A versatile new paver is helping a Virginia company provide more efficient service to its customers. In late 2011, Sovereign Paving Inc. purchased the LB performance Blaw-Knox paver, model number PF-150B, a wheel- mounted, mid-size paver that provides flexibility on a variety of job sites.
“We purchased the paver in October for delivery in November,” explained Kenny Tyree, vice president of Sovereign Paving Inc. “Weather being inclement and the holidays being around the corner, the new paver was not put to work until after Christmas. Surprisingly, for the updates and screed changes, the price remains comparable to the old machine.”
Sovereign acquired the PF-150B as a replacement paver. It was chosen primarily because of its size, making it easy to transport, and its capability to lay a mat from 8 to 13 ft. (2.4 to 4 m).
“The paver is trailered to and from the job daily,” Tyree explained. “In between jobs it is left on a dedicated trailer in the shop yard. Because of the size and versatility of this paver, it’s possible to use it to install a 12-foot lane, complete small commercial repairs or even use on driveways.”
Sovereign Paving’s specialty is paving rehabilitation including lane replacements, commercial lot repair and residential work. Tyree said the PF-150B provides the flexibility and versatility his company requires to successfully complete a variety of projects of differing scales.
“As expected, the biggest challenge is the learning curve, especially as it relates to the challenge of familiarizing operators with changes resulting from new equipment. The new controls are a big change from previous models, making the major con the greater learning curve. There were a handful of issues related to the pull back chain and augers that were experienced when we first began using the new PF-150B. However, Richmond Machinery and Blaw-Knox stood behind their product.
“Rideabilty is the biggest thing you’re looking for in the paving industry, and curb appearance are important. Also, you’re the last person on the job. The construction people and the other folks have been there already and left, so we’re the ones that have to pull it all together.”
Tyree, whose company is used for a variety of residential, commercial and utility jobs, said whatever the assignment, dependable machinery is crucial.
“After equipment gets to be a certain age, the reliability goes. Breakdowns are very costly so you never want that. Anytime your equipment’s not moving, it costs you money. What I like about this latest paver is that the new screeds are more operator and environmentally friendly.”
According to Tyree, the PF-150B has a number of benefits.
“The new design screed takes care of extension imperfections that existed in the mat of older models. Additionally, the use of electric heat not only makes for cleaner work — previous models using diesel fuel provided for more air degradation — but one would assume therefore leads to a more environmentally sound piece of equipment. Additionally the new hydro-static drive is a big improvement over the old gear box used in older models. These are true advantages to daily work.”
Sovereign Paving Inc. uses the PF-150B on a daily basis. Tyree credits Richmond Machinery for standing by its merchandise.
“Richmond Machinery was on site the first day we put the paver into operation to ensure that all operated well. At that time, when problems were discovered, Richmond Machinery took control, contacted the factory which sent representatives to town to address the issues, and all worked diligently to resolve the problem. Richmond Machinery once again returned to the job site the first day we put the equipment back into operation, to ensure all concerns and issues were indeed resolved.”
Richmond Machinery owner Michael Colley said dealing with Sovereign Paving is always rewarding.
“Kenny has been a customer with us since he and his business partner started their company. We’ve furnished him five or six new pavers, and he understands the equipment, having been a mechanic. He’s also given a lot of feedback regarding the models he buys, which is helpful. I think this latest paver will serve him well. It’s compact, but still has technology and power on its side to handle professional jobs.”
Added Tyree, “We’ve been in business for 16 years and have had a personal relationship with Richmond Machinery long before we ventured into business on our own. Both the personal relationship and great working relationship between Sovereign Paving and Richmond Machinery have been in existence for 25 years.”
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