Intuitive technology and a quick-heating screed system, which increases production while reducing crew idle time, are key features of the new Cat AP600F and AP655F pavers.
The AP600F is a wheeled paver and the AP655F is a rubber track paver equipped with a Mobil-Trac Undercarriage.
The pavers come equipped with new screed platforms, available in vibratory only, or vibratory and tamper bars. The SE50 V and SE60 V are the vibratory options, while the SE50 VT provides vibration and tamper bars. The SE50 V offers a maximum paving range of 6.5 metres (21.3 feet), the SE50 VT provides 8 metres (26.3 feet), and the SE60 V reaches 7.65 metres (25 feet).
The Tier 4 Final 173-hp (129kW) Cat C4.4 ACERT engine improves fuel economy while maintaining high performance levels. Fuel-saving Eco-mode is standard.
The power behind the new screed heating system is an integrated generator, which is another fuel-saving enhancement. The integrated generator is directly connected to the paver engine, and operates as a core part of the machine. The refined heat distribution of the SE50 and SE60 combine with the generator to bring the screed to the proper temperature in approximately 15 minutes, compared with the previous 30 to 45 minutes.
The pavers run at about 1,300 rpm while heating, compared with the more common 2,200 rpm. The lower engine rpm reduces sound levels and can enable earlier paving start times in residential areas.
Controls for new technology features are accessed through the touchscreen. The most frequently used functions are still controlled by switches.
The screed-heating system diagnostics enable uninterrupted paving in the event that a screed temperature sensor fails. The system automatically compensates, allowing consistent, uninterrupted paving.
Ratio control for the conveyors can now be controlled from the screed. Previously only the tractor operator could control the conveyor ratio. Likewise, the tractor operator can now adjust mix height for increased flexibility. A new pendant control that enables the screed operator to stand alongside the machine is also available.
Paver operators can make various screed adjustments without leaving their seats. Cat Grade Control can now be operated from the tractor consoles if desired.
A warm-up/clean-out mode runs the feeder system at a reduced speed, enabling the operator to more efficiently perform wash-down duties. It also automatically lifts the auger for simplified transport. If a crew doesn’t want to utilize all controls and the associated technology, lockouts are provided on the screed to prevent accidental access.
The AP655F includes innovative features on undercarriage options. Fully-bogied support rollers maintain contact with the surface regardless of irregularities. The oscillating bogies minimize deviations and tow-point movement, leading to smoother mats.
The Mobil-Trac System (MTS) features oscillating bogies and a rubber belt. The rubber belt is friction-driven, and is available with treaded or smooth tracks. MTS enables travel speeds that match the pace of wheeled pavers. The system essentially combines the traction of track pavers with the speed and mobility of wheeled pavers. Enhanced maneuverability is another key benefit.
The wheeled AP600F offers six-wheel drive as an option.
