APE APE December 2019 | Page 18

EXPERT ADVICE ity base than resurfacing over the old road surface. From the start, the emphasis for milling machines was to place more power to the cutting drum, which is needed to remove more material. Thus, the cutter head it- self and the cutting teeth designs became critical. The cutting teeth would dull fair- ly quickly and needed frequent replace- ment. The replacement process could cause enough downtime to greatly detract from the initial efficiency of the milling process itself. So, manufacturers worked on designs for quicker replacement, as well as increased durability of the cutting teeth. Different sized cutting drums were offered so that machines could mill at dif- ferent widths. Today’s machines and attachments are more technologically advanced. They are designed to handle any asphalt aggregates in use today. Depending on the depth of the cut, some of the larger machines can cut close to 15,000 square yards (13,000 m²) a day, at 75 feet per minute. In addition to faster speed, added pre- cision to the milling process has become important. The innovation of controls and automation has brought greater pre- cision for controlling slope, depth, and speed. There is no question that the techno- logical advancements made in microelec- tronics have benefited milling machines and attachments. Electronics designed to improve performance, include electronic sensors and a built-in cross slope. A pair of sensors can read a variety of references from 12 to 55 inches directly below the bottom of the sensor. Each sensor can be calibrated and adjusted from the ground level or at the operator’s console. The position of the rotor in relation to the grade reference can be constantly dis- played on the central controller. Changes to the elevation controls include the ad- dition of a raise/lower switch that is used when milling around obstacles. In many cases, the electronic control module mon- itors and regulates the performance of major machine systems, including speed, steering, rotor drive, and other functions. If a problem occurs, a warning is issued. “The way in which milling is performed is constantly changing and evolving, thanks to new technologies,” stated Matt White, North American sales manag- er-milling & RS for BOMAG Americas, Inc., Ridgeway, S. C. “More productive, powerful machines with improved cut- ting technology, electronics and grade control systems require much more skill in the area of electronics than ever before. This can create new challenges for opera- tors, service technicians and manufactur- ers alike.” Along with the electronic features that keep milling machines on track are the advances being made in the cutting end of the machines. The ability to change cutting drums quickly to achieve multiple cutting widths with the same machine is a benefit to contractors who may only need one machine to accomplish multiple job requirements. ...from all those times when you lugged & loaded a melter/applicator while your crew waited for the hot pour to heat up & finally cover a pavement joint Well Roll Out BOOTH 346 QuikJoint a 3 Step Fix Peel Proven - Productive - User Friendly ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Speeds Installation & Less Labor Non Tracking & No Overspill Stick Widths Heat Done Best Job Application Chart 1 in. Infill of Shallow Cracks Prior Over Banding or Sealing 2 in. Driveway Joints - Edges - Concrete Aprons - Curbs 4 in. Parking Lot Joints - Utility Cuts & Compliance State Specs. No Wait Time & No Delays 8 in. Vertical Cold Joints - Full Depth Water Tight & Denser Pavement No Tar Kettles or Pour Pots Sqs. 4 , 8 & 12 in. Pads to Fasten Reflectors - Bumpers - Markers Improves Safety & Appearance No Waste & Less Propane QuikJoint is the Best Top Finish on Your Job - Rolls are 50 feet long and Easily Trimmed On Site to Meet Your Application Contact Us: Orders - Information - Local Stocking Distributor 7968 Wesselman Road ⚫ Cleves, OH 45002 [email protected] ⚫ toll free 888.825.1917 Online store www.quikpave.com For More Information On This Advertiser Please Visit www.CallAPE.com/e-inquiry www.callape.com [18] 1.800.210.5923