The art of harmony between material, machine and man...

Laser and now 3 dimensional (3D) grading have been developed to reduce training time of a grader operator, provide higher productivity and a superior finish to large and small projects alike.

Laser grading or 2 dimensional (2D) grading allows for a constant slope (gradient) along a length and a constant slope across a width. Sometimes referred to as laser plane, usual gradients range from 0.5% (eg ag drain) to 5% (eg car park). Whilst a 20% (maximum for a drive way) and a 45% (batter) gradient are considered steep slopes, the laser can be set to suit most purposes of almost any slope.

An example of a scaled down plane would be like a rectangular table top, when resting evenly on its four legs the top could be said to be flat or have zero grade. Pick the table up at one end and only have two legs on the floor, it could be said to have a single grade. Pick the table up at one corner so that only one leg rests on the floor and it could be said to have fall in two directions or dual grade (gradient along its length and gradient along its width). A zero grade is typically used for house or factory sites, while dual grade is typically used for such things as tennis courts, ramps and soccer fields.

3D grading is able to create curves. A domed football field, the fairway on a golf course, an undulating car park, a typical road or a community park; are all examples that can be graded using 3D because they all involve curves. 3D grading can transform any viable plan, which the designer created when he put imagination into his computer, into practical reality. There are two types of systems that can be used -

• LPS - Local Positioning System uses a Robotic Total Station to locate the machine on site.
• GPS - Global Positioning System uses satellite radio signals to locate the machine on site.

Both systems follow similar procedures. The digital computer image (DTM) is loaded onto the on board machine control computer. Land based reference points then assist to take the theoretical into the practical, with all work carried out within these reference points. Radio signals also transmit time and location information so that the machine on board computer can adjust the machine grading edge. Position calculations are being made many times a second and it is this speed and accuracy that creates the productivity and the fine finish that we see when using LPS and GPS.

The benefits...

• Creating the information to run the grading system, also provides the resources for set out and checking of location and level. The two are then able to run simultaneously.
• Plans can be prepared in advance of job start (as opposed to only being able to peg the site once the job has commenced).
• A 10,000 square metre site for LPS & GPS only requires 5 pegs. Any other pegs are placed for the benefit of others.
• Stops knocking over of pegs, working to the wrong peg, having pegs replaced incorrectly.
• Greater productivity as the machine is able to work on any section of the job because the information is available to the operator at all times.
• Greater accuracy as the operator has the information available directly.
• OH&S benefit - personnel not working in the vicinity of the machine.
• Consistently reliable performance.

What this means for you...

• This technology is used from the beginning of the job to the completion of the job.
• We take your drawing file (DWG) and transform it into digital survey information (DTM) which will then guide our equipment on site.
• All set out, pre-start checks of cut and fill areas, bulking out and final trim can be accomplished.
• All tests and inspections can be accurately carried out.
• Everything is carried out in house, a one-stop-shop, saving you time and money.

Is there an additional cost?

Incorporating LPS and GPS technology into your project works guarantees consistently superior results. The grading system is reliable, it allows for an increase in productivity and reduces waste, ensuring that your job remains on budget. We believe that the most cost effective way to run any project is to 'do it right the first time' and this is exactly what this technology is able to achieve. Yes, the hourly rate is higher which accounts for the additional equipment. However, the unit rate, cost per square metre is cheaper due the additional square metres that are able to be graded each day. Also take into consideration that due to the increase in productivity, this will reduce the amount of ancillary equipment required on site, again reducing the final cost to you.

In conclusion...

The technology we use here at Bassearth is capable of resolving or working with any challenges that may arise in a quick and efficient way, such as a change in plans or multiple service locations. The grading system is a cost effective and efficient way of producing the best quality finish for your project. The capabilities of the technology mean that we are able to complete all stages of your works, saving you time and money in the long run.

Reward yourself by taking advantage of this grading system.

Check out this time-lapse footage of a school oval being laser graded: