<P>GOMACO is boosting the versatility of its Commander slipformer further with the development of the new Three-Track Commander IIIx variant. This has been configured to cope with much tighter radii than previous versions of the Commander III, allowing it to slipform a radius of just 610mm. This suits the machine to applications such as slipforming kerbing for parking lots or housing developments.</P>
<P>To achieve the very tight turning capability, the machine is equipped with the specially-developed Extreme Package for multi-application pavers. This includes rotary-sensored slew drives for steering, sensored leg positioning, independent travel circuits to each track, radius software, GOMACO’s three-sensor radius system, and repeatable mold offset.</P>
<P>The rotary-sensored slew drives are fitted to all three tracks, while GOMACO’s software engineers have developed the special tight radius software for the G+ control system. This allows the operator to programme the size of the radius into the controller. The values have to be dialled in before the Commander IIIx is tracked into position for slipforming the radius so that the operator can then activate the radius program, allowing the kerb and gutter to be laid out as required.</P>
<P>The G+ unit controls all functions when moving around the radius, including track angles and variable track speeds. When paving with stringline, the Commander IIIx uses the GOMACO three sensor steer system for the tight radius. The proper speed of each of the tracks is maintained by G+ with independent hydraulic circuits to each track, so that each travels at the correct speed to maintain the smooth radius, which also minimises pad scrubbing and increases wear life. The Commander IIIx’s three tracks, equipped with rotary-sensored slew drives, also make slipforming kerbs and gutters easier in tight clearance conditions.</P>