Wirtgen has launched the compact SP 33 slipform paver for the construction of monolithic concrete profiles. Thanks to its modular design and a wide range of setting options, the machine can be configured for use in almost all situations encountered on jobsites. Two track units with parallelogram swing legs at the front and a laterally adjustable single track unit at the rear enable zero-clearance paving and maximum flexibility.
In offset mode, the SP 33 can pave kerb and gutter profiles, rectangular profiles, and concrete barriers up to 1.3 m in height as well as sewer and drainage channel profiles. Concrete slabs with a width of up to 2.2 m can also be paved without any problems, or up to a width of 2.4 m in combination with a trimmer.
In Crosspave mode, the track units are turned by 90° and the SP 33 then paves transverse to the direction of travel. The slipform mould is centrally mounted under the machine, which enables the paving of concrete slabs with a width of up to 3.0 m. The quick and easy conversion from one paving mode to the other makes this machine highly versatile.
New operating concept
The new operating concept with event-driven graphic visualisation assists operators in their work with both paving modes. The machine control panel provides separate zones for clear and simple visualisation of the currently relevant machine information for each of the three main working phases: transport, set-up and concrete paving.
For instance, in set-up, it visualises the set-up process on the construction site in a logical sequence that guides operating personnel through the successive set-up of individual systems such as the crawler units, the mould, the vibrators, the sensors, etc., intuitively, efficiently, and without errors.
The load-dependent engine management system identifies every working situation and the power it requires, and automatically adjusts the speed of the diesel engine accordingly without intervention on the part of the operator. This ensures that the diesel engine runs within the envelope of optimal efficiency as often as possible, resulting in low diesel fuel consumption and simultaneous reductions of CO2 and noise emissions.
Stringless paving
The operator is also assisted by the AutoPilot 2.0 control system. In concrete paving, pavers are traditionally controlled by the scanning of a physical stringline. As an alternative, Wirtgen offers its AutoPilot 2.0 stringless paving system for all offset pavers and placer/spreaders. This completely eliminates the need for control by a physical stringline, which leads to considerable savings in terms of time and effort and increases the safety of the personnel on the construction site.
The system controls both the height adjustment and steering of the machine. AutoPilot 2.0 also allows fast and precise paving of tight radii and complex geometries. A GNSS signal and, depending on the configuration, various local sensors, such as an ultrasonic sensor on the machine, act as a reference.
