A chain of pavers, compactors and rollers can be used in conjunction to create a ‘paving train’ that can enhance efficiencies in surfacing, compacting and finishing roads to exact specifications, using the latest technology in road construction.

The equipment from Ammann is supplied by ELB Equipment and the company’s road and compaction equipment specialist Craig Sheppard says that it is ready to supply paving trains and other road construction equipment to road construction contractors on demand. 

“A typical Ammann configuration consists of an AFW700-3 paver, AV70X tandem roller and AP240 pneumatic roller working in tandem. With a paving speed of up to 30 m a minute it is clear to see why this paver leads the paving train lineup. In addition, it is able to pave extra wide sections with up to 3 m width and deep runs of up to 300 mm deep. It also allows either electric or gas heating of the screeds depending on the requirements.

“With its advanced Pavemanager 2.0 control automated paving system the paver is able to constantly monitor the process and provides feedback to operators. It also controls many key functions for precise results.”

The screeds provide a wide range of settings with concentric flexilevers for rapid and automatic changes of the angle of attack. Side shield controls can be operated from behind the screed with a single crank to ensure safety. High compaction screeds for thick layers and roller compacted concrete can also be used. The machines are available in either four-wheel drive or six-wheel drive depending on traction requirements.

In the most common configuration of the paving train the paver is followed by a Ammann AV70X articulated tandem roller. This combines drum dimensions, frequencies and amplitudes designed to deliver optimum compaction results. The roller has two frames connected by an oscillating joint that enables crab steering on each side. The crab steering is designed to provide increased compaction output and responsiveness.

A propulsion system drives the roller and the powertrain is situated in the rear frame, with independent pumps for drive and vibration which helps provide optimal traction and compaction force.  With an operating weight of nearly 8 t the roller provides a range of amplitude, frequency and centrifugal forces to ensure correct compaction of road sub bases and surfaces. A high-capacity water tank and the ability to work on steep gradients makes the Ammann AV70X suitable for most road projects.

The last machine in the paving train is the Ammann AP240 Tier 3 pneumatic tyred roller which has a ballasting range of 9.5 t to 24 t.

The air-on-the-run system can be used to adjust tyre pressures without the operator leaving the cab. The optional Ammann Traction Control helps boost productivity on tough terrain.

“Paving trains are just a part of the solution best suited for main roads, national carriageways and freeways, while ELB Equipment’s full range of compactors, graders and other equipment ensures that there is a solution for every road requirement. Our footprint also extends throughout the region wherever roads need to be built and maintained,” concludes Sheppard.