New Asphalt Products May 2007

The new 1448 Plus and 1648 Plus asphalt pavers feature fully-extendable screed extensions that allow the machines to be adapted easily to different job applications, such as driveways, recreational ball courts, bike paths and parking lots.

A full-floating, adjustable and vibratory screed is standard on both Power Box models. The screed's 8-foot length and 13-inch width provides a solid foundation for smooth, accurate and finished asphalt mats. Crown and invert pitch adjustments are provided through screw-type jacks located at the center and ends of the main screed assembly. These adjustments allow the operator to maintain a consistent depth and develop drainage contours within the mat.

To heat the screed, the 1648 Plus uses a propane burner system. By preheating the screed, asphalt is prevented from bonding to the screed's wear plate and scoring mat finish. The 1448 Plus uses the engine exhaust to heat the screed with propane-heated screed as optional.

Other features on the pavers include an electronic control module and reduced noise levels. The module provides an automatic preheat timer and audible warning alarms. It displays indicator lights for engine temperature, engine oil pressure, battery and engine preheat.

Noise levels have been reduced by three decibels compared to past models, making these pavers more comfortable to operate and reducing operator fatigue.

The Gehl 1448 Plus asphalt paver is powered by a 36-horsepower Yanmar water-cooled diesel engine; the 1648 Plus Asphalt Paver is powered by a 48-horsepower Yanmar water-cooled diesel engine. Both engines have EPA Tier III capability.

Other improvements include a new side-by-side design for the hydraulic oil cooler, which increases cooling capability on the 1648 Plus model. A separate cooler is dedicated to the drive system. The speed control lever was changed from a 13-step lever to an "infinitely-variable" lever, making travel speed easier to control.

The ground drive is a direct-drive type track design that will not slip under normal/severe conditions. This provides the customer more versatility in different sub-base conditions. This system self-cleans, and it tensions itself with the aid of a hydraulic cylinder. Track pads are made from cast steel, providing the customer both durability and long-term reliability.

Operator visibility is excellent with the low-backwall design. This allows the operator to easily see the asphalt hopper, truck position and front mainframe area when paving, thereby increasing productivity and safety.

A front lip has been added to the asphalt hopper to retain asphalt within the paver's hopper assembly as the truck unloads and pulls away. This protects the ground drive system from undue contamination and produces a more even-finished mat.

Both pavers have excellent serviceability with access from both sides of the engine. This provides easy access to hoses and other components for simple maintenance. With the engine access panel removed, access to the alternator and starter is unobstructed. Many competitive units require the engine assembly to be removed for service.

For efficient transportation, units have fold-up hopper wings, resulting in an overall width of 8 feet 6 inches. This requires less trailer space and allows room for additional equipment, such as an asphalt roller.

HAMM HD 14 VV Compactor
The new 4.6-ton HD 14 VV from HAMM is an articulated asphalt compator which offer vibration in both the front and rear drums. VV stands for "vibration front, vibration rear," with the capability of vibration running in the front drum only, rear drum only, in both drums, or no vibration. Unit has a working width of 56.3 inches when offset and a drum width of 54.3 inches. Unit is powered by a 40-hp Hatz Model 4W35T four-cylinder turbocharged water-cooled engine. Other features include a low sound level, ergonomic driver's platform and centrifugal force of 14,625 pounds.