Episodes

  • [Part 2] Paving the future: Cold central plant recycling and 3D paving

    [Part 2] Paving the future: Cold central plant recycling and 3D paving
    Nov 19 2024
    In the final episode of Season 8, we pick up our conversation with Tim Kowalski and Laikram Narsingh from Wirtgen Group. We explore two innovative technologies changing the asphalt pavement industry: 3D paving and Cold Central Plant Recycling. We learn what these technologies are, how they were developed, and we share real-world examples of these technologies in action. Join us as we wrap up this season focused on Technology and the People Who Use It!
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    28 mins
  • [Part 1] Paving the future: Achieving sustainability goals through technology and training

    [Part 1] Paving the future: Achieving sustainability goals through technology and training
    Nov 12 2024
    For the penultimate episode of Season 8, we kick off the first half of a two-part conversation with Tim Kowalski and Laikram Narsingh from Wirtgen Group. During this conversation, Tim and Nars delve into the critical role of training and sustainability in asphalt paving. We explore how to help the workforce understand and adopt new technologies and discuss the retention challenges manufacturers are facing. Finally, we discuss how equipment technology can contribute to the sustainability goals of the industry and the steps contractors can take to join this movement. Episode sponsored by Wirtgen Group: https://www.wirtgen-group.com/en-us/
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    30 mins
  • Built to last: Enhancing productivity and sustainability through wear parts

    Built to last: Enhancing productivity and sustainability through wear parts
    Oct 29 2024
    This week, Richard and Brett explore the technology of wear parts. With the help of Brian Handshoe and Randy Barrington from Kenco Engineering, we break down what wear parts are, how this technology evolved, and where Kenco stands as an innovator in the field. From asphalt drums to auger blades, we’ll discuss specific examples of wear parts, including best practices for integration and maintenance to maximize equipment lifespan. Finally, we take a look at the future of wear part technology and discuss how wear parts contribute to the sustainability efforts of our industry. Episode sponsored by Kenco Engineering: https://www.kencoengineering.com/
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    25 mins
  • Designing pavements in a changing world: How technology shapes asphalt in Europe

    Designing pavements in a changing world: How technology shapes asphalt in Europe
    Oct 22 2024
    In this episode of Pave It Black, we delve into the technologies and strategies shaping the European asphalt pavement industry. With the help of Breixo Gómez Meijide, Technical Director for the European Asphalt Pavement Association (EAPA), we look at the innovations helping the industry work towards its goal of being carbon-neutral by 2050. We discuss emerging topics such as low-temperature asphalt, the circular economy, and the potential impact of the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles on road durability. Lastly, we highlight the relationships between NAPA, EAPA, and other international organizations, and their role in driving technological advancements in the asphalt pavement industry.
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    35 mins
  • Better management, better processes: Enhancing asphalt operations with specialized software

    Better management, better processes: Enhancing asphalt operations with specialized software
    Oct 15 2024
    In this episode of Pave It Black, we discuss how specialized software can enhance your operations. While many think of everyday tools like Office 365 and CRM databases, there are software platforms uniquely designed for the needs of asphalt pavement companies. To dig deeper, we talk to Ari Bleemer from OneCrew, a company at the forefront of creating innovative software solutions for our industry. Ari shares the story behind developing a unified platform for asphalt professionals and explains how digital tools can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and overcome common industry challenges. We also explore the broader trends in software adoption, the hurdles companies face when integrating new technology, and the exciting emerging technologies on the horizon.
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    30 mins
  • Loader, no driver: Transforming plant operations with remote-operated autonomous loaders

    Loader, no driver: Transforming plant operations with remote-operated autonomous loaders
    Oct 8 2024
    This week, we’re exploring a technology that will significantly change how asphalt plants operate: remote-operated, autonomous loaders. To learn more about this technology, Richard and Brett talk to Vince Hafeli of Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, the first company in America to introduce this technology. Vince walks us through the technology behind autonomous loaders, how Ajax began its journey with this tech, and its impact on its operations. We dive into the challenges of introducing new technologies, from team training to integration hurdles, and hear Vince’s advice for other companies considering similar advancements. Episode sponsored by ADM: https://www.admasphaltplants.com/
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    25 mins
  • Integrating technology at your plant without disrupting flow: Using aramid fibers in production

    Integrating technology at your plant without disrupting flow: Using aramid fibers in production
    Oct 1 2024
    In this episode of Pave It Black we’re diving into the world of additive technologies. Additives play a crucial role in enhancing mixture performance and promoting sustainability through increased recycle content and lower production temperatures. To help us learn more about this topic, Richard and Brett talk to Patrick Weaver from Surface Tech. Patrick discusses best practices for introducing and controlling new technologies in asphalt mix production, the benefits of precision dosing, and key metrics producers should consider when evaluating additives. Whether you're an asphalt producer or just curious about the latest technologies, this episode is packed with essential information and expert advice. Episode sponsored by Surface Tech: https://surface-tech.com/
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    25 mins
  • People, process, then technology: Unlocking operational efficiencies with AI

    People, process, then technology: Unlocking operational efficiencies with AI
    Sep 24 2024
    In the third episode of season 8, Richard and Brett discuss today’s most popular technology advancements: artificial intelligence. In 2023, in partnership with XBE, we launched HeyNAPA, a dedicated AI search engine that lets you access technical documents and helps answer any asphalt pavement-related queries. As more companies within the industry adopt AI technologies, we talk to Luke Kotz of Mannatts, Inc. to discuss how AI is making a noticeable impact, the unexpected benefits it’s brought to their operations, and how to overcome challenges in adopting the technology. If you're curious about how AI is transforming construction and what the future holds for the asphalt pavement industry, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
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    28 mins