Best Practices for Residential and Commercial Paving

Caterpillar offers the follow steps to set up your paver and screed before each job to improve machine performance and hit targets: • Heat screed • Set tow points • Set paving width • Set crown height • Set extender height • Set extender slope • Set screen and remove slack • Null the screed • Position end gates • Set auger height • Position feeder sensors • In low idle, fill auger chamber • Adjust feeder controls • Set accessory functions • Pull of starting reference

Utilizing technology such as grade control equipment or string/paint lines can optimize success. Also, remember other key factors such as: • Fewest number of tie-ins • Truck entrance and exit • Pave your way out • Keep your roller busy

The Screed is the Money Maker

Hall described the paver as two machines, "the front part with the engine is the workhorse and the screed is the money maker." The screed is crucial for both the quality and density of an asphalt mat. With this in mind, equipment owners need to make sure their screed is properly maintained in order to ensure the quality of the pavement.

Check and adjust flight screws, extensions and crown. "Zero out" electric screws, set up and check automatic grade controls, set end gates to meet job requirements and always spray the screed before lighting burners.

"Remember that the screed needs time to react to the change in angle," said Hall. "When you adjust the screed give yourself five tow arms to see the change, don't be a willmill Johnny. Let that screed work for you."

The Finishing Touches

It is important to end the day the way it started, with a maintenance routine. Proper cleaning and maintenance will prolong the life of your equipment and reduce downtime or wasted labor wages. • Remove excess asphalt from the paver • Clean and spray components like auger and conveyor chains • Run conveyors and spray with release agent • Add fuel at night • Grease necessary parts

All manufacturers have preventive maintenance guidelines, so reference that for any questions that may arise. "This is the life of your machine and the livelihood of your company," added Hall.

When working on a commercial lot, paving around obstacles such as islands and catch basins are normal. Attention to detail is important to deliver the results customers expect.

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