Use an Asphalt Paver

Knowing how to use an asphalt paver is an essential skill for any paving job. This piece of equipment has a variety of features and requires careful preparation and planning before each project. Proper paver setup is crucial to paver operation, optimum mat temperature, and rolling pattern timing. Before you start paving, make sure the machine is ready by checking all the gauges and fluid levels.

It is crucial to make sure the asphalt paver’s screed is level and free of damage. Properly leveled screeds will extend the life of paving plates and runners. A screed that is out of level will result in premature wear and negatively impact the quality of the asphalt mat.

Modern Asphalt Paver have many different parts, including a drive track, an engine, and a hopper for the asphalt. Some pavers have an auger for spreading the asphalt evenly. These augers can be operated independently or in reverse. Some pavers also feature a gearbox in the center or at the outside edge of each auger.

When using a paver, it is essential to know how to adjust the angle of attack. You can use an electric, hydraulic, or manual screw to change the angle of attack. Increasing the angle causes the screed to rise. When it reaches equilibrium, it returns to the original angle of attack. The angle of attack should not change continuously. Otherwise, it may ruin the mat.

How to Use an Asphalt Paver

An asphalt paver can be manual or automatic. The paver’s grade control is a key feature to ensure smooth pavement. It influences the angle of the screed arm and the thickness of the mat. Changing the elevation of the toe point will determine the grade of the asphalt. One inch of movement in the tow point will cause 0.125 inches of movement in the leading edge of the screed.

Choosing the right mix temperature is also crucial. Because asphalt is made of crushed stone in various particle sizes, it can segregate if not handled gently. Therefore, proper mixing and transport of the material from the truck to the paver is critical. Proper design of the material hopper is essential for maintaining proper flow of the mix from truck to paver.

Before laying the asphalt pavement, it is important to properly prepare the ground. The quality of the ground will determine the life expectancy of the pavement. It is essential to follow best practices in preparing the ground. Proper base materials such as compacted stone or asphalt base are essential for proper adhesion.

Asphalt pavements are made of stone (aggregate), sand, and additives. The binding element, or bitumen, is a sticky black substance that is semi-solid or liquid. It has high viscosity, which helps the asphalt to be flexible when paving.