSTEMS The future asphalt plant will also need to adapt to appeal to the next generation

Indoor Asphalt Plants?

10 years ago, Dr. J Don Brock, chairman of Astec Industries at the time, predicted that the asphalt plants of tomorrow would most likely be enclosed in a building.

Besides keeping the plant “out of sight” from neighbors, the covered buildings help keep aggregates drier. The drier the material is going in, the less fuel you will use drying it, which translates into energy savings.

This is happening already globally.

Some of the highest technology, highest producing plants in Asia and Europe use this practice to be good neighbors. The plants can be much more visually appealing and can help contain or reduce local impact.

Additionally, as it becomes more challenging for new plants to be constructed on existing sites, greenfields and brownfields, there are established ways for producers to configure plants in the future to incorporate these features.

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of workers. This means systems need to be more user-friendly and data-driven.

"The next generation of operators are going to have a lot more technological requirements for their job and as a background interest," Ted Christian, strategic account manager with WEM Automation says. "Right now, hiring is become such a challenge and these plants are as lean as they possibly can be by necessity. As these operators retire, the people they're going to find to fill those jobs are going to expect and want to see a lot of the IT infrastructure sensors and mobile information platforms that are already available, but haven't been widely embraced."

Many sensors now come with a built-in web server that can relay status, provide live values, adjust settings or offer analysis. Having more plant sensors improves control of the production process. Christian adds this is important as future operators will be more technically inclined as opposed to operators today that are more mechanically inclined.

"Future operators have grown up with technology, it's in their biology," he adds. "They are going to require tools on their jobs that allow them to get the feedback they are looking for. At the plant, they're going to look for their diagnostics electronically to gather information on how the plant is operating."

That also meets a more updated look to the control house.

"The user interface that we see on plant controls, they're going to get more detailed, they're going to be more modern looking, they're going to have more interactive feedback and read outs to them, because that's what the operator in 10 years will expect," he adds. "The old archaic graphics will quickly lose their interest."

Mobile apps that can control asphalt plants from phones and tablets will also become the norm for operators.

Christian says one operator may be able to control several asphalt plants from one central location.

PREPARATION STARTS NOW Adapting to change is a process. The best way to position your asphalt plant for a successful future is to start preparing now. There are already systems and technologies available for asphalt plants that enable more RAP usage or more data integration. Asphalt plants should already be finding ways to improve their operations for the future, especially as battling climate change becomes central to conversations in our country.

"Each stakeholder (producer, plant manufacturer, local DOT jurisdiction, testing labs, laydown crews, etc) has a role in preparing for potential changes to how climate will influence our industry," Lavenberg says. “Production and process technologies are here today for adapting to whatever comes next."

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PRODUCTION NOTES Astec BG 1800 Modular Batch Plant

MINDS, Inc. PlantManager Dashboard The PlantManager gives plant owners a 30,000 ft bird’s eye view of your company's plants all in one powerful dashboard to help them spot issues at a glance and drill down into production and job data.

• Multi-plant dashboard with all key numbers per location • Individual plant production details allow you to see real-time and historical of all production data like flow rate, tonnage, RAP, liquid asphalt and aggregate percentage and moisture, temperatures, deviations, etc.

• Individual plant energy details measure current and historical energy consumption in KWh/T, BTUs/T, or Therms/T so plant owners can compare actual energy use with theoretical need based on mix and ambient temperatures, moisture and type of fuel • Individual plant trucking enables the review of truck rotations and ticket information for each job • View information on the desktop, tablet, or mobile devices • Current and historical data enabling comparison and improvement ForConstructionPros. com/21117844

The BG 1800 Batch Plant series features a modular design that is fully customizable to meet the needs of the plant owner.

• Can produce up to 70% RAP • Easy set-up • Perfect for municipalities who need to produce many different mix designs ForConstructionPros.com/21064699

Meeker Transfer Conveyor The Meeker 500-TPH transfer conveyor features bolt in Ni-Hard cast floor liners, removable flop gate system, electric heat on floor, Rex planetary gearbox, bin indicator on headshaft and split return rollers.

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BROCK Dryer/ Mixer Drum BROCK Industries will now be one of only two companies building this style of dryer/mixer drum.

• As a result, BROCK now offers the market a viable option for drum replacement and/or refurbishment in this style drum • BROCK also offers in field construction services for hot mix asphalt plants including repairs, maintenance and plant relocation services

CMI Cedarapids Magnum 250 Counterflow Drum Mixer Cedarapids Magnum 250 SuperPortable counterflow drum-mix plant can produce up to 250 tph with 35% RAP capability.

• The Magnum series has been redesigned with many upgrades including new high efficiency drying and mixing zones, railroad bearing trunnion roller assemblies, direct drive gearmotors and drum insulation and cladding as standard

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Blue Smoke Control X-VOCS Asphalt Plant Odor Control The Blue Smoke Control division of Butler-Justice Inc. created X-VOCS to help eradicate odor-causing emissions produced as a by-product during hot-mix asphalt production.

• The X-VOCS System features proprietary carbon absorption technology designed to filter and remove up to 99 percent of odors and VOCs, such as Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S), from tanks • X-VOCS incorporates a five-stage filtration system. In the first three stages, a series of filters remove more than 95 percent of targeted particulates down to 0.3 microns. In the final two stages, carbon filtration beds remove remaining odors and volatiles • Ideal for new plants, and also is easily retrofittable into existing operations

• To aid a rapid installation time, the Magnum Super-Portables are fitted with large full width chassis support pad assemblies to distribute the load evenly thus minimizing site foundations and craneage ForConstructionPros. com/21109868

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Earthwave Technologies E-Ticketing Helps Meet DOT Requirements and Improve Paving Efficiencies tickets. Some have even been mandated by state DOT’s to scrap paper tickets altogether and fully adopt e-ticketing.

Paperless ticketing is a feature that has gained a lot of popularity over the years with HMA contractors and state department of transportation officials, especially amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. E-ticketing produces individual scale tickets electronically and provides material haul summaries for state-funded roadway projects.

Since the rise of the virus, many companies have made the switch to virtual ticketing systems over traditional paper

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These changes have not only allowed contractors to adapt to health concerns but also realize the efficiency that the electronic systems provide. Being the leading provider of e-ticketing, FleetWatcher has helped many paving contractors prevent issues like lost tickets and time-consuming ticket sorting.

All while giving them the ability to easily access tickets and track production. E-ticketing is also environmentally friendly because there is no paper used in the process. Many contractors now digitally store information and have said goodbye to overflowing filing cabinets that

take up valuable time and office space.

FleetWatcher also offers a Virtual Shift Ticketing System (VSTs) that records when drivers are on the clock, what kind of loads they are hauling, and how many tons per truck there are on a job site. Typically, the foreman is responsible for signing drivers in and out, and tickets go several days before they are reviewed, leaving room for errors. With VSTs, everything is recorded in real-time, and tickets can be easily accessed through the FleetWatcher website. No more paperwork needed.

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JOBSITE INNOVATIONS |

JESSICA LOMBARDO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Heavy Equipment Operator Program Helping to Advance Careers in

CONSTRUCTION

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Programs all over the country are working to fill the pipeline with trade school graduates.

Here’s why Ocean County Vocational Technical School amped up their program for these in-demand careers

I

n 2011, only 13% of construction business owners reported cost and availability of labor as a significant problem. Fast forward to 2020 and the share increased to 85%. That means in any given month, there is a shortage of 200,000 to 300,000 workers. This labor shortage has far-reaching implications for worker safety and construction quality—which could adversely impact the entire industry if investments are not made to address the issue.

Thankfully, trade schools all over the country are stepping up and creating programs to help fill the pipeline with workers. Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) recently launched the Heavy Equipment Operators Program (HEOP) at their school, becoming just the second program in the state of New Jersey to help make careers in the construction industry a priority.

"Over the past few years it is no secret that more and more youth have been steered toward college. Less students are exposed to the opportunities available for career entry and advancement through traditionally “blue collar”/ trade related occupations. There is an opportunity for students to earn and learn and vocational technical schools can help facilitate that process by providing the foundation for employment

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JOBSITE INNOVATIONS

Industry partners like Eosso Brothers Paving have helped advance the Heavy Equipment Operator Program by allowing students to use their equipment and learn from their experts.

and serve as a catalyst to advance in their career by developing programing in consultation with industry that will allow students to continue to return and upskill/advance in the career," Gary MacDonald, OCVTS’ director of curriculum and grants says. "These occupations are essential for local economic development, often offer pathways to advanced training (such as apprenticeships), and support an individual’s professional growth if they chose to advance in the trade. Skilled employees have the opportunity to earn a good income and those who are truly ambitious can use those skills to advance in an organization or establish their own business."

Launched in 2020, the OCVTS's HEOP has 31 students who are enrolled on a “shared-time” basis in the first year of the program. This means that they spend half of their school day in a local comprehensive high school and attend OCVTS, usually beginning in 11th grade, for trade-related technical instruction for the other half of their day. The total length of the program is two years or 900 hours. OCVTS is expecting all 31 to return for the second year and enrolling another cohort of first year students. The total enrollment of the program could potentially double next year.

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ATTRACTING STUDENTS & CREATING THE CURRICULUM The OCVTS is very involved with business, industry and their related associations. Through their advisory meetings with local companies, the school learned of an emerging demand to find skilled labor in the heavy equipment operator industry.

The demand for this program was driven locally by an aging workforce and an increase in construction and development in the region. But they had to get the students interested first.

"It was very important for us to seek industry involvement from the onset of the program's concept," MacDonald says. "Companies such as Eosso Brothers Paving, Earle Asphalt Company, Terminal Construction Corporation and Esposito Construction have played an important role as advisors in developing the program and recruiting potential students for the program. Industry associations host career fairs and events throughout the region, companies often participate to explain the opportunities available and OCVTS representatives attend to explain the training programs available that can help put the students on that career path.

"At OCVTS, our Student Services department has a strong relationship

with the guidance counselors in local high schools. We routinely host professional development sessions to update them on the career training programs available to the students in the region,” MacDonald continues. “Our industry partners have participated in those meetings and fill a critical role as the potential employer. They are able to answer questions about the local employment opportunities, earning potential and opportunities for advancement in the career. In that sense, they are able to provide input on the skills needed for students to seamlessly transition into their respective companies."

Once they knew they had industry support and student buy-in, OCVTS went about implementing the curriculum. OCVTS is using the National Center for Construction Education & Research curriculum which is a nationally recognized program that the school adapted to their needs. The program allows students to be certified and be recognized as being at the same skill level as others who have taken this program across the country.

"We wanted to build a program that aligns not only with preparing high school students to enter the field, but we also wanted to put them on a path towards apprenticeship because we also offer technical instruction for apprenticeships at the vocational school for adults," MacDonald says.

The program is broken down into modules where the first year of work focuses a lot on safety and basic identification of the equipment. At level two you get into more of the science of the actual heavy equipment, how they run, how they operate, the techniques, etc. OCVTS also uses simulators in their classroom to help teach their students how to operate these machines in a no-risk environment.

Karen Homiek, superintendent of OCVTS, explains the significance of partnering with industry.

“When we were looking at a Heavy Equipment Operator Program as a possibility, we connected with Earle Asphalt Company at the same time.

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JOBSITE INNOVATIONS

Eosso Brothers Project manager Thomas Napurano working and teaching students laser level and digging around pipes. Students Ben Brenner, Luke Wilson, Stryder Raybander and Joston Hernandez pictured here with Napurano (far left) and Tom Eosso (far right)

Michael Earle shared with us his concerns for an aging workforce and the lack of new men and women entering the industry. He felt that the loss of knowledge that would take place if there were no opportunities for veteran operators to transfer that knowledge to the new workforce would be a loss to the trade. Fortunately for us, he was committed to attracting new people into the industry. His organization made a financial donation that allowed us to leverage philanthropic support and Perkins grant funding to acquire the

simulators that are the foundation for skills’ development in this program."

And the simulators have been vital to the program and student understanding.

"These simulators were donated by our partners and act just like the real equipment," Joe Moore, HEOP instructor adds. "It's the greatest way for someone to gain experience in a safe way.

Equipment is expensive and mistakes out there could be fatal with that piece of heavy equipment. The simulators tell

you when you do something wrong or if you created an error and that you need to make corrections."

OCVTS has a simulator for a backhoe, skidsteer, forklift, excavator and more. Students finish tasks on each simulator which will show them their skill level so they know what level they should be at before they could operate a heavy piece of equipment. Students will spend 120 hours operating the simulator.

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PROVIDING REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE While simulators are great for beginners, operators know that to really learn how to run a piece of machinery, you have to get your hands on them. This is where partner companies like Eosso Brothers Paving come in.

"In 2020, my brothers and I were discussing Eosso Brothers growth strategy. We discussed that our current team is dedicated and loyal, but we are aging and it is taking toll on our crews," Tom Eosso, CEO of Eosso Brothers Paving says. "Our leadership team was discussing a lack of young men and women in our industry, we created a video to focus on vocational students and high school students not looking to go to college. We feel passionate about our industry and feel that without the younger generation the trades will have a hard time."

Eosso Brothers Paving donated two machines to the program; a skid steer and a 10-ton asphalt roller, both machines in need of some work. The vocational school also has an auto mechanic shop where they will get training by repairing these two pieces of equipment, they also have a paint department which will repaint them.

But Eosso Brother's didn't stop there.

The company worked with Moore and MacDonald at OCVTS to orchestrate an equipment demonstration day at the school. The company transported over 10 pieces of heavy equipment for students to explore and interact with that day which took over an entire acre of the parking facility at the Jackson location. Included in this massive display were an excavator, backhoe, dozer, dump truck, milling machine, paver, roller and a road grader. Students were treated to a full orientation to these sophisticated

machines- then had the opportunity to interact with them under the guidance of Eosso Brothers’ team of skilled operators.

At the end of the day, the students, the OCVTS staff and the Eosso Brothers team were energized with opportunities for these students.

"The whole exhibition surpassed my expectations," Moore says. "The HEOP students enthusiasm reflected their appreciation of today's presentation.

I spend many hours in the classroom teaching from textbooks, lecturing and showing videos describing the various types of heavy equipment. Additionally explaining the maintenance and safety skills expected of heavy equipment operators. The demonstration presented

by Eosso Brothers covered all the topics and more in a few hours. This experience helped students to envision their future as heavy equipment operators.

The students hands-on introduction to

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JOBSITE INNOVATIONS

the different types of equipment and operation and interactions with Eosso employees was an invaluable source of learning."

THE FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY NEEDS SUPPORT Programs like these don't happen without industry support however.

"Every contractor is struggling with hiring and getting new employees, all you hear is the young generation are lazy, they don’t want to work," Eosso says. "This HEOP program will give the younger generation a vision to the future in the construction industry.

Companies are in need of young talent and are trying to attract new employees.

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This program will help all companies and any way they can donate or assist the HEOP program with equipment or training will only benefit the industry."

It took a collaborative effort to get the program off the ground and to get students engaged.

"The key to the success of these type of programs is the relationship between the industry and the educational partner," MacDonald says. "We just so happened to gain a tremendous amount of support from the industry right at the onset, as soon as we went out to start talking to people like Tom Eosso and Micheal Earle, they just jumped right on board to support the program's development. The industry and education came together to inform parents, students and guidance counselors on the opportunities that are available in this industry and how you get there.

"You have the industry people saying, 'this is your earning potential or the career ladder you can go through' and you have OCVTS saying 'here's the education that you get to get there.'

That leads to people realizing that there are relevant, real world opportunities available now to students who want to

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Contractors all over the country are struggling to find workers. Programs like this engage the younger generation with an industry that can provide endless opportunities for them.

take advantage of it. We started several programs recently, but none of them have seen the growth or the start the way that this program did. And I think that it was attributed to how much the industry came together with us on this."

If you're a construction business owner struggling in your area to find the workers you need, consider reaching out to your local technical school.

"I would imagine that there's a lot of companies out there, that if somehow they were able to connect with their counterparts to us in their region, they could probably pull a program like this together," MacDonald adds. "The key is really getting everybody on board. As an educator, I believe that it is really important to encourage students to pursue a path whether it's directly to college or directly to work that is best for them. Neither path is finite.

Both paths should focus on a career as an outcome. No matter what…in order to advance…you need to continuously learn, adapt, demonstrate resilience, communicate and be a team player."

And it's important to start the conversations with these students, their parents and guidance counselors at every age.

"My brothers and I feel we were fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn at a young age. The young generation does not have the opportunity to learn so when a young person starts in the construction industry, they start as a laborer and shovel.

This is where we are losing the kids," Eosso says. "They want to operate but don’t get the chance and they give up and get out of the industry. With these programs, students will have an opportunity like me and my brothers had to learn to operate at a young age and to build successful and rewarding careers around these skills."

For more on recruiting the next generation, visit ForConstructionPros.com/21118186

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JOBSITE INNOVATIONS BOMAG Cedarapids CR 1030 Asphalt Pavers

Dynapac CA1300 & CA1400 Soil Compactors The CA1300 and CA1500 single drum soil rollers feature Active Bouncing Control (ABC) that prevents damage and prolongs roller life by eliminating drum double jump or over-compacting.

• Tier 4 Interim engines (CA1300 offered with 75-hp Tier 4 Final engine) • ECO fuel-saving system minimizes fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions • Electronic drive control with "quick brake" function and automatic vibration control • Thick drum shell extends running time before drum change is required • Cross-mounted engine gives optimal weight distribution and ease of transportation ForConstructionPros. com/11322579

Sakai SW994ND Vibratory Roller The SW9994ND oscillatory (OSC)/vibratory tandem roller provides dual drum oscillation and vibration.

• Enables switching on the fly from vibe for high compaction efforts to OSC for smooth finish of the pavement surface • Optimized dual drum OSC achieves target density of thin lift pavement (1 to 1.5 in.) in fewer passes and increases paving train speed • OSC achieves density on no-vibe jobs where structural integrity is a concern

The 260-hp CR 1030 W wheeled paver has a standard 16.7-ton hopper capacity, or up to a 27-ton capacity with an insert, while the 225-hp CR 1030 T Series track model has a 14-ton hopper capacity or up to 22 tons with insert.

• Stretch 20 hydraulically extendible screed enables infinitely variable paving widths from 10 to 20 ft. and a maximum paving width of 30 ft. with extensions • Dual swing-out operator stations with SIDEVIEW enables seat and console to swivel outward at four differing angles • Large, 7-in. multifunction color screen display at each console ForConstructionPros.com/21076258

HAMM C Series Compaction Equipment The HAMM C Series models for earthwork are equipped with a reinforced hydrostatic drive and deliver up to 30% more torque which means their traction and climbing ability are even better than that of the standard models, enabling them to tackle inclines in excess of 60%.

• These models are equipped to deal with heavy earthwork, landfill construction and the compaction of cohesive soils • Fuel consumption in the C models is almost identical to that in models without reinforced drives because all rollers have the same diesel engine • High level of torque is also impressive when using the dozer blade ForConstructionPros.com/21122292

Willow Designs Notch Wedge Pneumatic Roller Willow Designs Notch Wedge Pneumatic Solid Wheel Roller is designed to achieve compaction of the "wedge" part of the notch wedge joint.

• The Willow Designs Notch Wedge Pneumatic Roller is designed to work with our Notch Wedge Systems only.

A simple update allows your current systems to work with the Notch Wedge Pneumatic Roller • A pressurized tank is fitted to the top of the Notch Wedge Pneumatic Roller for release agent. When paving starts, the screed operator sprays the release agent on the pneumatic tire till it comes up to temperature. From this point, applying release agent is only periodic throughout the shift • Designed to be pulled from either side of the paver, with a fully adjustable pull point to accommodate front or rear extend screeds ForConstructionPros.com/21075919

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PRESERVATION UPDATE |

JESSICA LOMBARDO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Using Reclaimed Asphalt for Pavement Preservation Surface

TREATMENTS

Agencies and practitioners have adapted typical practices to get similar performance from RAP as compared to virgin aggregates on their preservation projects

A

t the end of 2020, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) released a new report that outlines the success of using Reclaimed Asphalt Pavements (RAP) in pavement preservation treatments. The FHWA documented case studies, best practices, applicable tests, costs and specifications for RAP in pavement-preservation treatments, such as chip sealing, slurry sealing and microsurfacing.

Greg Duncan, senior engineer at Applied Pavement Technology, Inc., recently presented a webinar with the FHWA and described how agencies and practitioners have adapted typical practices to get similar performance with RAP as compared to virgin aggregates with preservation treatments.

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THE VALUE OF RAP We know that RAP is a valuable byproduct and we know we have a lot of it available to us. According to a 2019 survey by the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) in partnership with the FHWA, our industry reclaimed 97 million tons of RAP for future use.

Using RAP instead of virgin materials not only saves scarce resources like aggregates, but it is also environmentally sustainable and cost effective.

Still, most contractors are only using 10-30% RAP in their asphalt mixtures for new construction which has created an abundance of RAP piles around the country. Since these materials improve sustainablility and decrease costs, many have thought it would make sense to use them for pavement preservation treatments.

Agencies turned to chip sealing, slurry sealing, and—less commonly— microsurfacing to cost-effectively use reclaimed materials and reduce otherwise growing RAP stockpiles.

RAP IN CHIP SEALS A chip seal is an asphalt binder (commonly an emulsion) sprayed directly to a pavement surface followed by an application of aggregate chips, which are immediately rolled to ensure embedment.

Aggregate retention is a construction and performance issue for chip seals.

The chip seal design process for RAP is largely the same in that the material reacts similarly to applications where a pre-coated aggregate was used but the aggregates need to be processed differently for RAP applications. For use in these preservation processes, RAP must be crushed and screened into single-sized coarse aggregate and fines and RAP stockpiles cannot have metal, fiber or soil contamination.

From the experience of contractors putting down chip seals with recycled materials, there are very small changes that need to happen during application in order to make the material perform as well as virgin resources. Contractors found that chip seal emulsion and

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application rates for RAP treatments required little alteration from those used for virgin treatments and performed comparatively.

The studies have also found that using RAP in chip seals created better aggregate bond and case studies also found that the texture remained blacker for longer.

RAP IN SLURRY SEALS & MICROSURFACING A slurry seal is a mixture of wellgraded aggregate (e.g., fine sand and mineral filler) and an asphalt emulsion spread over the entire width of a pavement surface with either a squeegee or spreader box attached to the back of a truck. A microsurface is a mixture of crushed, well-graded aggregate, mineral filler (e.g., portland cement) and latexmodified asphalt emulsion spread over the entire width of a pavement surface with either a squeegee or spreader box attached to the back of a truck.

While RAP use in slurry seals have been used less than RAP and chip seals, findings have also been positive.

RAP slurry seals and microsurfaces had similar design requirements to RAP chip seals but more restrictive material specifications and more equipment requirements during application.

A benefit of using RAP as the aggregate source in slurry seals is a higher total asphalt content compared to virgin mixes—even though less emulsion is required to reach optimum design properties. The increased asphalt content provides better resistance to cracking and raveling and results in smoother surfaces and better-bonded longitudinal seams.

Using less asphalt content further saves contractors money. In fact, the studies found that incorporating too much asphalt in chip seals, slurry seals and microsurfaces increased bleeding under loads. Alternatively, higher asphalt contents also increased resistance to aging, oxidation and raveling.

When using RAP in slurry and microsurfacing applications, contractors did find that this process required additional rolling with a pneumatic roller to set the materials more appropriately.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

ACON0621_52-53_Pres_JD.indd 53

RAP & PAVEMENT PRESERVATION USE-CASES A few agencies in California have put these treatments to the test and have been pleased with the outcomes.

According to the study, agencies in California have been using reclaimed asphalt pavement aggregate (RAGG) in chip seals with positive results. A chip seal composed of RAGG and PG 76-22 tire-rubber-modified asphalt binder was used in the Lake Los Angeles area in 2013. The objective of this project, funded by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, was to determine whether nonpreheated 0.375-in. and 0.3125-in. RAGG were as compatible as virgin aggregate. Despite a few construction issues, such as variable/high moisture content, RAGG cleanliness on the first day of the project, and adverse weather conditions, the chip seal continues to perform positively.

Los Angeles Country (LAC) specifically has been leading the way in using recycled materials in their pavement preservation. According to the FHWA report, LAC’s switch from conventional to sustainable practices saved over $52 million and reduced greenhouse gases substantially. Since 2009, LAC’s RAP use has grown such that, in 2018, approximately 35 percent of LAC’s annual pavement-program budget was spent on RAP pavement-preservation treatments.

In San Bernadino County (SBC), aggregate supply is scarce in less populated areas. For example, conventional chip seals often require hauling materials over 100 miles to project destinations so using RAGG was a popular idea they started in 2014.

SBC applies chip seals with a specialized crew and contracts for emulsion and aggregate delivery to the project site. The RAGG can be delivered to the crew during construction or a few days prior to construction depending on their expected production rate.

What they found was that there was actually lower chip loss using RAGG compared to virgin aggregate.

The asphalt film on the RAP chips

may enhance bonding, and the fine particles on the chips may act as a choke stone, increasing texture density and reducing chip loss. SBC saved money on chip seal projects by allowing contractors to bid RAGG as a substitute for virgin materials with some projects seeing cost savings more than 25 percent. They also discovered that performance characteristics for chip seal were similar whether RAGG or virgin aggregate was used.

CONCLUSIONS RAP maybe a cost-effective alternative depending on what the business climate is in your area. You need to find owners of RAP piles that have more of a stockpile than use for the material.

Agencies and contractors both stockpile RAP as a byproduct of milling asphalt surfaces and producing excess material at asphalt plants. Most RAP owners are eager to cost-effectively reuse RAP in as many projects as possible if it does not jeopardize performance or service life and use in pavement preservation further extends those benefits.

These technologies are rapidly increasing across the country with states and agencies deploying the use of RAP in surface treatments. Many are encouraged by the findings that these materials are performing well while reducing costs. Look for these type of treatments to expand in your area and try to find ways to be on the forefront of these applications.

For more information on RAP, visit ForConstructionPros. com/21129747

JUNE/JULY 2021 ASPHALT CONTRACTOR

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PRESERVATION UPDATE BOMAG BM 2200/75 Milling Machine

Wirtgen Large Milling Machines The W 200i, W 200 Hi, W 210i, W 220i and W 250i offer working widths of 4 ft. 11 in. to 14 ft. 4 in., and can remove pavements to a maximum working depth of 14 in.

• Can roughen surfaces, level substrates, produce plane surfaces with millimeter accuracy and remove tunnel floors • Twin-engine drive concept allows operators to use engine power on demand when needed • W 220i with FCS Light includes different-sized milling drums and milling units with working widths of 7 ft. 3 in. and 8 ft. 2 in.

ForConstructionPros. com/12304950

Caterpillar Updated Cold Planers The PM620, PM622, PM820, PM822 and PM825 half-lane cold planers include numerous improvements to ease operation and lower owning and operating costs. The 630-hp PM620 and PM622 are powered by the Cat C18 engine, while the PM820, PM822 and PM825 feature the same engine but with a twin-turbo setup to deliver 5800.6 hp. The five models meet Tier 4 Final standards and include a highcapacity cooling system that keeps the engine at optimal temperatures for fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

• Weigh from 73,260 to 82,650 lbs. with cutting widths from 79 to 98.6 in.

ForConstructionPros. com/21415523

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ASPHALT CONTRACTOR JUNE/JULY 2021

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With its 760.3-hp diesel engine, the BM 2200/75 milling machine delivers highperformance half-lane milling at 86.6-in. widths and depths to 13.8 in.

• A range of quick-change milling drums options, from fine to standard to power for tough applications, are available to meet specific requirements • 35.4-in.-wide conveyor folds hydraulically for transport, and the upper conveyor swivels 60° left or right to fill trucks to either side • BMS 15 holder is designed to extend tooth life up to 30% and reduces the time required to change teeth ForConstructionPros.com/12299554

Chemtek NeSilex Silica Dust Suppressant

The CSV does not require a permit to transport so the unit can be transported legally at all hours with an 8-ft. 6-in. maximum transport width.

• Cummins Tier 4 Final engine • Variable width spread hopper from 1-ft. to 16-ft.

• Application rate control, even while chipping • Features allow for excellent clean out ability • Left side features full controls with a right side remote control station

NeSilex is formulated specifically to reduce worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust.

• Recommended for any dust-producing construction activity including: milling, sweeping, crushing, mining, sawing, jackhammering, earthmoving and grading • Contains specially formulated surfactants, wetting and agglomerating agents causing dust particulates to saturate and attract to each other • Initial testing has shown up to 100% reduction in respirable silica dust

ForConstructionPros. com/12313480

ForConstructionPros. com/20990518

Rosco CSV VariableWidth Chip Spreader

Roadtec SX-8e/ex Soil Stabilizer-Reclaimer

• • • •

The 82,000-lb. SX-8e/ex is capable of cutting up to 20 in. deep and 100 in. wide and is designed for road rehabilitation, cold recycling, or soil stabilization.

Rotor designed for milling and mixing the most resistant soils completely and homogeneously Variable geometry cutter housing enables the unit to achieve material gradation with each pass 755-hp Caterpillar C18 Tier 4i (SX-8e) or 700-hp Caterpillar C18 Tier 3 (SX-8ex) Air-shift four-speed transmission

ForConstructionPros.com/20973546

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

5/25/21 9:59 AM

CLASSIFIEDS 

       

        

Contact Tadashi Soma Print and Digital Advertising

 

        

Stop your pumps from leaking!

  

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 

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 

         

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Pre-cut packing sets proven within the Asphalt Industry.

Viking®, Roper, Rotan, etc.

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HIGH AND UNEVEN AMPERAGE TRUNNION SLIDING VIBRATION AND WASHBOARD

WE CAN HELP! TIRE / TRUNNION RESURFACING AND ALIGNMENT SPECIALISTS

570-779-1982 www.evansanddaniels.com www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

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5/25/21 10:02 AM

CLASSIFIEDS

A

A

A

A

B

C

D

E

E

E

G

IG

K

K

L

L

M

M

N

P

P

56

ASPHALT CONTRACTOR JUNE/JULY 2021

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www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

5/25/21 10:02 AM

t

CLASSIFIEDS

Index Advertiser Index

PAGE

Advertiser Index

PAGE

ALMix

9

R&D Hydraulics Mfg. & Machine Co.

57

Asphalt Drum Mixers Inc. (ADM)

21

Rains-Flo Manufacturing

55

Astec Inc.

30-31, 60

Reliable Asphalt Products

56

Bomag Americas

27

SealMaster

2

Caterpillar, Inc.

45

Site Safe

17

Dynapac North America

11

Systems Equipment

35

Eager Beaver Trailers

59

Tarmac International, Inc.

49

Earthwave Technologies

40-41

Weiler Products

19

Evans & Daniels Inc.

55

Wirtgen America Inc.

13, 39

Gencor Industries Inc.

3, 5

IGNITE Construction Summit

51

Kenco Engineering, Inc.

37

KTP Enterprise. Fast Measure

55

LeeBoy, Inc.

7

Libra Systems Corp.

47

Meeker Equipment Co. Inc.

23

Minds, Inc.

25

NAPA

48

Pegasus Vans & Trailers, Inc.

29

Process Heating Co.

46

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

ACON0621_55-57_Classifieds.indd 57

Get fast, relevant product information in the Buyers Guide at

ForConstructionPros.com JUNE/JULY 2021 ASPHALT CONTRACTOR

57

5/25/21 10:02 AM

THE LAST EXIT

David Brian Ward is the CEO and founder of Safe Site Check In.

C

OSHA’s 11: Enforcement Changes Coming to a Construction Jobsite Near You

hanges at OSHA, combined with the rise in construction technology, are bound to have a ripple effect throughout the industry. Here’s a look at 11 recent and anticipated changes and their impact.

1. Biden's OSHA Appointees

Walsh, a former construction worker, states his commitment to ensuring workers feel safe on the job. He also calls for rebuilding the middle class through union membership and increasing job opportunities for women.

In January 2021 President Biden appointed Jim Frederick to lead OSHA as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health. In March, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh was confirmed to a Biden cabinet position as the Labor Secretary.

6. Jobsite Compliance/ Enforcement

2. More Inspectors Ahead

The pandemic is not over, despite higher percentages of the population getting vaccinated. COVID-19 variants abound and a recent survey reports that only 53% of construction workers are likely to get a vaccine.

With a renewed focus on enforcing the law and existing standards and guidelines, OSHA plans to double its number of inspectors.

3. Uncertainty Over Emergency Temporary Standard While some states have established a COVID-19 workplace standard, the construction industry watches and waits if the national emergency temporary standard (ETS) moves out of its current pause status.

4. Infrastructure Investment The proposed $2 trillion infrastructure bill has earmarked billions of dollars to fix highways, rebuild bridges and roads and upgrade road safety, ports, airports and transit systems. Additionally, the plan calls for building, preserving and retrofitting more than two million affordable homes and commercial buildings, as well as modernizing schools and childcare facilities, and upgrading veterans’ hospitals and federal buildings.

58

5. Commitment to Workers

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More inspectors on jobsites will drive general contractors (GC) to closely examine how they enforce compliance and avoid formal complaints.

7. Resistance to Vaccine

8. Ongoing Skills Shortage The construction industry skills shortage shows no signs of abating. According to the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), construction companies will need to hire at least 430,000 more workers this year, with the potential for that number to get as high as one million. Meanwhile, employee retention remains an issue, with ADP reporting a 21.4% turnover rate in the construction industry. Retention becomes an even higher priority for GCs that took PPP loans and want the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) on their taxes.

9. Supply Chain Challenges The supply chain continues to be challenged. The price of lumber has been steadily increasing since January 2020. This is followed by rising costs of drywall and steel. Adding to this is

the long-term effects of shipping delays going back to late 2020, exacerbated by the more recent incident with the container ship Ever Given getting stuck in the Suez Canal. Expect to see continued delays in the delivery of construction materials and heavy equipment. In turn, prices will soar.

10. Technology Revolution Many of these challenges are already being addressed through technology.

It’s no secret that the construction industry is in the middle of a technology revolution. According to McKinsey, venture capitalists are investing more in construction tech than any other sector. In large part, this is due to the democratization of technology, skills shortage and the ongoing infrastructure issues. It’s the pandemic that accelerated technology’s adoption among GCs. For example, digital check-in apps support social distancing and contact tracing, while eliminating paper sign in forms and face-to-face health screenings, making it easy to abide by an ETS.

2

w

11. Opportunities Ahead Today there are tremendous opportunities in construction, but not at the risk of hefty fines, razor thin margins and insufficiently staffed projects. Investing in modern construction technology, from simple-to-use check in apps to more comprehensive platforms, can give GCs an advantage.

David Brian Ward is the CEO and founder of Safe Site Check In.

For more information on OSHA Regulations, visit ForConstructionPros. com/21319158

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Asphalt

5/25/21 10:04 AM

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