Caterpillar introduce the AP300 asphalt paver
Caterpillar have announced the launch of the new AP300 asphalt paver as a direct replacement for the successful BB 730 machine. The new, highly versatile AP300 triple-axle wheel-type paver competes in the same 6–8-tonne, 1.7m paving width class size as the BB 730 but is said to offer a number of enhancements to maximize productivity, including: high transfer speed, optimum manoeuvrability and improved tractive effort, as well as improvements to the operator interface, material handling system, and electrical and hydraulic systems, to increase machine reliability.
The AP300 is powered by a Cat 3054C DINA 4-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine that delivers a gross power of 52kW (71hp) at an operating speed of 2,200 rev/min, and meets EU Stage II emission regulations for off-road applications. Two hydrostatically driven, large-tread drive tyres propel the machine, while four bogied solid-rubber wheels on the front handle steering. The AP300’s long wheelbase provides enhanced tractive effort and stability, even on soft base materials, while an optional front-wheel assist adds hydrostatic propel power to two of the front bogie wheels, increasing rimpull and providing enhanced traction. An on-demand, 100% lockable differential system prevents slippage in any grade condition.
A dual operator’s station with sliding control console, adjustable suspension seats and retractable seat belts are standard on the AP300. The operator seats slide side-to-side and front-to-back on a pedestal frame, extending beyond the paver’s frame for greater visibility and precise paver control. Optional grade and slope controls are available, providing full control for both longitudinal grade and transverse slope when operating to a single reference, with correction directly related to the magnitude of the surface deviation.
Precise mix delivery and productivity through an advanced material-handling system promotes hands-free operation of the AP300. Its hoppers move independently with the help of two hydraulic cylinders to ensure efficient material flow, while two adjustable push rollers provide a contact point between the paver and the material truck to help centre the load and assist in steering while unloading. Four paddle sensors adjust material flow by controlling auger and conveyor rotation when in automatic mode. The augers and conveyors themselves are reversible to provide optimum material flow in all paving operations, and the auger assembly height is hydraulically adjustable, thus maximizing material consistency while minimizing material segregation and ensuring mat consistency.
The AP300 is equipped with enhanced-life electrical systems featuring nylon-braided wrap for greater protection of the electrical harness. Likewise, all exposed hydraulic hoses are protected with nylon sleeves to reduce abrasion and wear.
The AP300 has been matched with the AS3173 hydraulically extendable screed. Featuring either LPG or electric heating for environmentally clean operation, it paves from 1.7m to 3.2m, but with solid extensions added to both sides the maximum paving width can be extended to 4.0m. It comes equipped with variable-frequency vibrating system, electronic ignition, and both automatic and independent adjustment of the smoothing plate temperature for the central plate and each side plate.
The AP300 is powered by a Cat 3054C DINA 4-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine that delivers a gross power of 52kW (71hp) at an operating speed of 2,200 rev/min, and meets EU Stage II emission regulations for off-road applications. Two hydrostatically driven, large-tread drive tyres propel the machine, while four bogied solid-rubber wheels on the front handle steering. The AP300’s long wheelbase provides enhanced tractive effort and stability, even on soft base materials, while an optional front-wheel assist adds hydrostatic propel power to two of the front bogie wheels, increasing rimpull and providing enhanced traction. An on-demand, 100% lockable differential system prevents slippage in any grade condition.
A dual operator’s station with sliding control console, adjustable suspension seats and retractable seat belts are standard on the AP300. The operator seats slide side-to-side and front-to-back on a pedestal frame, extending beyond the paver’s frame for greater visibility and precise paver control. Optional grade and slope controls are available, providing full control for both longitudinal grade and transverse slope when operating to a single reference, with correction directly related to the magnitude of the surface deviation.
Precise mix delivery and productivity through an advanced material-handling system promotes hands-free operation of the AP300. Its hoppers move independently with the help of two hydraulic cylinders to ensure efficient material flow, while two adjustable push rollers provide a contact point between the paver and the material truck to help centre the load and assist in steering while unloading. Four paddle sensors adjust material flow by controlling auger and conveyor rotation when in automatic mode. The augers and conveyors themselves are reversible to provide optimum material flow in all paving operations, and the auger assembly height is hydraulically adjustable, thus maximizing material consistency while minimizing material segregation and ensuring mat consistency.
The AP300 is equipped with enhanced-life electrical systems featuring nylon-braided wrap for greater protection of the electrical harness. Likewise, all exposed hydraulic hoses are protected with nylon sleeves to reduce abrasion and wear.
The AP300 has been matched with the AS3173 hydraulically extendable screed. Featuring either LPG or electric heating for environmentally clean operation, it paves from 1.7m to 3.2m, but with solid extensions added to both sides the maximum paving width can be extended to 4.0m. It comes equipped with variable-frequency vibrating system, electronic ignition, and both automatic and independent adjustment of the smoothing plate temperature for the central plate and each side plate.
