APOLLO Leveling Sensor 06-25-00176 Junction Box Ski Sensor Kit for Asphalt Paver Spare Parts

Introduction for Asphalt Paver Application

The APOLLO 06-25-00176 is a high-precision, electrolytic tilt sensor that serves as a critical component in the automatic grade and leveling control systems of modern asphalt pavers. Its primary role is to ensure the paver's screed maintains a consistent, precise angle relative to the horizon, which is fundamental for achieving a flawlessly flat and smooth asphalt mat.

In the demanding environment of road construction, this sensor acts as the "eyes" for the paver's control system, providing the real-time data needed to make automatic adjustments and eliminate human error.

Key Features & Why They Matter for Asphalt Pavers

• High Precision & Resolution: This sensor can detect incredibly small angular changes (often in the range of arc-seconds). For a paver, this translates to the ability to maintain a consistent screed angle, ensuring mat thickness variations are virtually undetectable. This is crucial for achieving the desired smoothness (ride quality) and long-term durability of the road surface.

• Robust Industrial Design: Unlike delicate laboratory sensors, the 06-25-00176 is built to withstand the harsh conditions of a construction site. It is resistant to shock, vibration, dust, and moisture—all common challenges when mounted on a heavy, vibrating paver.

• Analog Voltage Output: The sensor typically provides a simple DC voltage signal (e.g., 0-5V or ±5V) that is proportional to the tilt angle. This is the industry-standard language for interfacing with the paver's proportional hydraulic valves and control console, making integration straightforward.

• Temperature Stability: Asphalt paving occurs in a wide range of ambient temperatures. This sensor is designed to maintain accuracy despite temperature fluctuations, ensuring consistent performance from the first load in the morning to the last load at night.

Its Specific Role on an Asphalt Paver

On an asphalt paver, the APOLLO sensor is typically used in two key ways:

1. Screed Slope/Tilt Control: A sensor is mounted on the screed itself to measure its tilt angle across the width of the paver. This allows the control system to automatically maintain a specific cross-slope (e.g., for water runoff or superelevation on curves) by adjusting one side of the screed up or down.

2. Mainframe Tilt Reference: A sensor can be mounted on the mainframe of the paver to establish a stable reference plane. This is especially important when using a mobile reference (like a ski or averaging beam) that follows a stringline or an existing surface. The sensor ensures the entire machine is operating from a known level baseline.

How It Works in the System

1. Setpoint: The operator inputs the desired slope or grade percentage into the paver's control console.

2. Measurement: The APOLLO 06-25-00176 continuously measures the actual angle of the screed or mainframe.

3. Comparison: The control system compares the sensor's real-time signal to the operator's setpoint.

4. Correction: If a deviation is detected, the system sends a corrective signal to the screed's hydraulic valves.

5. Adjustment: The hydraulics raise or lower one side of the screed until the APOLLO sensor's reading matches the desired setpoint, bringing the system back to level.

Benefits for the Paving Operation

• Superior Mat Smoothness: Directly translates to higher quality scores (e.g., better International Roughness Index (IRI) numbers) and fewer penalties.

• Consistent Mat Thickness: Ensures the specified design thickness is achieved across the entire width of the pavement, saving material and cost.

• Increased Productivity: Reduces the need for manual corrections and rework, allowing the crew to pave more linear meters per day.

• Reduced Operator Fatigue: Automates the critical task of maintaining grade and slope, allowing the operator to focus on other aspects of the operation.