Traditionally, padding machines are self-loading, with a frontal elevator, and are driven by a highly-skilled operator. The Vulcano padding machine on the other hand requires a separate excavator to load the material, which leads one to question the advantages of this machine and why it is so popular around the world.
The main advantage is easy to understand when observing the padding machine in operation; the Vulcano doesn’t require the operator to travel to load the material, which means the padding operation can be achieved in just one pass – even with big diameter pipes, wide trenches, wet conditions and/or a low percentage of fine material – moving forward until the pipe gets fully covered. Moreover, the loading excavator can choose the best material to feed the unit, leaving aside big stones or wet patches of soil.
The monthly rate of a Vulcano together with the excavator’s rate is less expensive than a traditional self-loading padding machine, and an excavator is often required anyway, with the lowering operations for plugs digging and trench cleaning for instance. Moreover, the Vulcano does not require a highly-skilled operator.
According to Laurini, the crew currently working on the Gladstone LNG Project has expressed high satisfaction with the performance and capabilities of the Volcano padding machine. More than 50 units are currently working on various projects worldwide and Laurini has also received positive feedback from managers of other companies who have had the opportunity to see these units in operation.
Laurini has been serving the pipeline industry worldwide for almost 60 years and manufactures a wide range of padding machines (including the self-loading type) and crushing padders. The product line also includes six different models of multipurpose tractors (Muletrax line), as well as other pipeline equipment such as choker belts, roli cradles, external line-up clamps and more.
Laurini is a member of APIA and the International Pipe Line and Offshore Contractors Association, and has won three BP Best Innovation Awards in the last seven years for innovative products in the pipeline industry.
For more information visit www.laurini.com
