In response to the increasing demand for manoeuvrable padding machines for small jobs where accessibility is limited, SUPERIOR Manufacturing added the SPD-150 and SPD-160 to its SPD series.
SUPERIOR’s most popular padding machine – the SPD-350 – debuted in 2002 and has been well received by the pipeline industry. Following the success of the SPD-350, the SPD-250 and the SPD-450 were added to the range.
The SPD-250 has all features of the SPD-350, but has a smaller frame and is ideal for pipe diameters ranging from 102-406 mm. The SPD-450 is SUPERIOR’s largest padding machine, with a screening area 1.5 times larger than the SPD-350 and three times larger than the SPD-250.
To complete the range, SUPERIOR created the SPD-150 and the SPD-160 models, which were designed especially to cater to small padding jobs.
SPD-150
The SPD-150 is an entry-level, self-loading padding machine, that can be operated via remote control. Just like in the larger models, the escalator and screen section can be adjusted hydraulically to compensate for different terrain gradients. It is ideal for pipe diameters ranging from 127-406 mm.
SPD-160
In contrast to the other models, the SPD-160 is a top-loading, remote-controlled padding machine that works in conjunction with an excavator. The excavated material is fed directly into the shaker, making the SPD-160 ideal for jobsites with conditions that would make conventional front-load feeding difficult, for example, when the soil is hard or sticky, or when there are sharp turns along the ditch. It is specialised for wide and deep ditches where more time for the backfilling is necessary and can be operated on pipe diameters ranging from 254-1,524 mm.
Project Manager Mark Barrows and Plant Manager Rex Harrison, who are currently working for the McConnell Dowell and Consolidated Contracting Company joint venture on the Australia Pacific LNG Project in Queensland, recently operated two units of the SPD-160 padding machines.
“After our good experience with other models of the SPD series, we wanted to test the SPD-160 at this jobsite and it convinced us too. The big advantage for us is operating the SPD-160 padder at tie-ins and other areas not covered by the bigger mainline padders,” said Mr Barrows.
“Another advantage of the machine is to direct padding material under the pipe, to recycle timber skids,” said Mr Harrison.
All models are manufactured in Parma, Italy with Conformite Europeene approval and are sold and rented to pipeline companies around the world by Worldwide Machinery. The conveyor can be used on either side of the machine and can be folded into two or three parts depending on model for easy shipping without disassembly. The engine compartment is insulated to reduce noise in order to comply with European noise limit regulations.
For more information visit www.worldwidemachinery.com