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The Rise of GOMACO in Concrete Paving
GOMACO Corporation, founded in 1965 in Ida Grove, Iowa, began as a modest operation focused on bridge deck finishing machines. By 1975, the company had introduced its first slipform concrete paver—the GP-2000—which revolutionized the way contractors approached flatwork and road construction. Over the decades, GOMACO expanded its lineup to include curb and gutter machines, barrier wall pavers, and multi-lane highway pavers. Today, GOMACO is recognized globally for its precision, automation, and adaptability in concrete paving.
With thousands of units sold across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, GOMACO machines have been used in everything from airport runways to ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) overlays. Their reputation is built on reliability, modular design, and cutting-edge control systems.
Core Features of Modern GOMACO Pavers
GOMACO’s latest generation of concrete pavers includes models like the GP-4000, GP-6000, and the UHPC paver. These machines incorporate advanced features that enhance productivity and precision:
Performance in Ultra-High Performance Concrete Applications
GOMACO’s UHPC paver was showcased at the 2023 International Symposium on Ultra-High Performance Concrete in Wilmington, Delaware. Designed to handle the harsh mix designs of UHPC, this machine features reinforced structural components and enhanced vibration control. UHPC requires precise placement due to its low slump and high strength, and GOMACO’s system ensures consistent consolidation and surface finish.
The UHPC paver includes:
Efficiency Gains and Field Anecdotes
Contractors using GOMACO pavers often report significant time and cost savings. A paving crew in Texas noted a 30% reduction in labor hours after switching to a GP-4000 for highway shoulder work. The machine’s automated grade control eliminated the need for manual stringline adjustments, and the remote operation allowed the foreman to monitor progress from a safe vantage point.
In another case, a crew in Queensland used a GOMACO paver to complete a 1.2 km airport taxiway in under four days. The machine maintained consistent edge alignment and surface smoothness, passing all quality control checks without rework.
Maintenance and Operational Recommendations
To maintain peak performance:
Customization and Adaptability
GOMACO pavers are highly customizable. Options include:
Conclusion
GOMACO concrete pavers represent the pinnacle of slipform paving technology. With decades of innovation, global deployment, and proven field performance, these machines continue to shape the future of infrastructure. Whether tackling UHPC overlays, multi-lane highways, or urban sidewalks, GOMACO’s precision, efficiency, and adaptability make it a trusted partner in concrete construction.
GOMACO Corporation, founded in 1965 in Ida Grove, Iowa, began as a modest operation focused on bridge deck finishing machines. By 1975, the company had introduced its first slipform concrete paver—the GP-2000—which revolutionized the way contractors approached flatwork and road construction. Over the decades, GOMACO expanded its lineup to include curb and gutter machines, barrier wall pavers, and multi-lane highway pavers. Today, GOMACO is recognized globally for its precision, automation, and adaptability in concrete paving.
With thousands of units sold across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, GOMACO machines have been used in everything from airport runways to ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) overlays. Their reputation is built on reliability, modular design, and cutting-edge control systems.
Core Features of Modern GOMACO Pavers
GOMACO’s latest generation of concrete pavers includes models like the GP-4000, GP-6000, and the UHPC paver. These machines incorporate advanced features that enhance productivity and precision:
- G+ Control System: A proprietary digital interface offering real-time diagnostics, grade and steering control, and multilingual support. Operators can monitor fault history and adjust settings with a 6.5-inch anti-glare display.
- Smart Steer Technology: Automatically adjusts leg positioning and steering angles for tight clearances and complex paving geometries.
- Zero-Clearance Paving: Allows leg repositioning to accommodate narrow work zones, such as bridge decks or urban corridors.
- Remote Operation Capability: Enables operators to control the machine from a safe distance, improving visibility and reducing exposure to moving parts.
- Modular Mold System: Interchangeable molds allow quick adaptation to different paving widths and profiles.
Performance in Ultra-High Performance Concrete Applications
GOMACO’s UHPC paver was showcased at the 2023 International Symposium on Ultra-High Performance Concrete in Wilmington, Delaware. Designed to handle the harsh mix designs of UHPC, this machine features reinforced structural components and enhanced vibration control. UHPC requires precise placement due to its low slump and high strength, and GOMACO’s system ensures consistent consolidation and surface finish.
The UHPC paver includes:
- Reinforced frame for high-density mixes
- Adjustable vibration settings for optimal consolidation
- E-stops on all four corners and the operator display
- Integrated work bridge for finishing and inspection
Efficiency Gains and Field Anecdotes
Contractors using GOMACO pavers often report significant time and cost savings. A paving crew in Texas noted a 30% reduction in labor hours after switching to a GP-4000 for highway shoulder work. The machine’s automated grade control eliminated the need for manual stringline adjustments, and the remote operation allowed the foreman to monitor progress from a safe vantage point.
In another case, a crew in Queensland used a GOMACO paver to complete a 1.2 km airport taxiway in under four days. The machine maintained consistent edge alignment and surface smoothness, passing all quality control checks without rework.
Maintenance and Operational Recommendations
To maintain peak performance:
- Inspect hydraulic lines and vibration components weekly
- Update G+ software quarterly to ensure compatibility with new sensors
- Calibrate grade and steering sensors before each project
- Use high-quality concrete with consistent slump and aggregate gradation
- Clean molds and augers daily to prevent buildup and wear
Customization and Adaptability
GOMACO pavers are highly customizable. Options include:
- Telescoping frame extensions
- Dual mold configurations for simultaneous curb and slab paving
- Stringless paving integration using GPS and total station systems
- Onboard generators and lighting for night work
- Climate control cabs for extreme environments
Conclusion
GOMACO concrete pavers represent the pinnacle of slipform paving technology. With decades of innovation, global deployment, and proven field performance, these machines continue to shape the future of infrastructure. Whether tackling UHPC overlays, multi-lane highways, or urban sidewalks, GOMACO’s precision, efficiency, and adaptability make it a trusted partner in concrete construction.
