Sizing Up Milling Machines

by Kim Berndtson
Created: November 17, 2006

Is a full-lane, half-lane or commercial-size machine right for your job?

Additional features to consider include onboard air compressors to operate tools for changing teeth, generators for powering lights for nighttime work and high-pressure washers to simplify cleanup and maintenance.

"There are a lot of different features on these milling machines," says Wiley. "It's important that they all match for the machine to be its most productive."

Milling out a niche

Although half-lane milling machines dominate the marketplace, small commercial-size units are beginning to carve out a niche in the industry, and their prominence is growing. Their compact size (typically cutter drums are 4 foot wide or narrower) and relatively soft footprint (with operating weights generally under 40,000 pounds) relate to greater maneuverability and transportability. Their versatility finds them in various scenarios.

"Many large contractors will have one for commercial and maintenance work such as asphalt patching and repair, bridge deck work, or any place where size and weight are a focus," says John Hood, BOMAG Americas. "Municipalities are also purchasing them for spot milling. There's really a broad variety of people who can acquire them.

"They're relatively lightweight and, as a general rule, are very easy to transport because you don't need special permits to move them and you can load and unload them in a matter of minutes," Hood adds. This can be especially beneficial for paving contractors who have to complete two or three milling jobs per day.

"The market for these mills is growing because people see more of a need to recycle and reclaim the asphalt that is in commercial areas and on smaller streets," Hood continues. "They are all aging, just like the rest of the infrastructure."