Caterpillar Inc. of Peoria, IL, released the BG-230D asphalt paver, a medium-sized, rubber tire paver for new construction, overlay and maintenance work.
The BG-230D is suited for airports, highways, urban and rural roads, industrial sites and large parking lots. It features a new engine with increased horsepower and an optional generator system and auxiliary power panel.
Engine
The BG-230D is powered by a Caterpillar 3054C turbo-charged diesel engine that generates 130 hp (97 kW) at 2,200 rpm. The 3054C is a small bore engine that provides high fuel efficiency and reliability. It is mounted low in the frame near the center of the machine providing a calculated balance between the front and rear.
In addition, traverse mounting of the engine provides the benefit of a cross-draft air-intake system. Air is pulled from the side of the machine rather than off the hot asphalt in the hopper, which lowers air intake temperature for cooling.
Optional Generator System
The BG-230D offers a tractor-mounted generator that provides power to the electric screed and the optional auxiliary power panel. The generator is a high capacity, single-phase generator that operates at 1,800 rpm. The auxiliary power panel provides 10.8 hp (8 kW) of power to the four 120-volt and two 240-volt receptacles.
Propel System
The BG-230D is driven by a completely hydrostatic propel system with four speed ranges. The four speed ranges provide the operator with precise propel control to meet travel and pave conditions.
In addition, the BG-230D propel system offers anti-slip control. This feature can be activated when one of the drive wheels slips. It allows the other wheel to drive the paver.
Steering System
The BG-230D uses a steering wheel to control direction. The advantages are simplicity of operation and improved speed control because the propel speed is independent of steering commands.
This frees up the operator, allowing greater attention on other operational aspects such as truck contact, maintaining proper head of material, and monitoring other paver systems.
Material Handling System
The BG-230D features outboard feeder drives. In this arrangement, the feeder drive motor is positioned outside the mainframe, away from the feeder tunnel and away from the heat of the asphalt.
The outboard drive allows for a more narrow center chain cover, which results in better material flow to the augers than previous designs, according to the manufacturer. This feature increases feeder tunnel size and provides service access to the feeder drive motor and drive chains.
Hydraulically adjustable augers are a standard feature on the BG-230D. They can be raised for increased clearance when loading or unloading the paver onto a transport machine, reducing the risk of auger damage.
Hydraulically adjustable augers also provide benefits to mat quality. The adjustable auger height allows for better distribution of material in front of the screed.
Cooling System
The engine cooling system is driven with an electronically controlled on-demand variable-speed cooling fan.
The variable speed fan efficiently uses engine power and reduces noise levels, according to the manufacturer. Sound suppression insulation is used in the engine compartment and on all access doors.
Operator’s Station
The BG-230D is equipped with a single operator station that slides from side to side. The operator station on the BG-320D slides 12 in. (30 cm) beyond either edge of the paver and provides visibility to ground contact points and side obstructions.
In addition, the operator seat swivels 6 in. (15 cm) to the left or right providing operator visibility and comfort.
Serviceability
The BG-230D has been designed for easy and quick servicing. Doors, panels and decks provide access to service areas. The hoses and wire harnesses are held in place with straps and clips. Routings are carefully designed to provide reliable operation and access for service.
The BG-320D includes a standard 500-hour oil change interval, which reduces downtime and increases production time.
Electrical System
The BG-320D has a 24-volt DC electrical system that is designed for improved durability, reliability and ease of service, according to the manufacturer. Two Caterpillar 12-volt batteries with 55-amp alternator are used in the system. The BG-320D uses Caterpillar-approved electrical components.
In addition, electrical wiring has Caterpillar designated wire numbers that are identified by function. Wires are loomed with vinyl coated nylon braid to improve the electrical system and to protect against abrasion.
Screed Selection
The BG-320D is offered with a choice of two screeds including the Extend-A-Mat 8-16B screed and the AS2251 screed. Both screeds are offered with diesel heat or electric heat. The electric heat screeds incorporate a tractor-mounted generator.
Both screeds perform the same basic function — to lay material to the desired width and depth while providing a smooth finish with initial compaction.
For more information, call 763/712-3001.
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