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tracking tonnage through pavers , making repairs needed are all ways to reduce unscheduled repairs .” Contractors should also monitor reoccurring costs .
“ Watching the wear of screed plates while running the machine correctly and keeping up on adjustments will extend a paver ’ s life ,” stated Chris Smith , technical training lead with Astec Industries , Chattanooga , Tennessee . “ Other wear-item costs would be flight chains and auger segments . They just wear out with time .” Smith added : “ Keeping the chains adjusted helps extend the life , and having a consistent head of material and setting the tow points will also help . Having a consistent paving speed . Regular screed plate adjustments . Not allowing the tires or tracks to spin .”
Jobsite management of the paver can also play a major role for controlling ownership costs .
“ Ensure the crew is heating the screed at the proper time . There is no need to heat the screed long before the mix arrives on site . Utilize the machine ’ s Eco mode to de-idle the engine when not under load as well as paving at the proper RPM to maximize fuel efficiency ,” said McKay . “ Operational efficiencies are created by properly training each crew member and understanding their role . Also he helps to abide by the following : Establish and ensure that best practices are in place , choose a paver with the most flexibility and efficiency with different paving widths , look for the balance of paving width and paving speed , chose a paver that can pave at wider widths at same speed to minimize joints for higher quality mat and less time doing hand work , manage the head of material , and use the technology available on the paver .”
Technology can help keep ownership costs down . It can not only improve production quality it can control costs by ensuring greater efficiencies .
“ One example of beneficial technology , are automatic sonic sensor augers ,” Davis stated . “ This way your augers are only www . callape . com [ 16 ] 1.800.210.5923