Pothole patcher warms asphalt via electric heat
Model FP5 comes in a truck-mounted version, which fits on short wheelbase of 35,000-G.V.W., single-axle truck. Also comes in trailer-mounted version that fits behind a truck equipped with air brakes. Both styles warm hot-mix asphalt without emitting a flame. Instead, on-board electronic heater runs off hydraulic-powered, a.c. generator. Flameless operation reduces potential safety hazards associated with propane or heating oil. Thanks to insulated, 5.1-cu.-yd., electric-heated hopper, asphalt remains uniformly warm and pliable for extended time periods. In addition, built-in thermostat can keep hot mix at a constant temperature. To reuse left-over hot mix and prevent material waste, just use external power source to keep asphalt warm overnight or over a weekend. Machine makes permanent patches that boast increased longevity over traditional throw and roll repair methods. To patch pothole, use machines pavement breaker to remove and square off damaged area. Next, remove any remaining debris with air-driven wand, which also sprays a tack coating that binds new asphalt to existing pavement. Rear-mounted, swiveling chute then delivers hot asphalt to prepared area, plus folds into a shoveling platform. For a finishing touch, vibrating compactor adjusts asphalt density to align patch with existing pavement. Hydraulic lift platform lowers pavement breaker and plate compactor to ground level, thereby reducing workers risk of back injuries. To keep worker safe from oncoming traffic, machine allows curbside operation of various functions. Options include a pro-pane torch to dry out wet potholes.