Overheated Screed Burner on 455 Greyhound Paver Causes Major Fire Damage During Morning Warm-Up

[MikePhua]

The Role of Screed Burners in Asphalt Paving
In modern asphalt paving, screed burners are essential for preheating the screed plate—the flat, heated surface that levels and compacts hot mix asphalt behind the paver. These burners, typically fueled by propane or diesel, ensure that the screed reaches optimal temperature before paving begins. If the screed is too cold, it can cause the asphalt to stick, tear, or segregate, leading to poor mat quality and rework.
However, screed burners must be carefully monitored. Overheating, fuel leaks, or improper flame adjustment can lead to dangerous conditions, especially during early morning warm-ups when visibility is low and crews are focused on setup.
Incident Overview and Immediate Consequences
In one early morning operation, a 455 Greyhound paver experienced a catastrophic fire originating near the crown screw—a component that adjusts the center elevation of the screed. The fire spread rapidly, engulfing the screed and reaching the operator’s platform before it could be extinguished. By the time the crew responded, the screed was completely destroyed, and the tractor unit suffered extensive damage to hydraulic lines, wiring harnesses, and control systems.
Fortunately, this was the backup paver. The primary unit was already out of service for screed panel replacement, leaving the crew without a functioning machine and halting the day’s paving schedule.
Possible Causes of Screed Fires
Several factors can contribute to screed fires:

• Fuel leaks from cracked hoses or loose fittings
  
• Improper burner adjustment, leading to flame impingement on nearby components
  
• Accumulated asphalt residue igniting under prolonged heat
  
• Electrical shorts near the burner ignition system
  
• Blocked air intakes, causing incomplete combustion and backdraft
  

In this case, the fire’s origin near the crown screw suggests either a fuel leak or overheating in a confined area with poor ventilation.
Lessons from the Field and Historical Context
Screed fires are not new. In the 1980s, many pavers lacked automatic shutoff systems or flame sensors. Operators would often see smoke during warm-up and dismiss it as normal. One veteran recalled watching smoke roll out from under the screed every morning without ever considering the risk of ignition.
Today, most manufacturers include safety interlocks, flame sensors, and automatic shutoff valves. However, older machines or aftermarket burner kits may lack these features, making manual inspection and vigilance critical.
Recommendations for Prevention and Recovery
To prevent similar incidents:

• Inspect burner systems weekly for leaks, corrosion, and proper flame shape
  
• Clean screed plates and burner compartments daily to remove flammable buildup
  
• Install flame sensors and automatic shutoff valves if not already equipped
  
• Train crews to recognize abnormal smoke or flame behavior during warm-up
  
• Keep fire extinguishers within reach and ensure all crew members are trained in their use
  

In the event of a fire:

• Shut off fuel supply immediately
  
• Use dry chemical extinguishers rated for Class B fires
  
• Disconnect battery power to prevent electrical arcing
  
• Document damage thoroughly for insurance and repair planning
  

Conclusion
The fire on the 455 Greyhound paver serves as a stark reminder that even routine tasks like screed warm-up carry risks. While the loss of a backup machine is unfortunate, it underscores the importance of burner maintenance, crew awareness, and emergency preparedness. As paving equipment continues to evolve, integrating modern safety features into older machines can help prevent costly and dangerous incidents on the jobsite.