COMPACT EQUIPMENT
SKID-STEER LOADERS DELIVER PERFORMANCE FOR ASPHALT PAVING WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO SPEC YOUR MACHINE FOR PAVING PROJECTS BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF
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n busy job sites with a lot of equipment and time-constrained tasks, the efficiency and versatility of the skidsteer loader with its ability to perform multiple tasks is indispensable – and asphalt paving is no exception. Able to run a range of attachments, including hydraulically demanding work tools such as cold planers, the skid-steer loader can take care of site preparation, cleanup and tricky areas in asphalt milling and paving support.
BENEFITS OF UTILIZING SKID-STEER LOADERS FOR ASPHALT PAVING SUPPORT
Versatility of the machine is key. “The fewer number of machines a pavement maintenance contractor owns or rents to get a job done, the greater the opportunity for profit,” says Sarah Peckskamp, marketing manager – loaders with Bobcat. “Skid-steer loaders have the capability to operate and alternate between dozens of function-specific attachments, including planers, sweepers, breakers, wheel saws and vibratory rollers – just think of a paving support/asphalt maintenance task and you’ll find that there’s a combination of a skid-steer loader carrier and attachment to handle it.” In addition to handling a range of tasks, a great thing about deploying a skid steer for asphalt paving work is that these machines are easy to move from job to job, says Kevin Coleman, senior project engineer from Caterpillar. Not only are they easy to move between smaller jobs, but they can trailer in and complete supporting milling or cuts ahead of the larger planers, then clean up with a broom attachment after and use a four-in-one bucket to clean up and load the millings into a truck. Skid-steer loaders can get into tight spaces that other equip-
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heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2021
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Just think of a paving support/ asphalt maintenance task and you’ll find that there’s a combination of a skid-steer loader carrier and attachment to handle it. Sarah Peckskamp Marketing Manager – Loaders, Bobcat ment can’t, Peckskamp adds. A skid steer can pivot 360 degrees to work in close quarters beside other machines or obstructions. The skid steer can also spread asphalt on surfaces, such as driveways or small roads precisely by feathering it off the bucket as it backs up to ensure even spread.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN SPEC’ING A SKID-STEER LOADER FOR ASPHALT PAVING SUPPORT
Skid-steer loaders come in a range of sizes and vary in capability – from smaller machines with basic specs, to larger machines with mighty hydraulic power for the most demanding applications. “Ensuring that the machine you are looking to purchase has the hydraulic capacity to support the gallons per hour requirements of your attachments ensures they can perform to their design and maximize productivity,” says Luke Gribble, solutions marketing manager with John Deere Construction & Forestry. Coleman agrees that the first thing you want to look for when spec’ing a skid-steer loader for asphalt paving support is hydraulic performance. You should look for a machine that delivers a high psi, as pressure is the real key; that’s what will enable
