Finnpave, the specialist surfacing division of Finning (UK) Ltd has recently launched the new Bitelli BB760 Paver. With 173 horsepower, the 3 axle BB760 is well equipped to meet the high productivity demands of the modern paving environment.

The machine can be fitted with either gas or electric powered screeds - with Bitelli producing their first electric screed, available on the 4700mm unit.

Powered by a Caterpillar 3056E Air to Air After Cooled liquid cooled engine, it also features an electronic management system which avoids fluctuations in power to any of the paver functions and therefore ensures smooth operation of the machine.

The machine can also be fitted with a choice of either the 4700mm gas or electric screed or the 4650mm gas or Electrapave option.

Bitelli have also concentrated design efforts on a new operator layout, console and diagnostics and have made servicing easier thanks to greater access to the engine compartment.

Finnpave report increasing interest in the Electrapave electric screed with over 50 orders placed since its introduction in 2002.

Product specialist Jon Medforth commented, "The Electrapave screed has been developed in conjunction with Bitelli and Caterpillar and delivers an uncompromised level of performance and unique features that improve crew safety and productivity."

"It features a 26kVa generator which runs at between 1500 and 2200 rpm, providing the power for 12 tubular elements, each generating 1750w. The screed reaches a working temperature of 130 degrees in under 30 minutes", he added.

The Electrapave is available as a retro-fit option on some paver models.

KATTENHORN AND PARTNERS TAKE FIRST BB760 IN UK

The first Bitelli BB760 in the UK has recently been put into operation with Havant based L Kattenhorn and Partners Ltd. The paver has been specified with a 4700 gas screed and takes the Kattenhorn Bitelli paver fleet to 4 machines.

Director David Kattenhorn said the decision to specify the BB760 was based on the impressive performance of the machine. "The demonstration trials proved that the machine had an impressive power output and coupled with the heavy duty screed we thought it to be an excellent combination for high performance", he said.

Kattenhorn’s have specified Bitelli equipment for over 15 years and believe the products have developed significantly in recent times. "We’ve looked at other machines but concluded that the level of specification on the BB760 was hard to beat. The BB760 was also specified with a Nobo levelling system which was installed by Finnpave. This contributes significantly to operational efficiency", he added.

Nationwide service support is provided through the Finnpave network of service engineers, an area that David feels Finnpave excel at.

"Finnpave’s service is very reliable and their response to the occasional problem has on occasions been phenomenal", he concluded.