Cat® SDX Screed Plate System

Features at a Glance

Increased Density and Smoothness

    
• Compacting asphalt at its highest temperature helps maximize density and deliver smoother results
    
• Kinetic mixing action created by the angular plates helps increase the bond interface between the asphalt binder and aggregate while promoting thermal uniformity for improved compaction characteristics
    
• Increased in-place density can enable compaction to occur on a hotter surface shortening the compaction train
    
• Higher stiffness values can lead to better longitudinal edge profiles and higher joint densities due to less lateral movement of the mix when being compacted

Innovative Material Flow

    
• The angular surface provides a kneading action as mix passes through the diamond-shaped grooves and the tapering flat surface at the back of the plates provide a smooth finished surface
    
• Confined mixing action manipulates aggregates to reduce air voids and increase density while creating a uniform surface texture
    
• Optimized aggregate structure promotes surface temperature uniformity for consistent compaction
    
• Enhanced structural integrity minimizes roller shoving for better smoothness
    
• Increased stiffness strengthens unconfined edges, promotes better joint matching

Faster Screed Plate Changes

    
• Hardware-free screed plate installation saves time and effort
    
• Tapered blocks integrated into the screed plates fit over the beveled edge of the adapter plates and are held in place with high-temperature silicone retainers that maintain tension for reliable performance
    
• One-time adapter plate install attaches to the screed frame utilizing the existing screed plate orientation
    
• Heating elements attach to the adapter plates
    
• Modular screed plates come in 300 mm (12”) sections that weigh approximately 16 kg (35 lbs.). The plates are interchangeable across the screed width to help maximize wear.
    
• The center screed section consists of 100 mm (4”) plates that weigh approximately 5 kg (12 lbs.). These narrow plates allow for crown at the center of the screed.

Two Screed Plate Designs

    
• The system offers two extended-life plate designs that provide flexibility for highways, interstates, and commercial paving applications.
    
• The textured plates are designed to increase density and smoothness, while the smooth plates perform like traditional flat screed plate designs with the added benefit of modular, quick-change capability.
    
• In testing performed by Caterpillar utilizing ASTM G65 Dry Sand Rubber Wheel test procedures, the chromium-alloy material utilized in Cat SDX extended-life screed plates provided 4.2X more abrasion resistance when compared to the material utilized in standard-wear Cat screed plates. Note: Test results do not guarantee similar abrasion resistance improvements in paving application performance. Results may vary due to individual plate variation, paving techniques, and paving conditions.