At ConExpo 2017, ShoulderMaster fielded several inquiries about the existence of a paver powered by a compact loader.
As the need for such a machine became evident, the Australian company set out to create what its customers requested.
This year, ShoulderMaster debuted the world’s first CP-1000 skid steer centre paver at World of Asphalt in St. Louis on March 25.
“At ConExpo, customers kept coming up to our owner and asked him if there was anything like this,” explained Tommy Tomlin, ShoulderMaster US Business Development Manager. “So, on his way back home to Australia, he drew rough sketches of it, and the vision was born.”
The new skid steer centre paver is designed for versatile applications, making it ideal for narrow paving projects, utility trenches and paving asphalt between rail tracks.
The purpose-placed material minimizes wastage, eliminating the need for hand work The paver requires 87 litres per minute of hydraulic flow, making it accessible for a wide range of users.
The prototype unveiled at World of Asphalt is designed for the Australian market. However, ShoulderMaster is now adjusting the design to suit North American contractors.
“It’s going to evolve. It’s going to change,” Tomlin said.
The CP-1000’s design includes a universal skid steer attachment quick connection, ensuring easy setup and operation.
“With a hydraulic quick coupler, you’re hooked up in five minutes,” Tomlin said.
Among its innovative features, the paver includes a wireless remote-control system, providing ground operators with full control and convenience. It is easily transported to various job sites and is equipped with two built-in cameras for better monitoring and precision.
With a hopper capacity of 2,500 litres, the paver allows for efficient material handling, and it can take material from conventional size trucks.
Additionally, its advanced screed functions enable it to pave from 0 to 10 cm thick and 30 cm to 100 cm wide.
By utilizing a skid steer on-site and transforming it into a versatile tool, ShoulderMaster says it significantly reduces both capital and maintenance costs when compared to a single-use machine.
Following the conclusion of World of Asphalt, ShoulderMaster will begin consulting its American customers to fine tune the paver.
“We’re going to get their feedback and input of where we need to be. We know that we need to have some different things, such as the width and stuff that’s specific for the American market,” Tomlin said.
Through the redesign, ShoulderMaster hopes to reach widths of 1.27 metres and a depth of 127 mm.
“Eventually we’d like to get it where we could actually drop into the trench,” Tomlin said.
The CP-1000 is expected to be in production by the end of 2025.
