The Integral Grade Trimmer/Concrete Slipform Paver-Its Concept and Development

A new concept in hydraulic powered subgrade trimmer design has been developed which shows promise of increasing concrete slipform paving accuracy and production as it relates to concrete curb and gutter, sidewalk, monolithic curb, gutter, and sidewalk, and median barrier wall construction. This trimmer, when incorporated as an integral part of an automated slipform paver/prime mover, efficiently cuts rough grade to a tolerance of plus or minus 1/8 in. in 10 ft (.32 cm in 3.05 m), while the paver portion forms freestanding concrete in the same operation. This trimmer/paver design promises to reduce what was previously a two machine or two pass trimming, then paving operation, to a one machine - one pass operation.