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Appalti Engineering is currently using a Sumitomo HA60C-11 asphalt paver for the construction of the runway extension at Abruzzo Airport in Pescara. This machine is ideally suited for both thick and thin asphalt layers and is fully capable of handling high production rates without compromise.
When referring to SUMITOMO pavers, the first feature that comes to mind is the outstanding paving performance of the J-Paver screed. This is a key component that has earned these machines wide appreciation across very different operating environments. This is particularly true for the wheeled models, which stand out for their adaptability to job sites with a wide range of logistical and operational challenges. This was already evident with the arrival in Italy of the first HA60W-11.
With the tracked versions, these characteristics are further enhanced, combined with a traction capability that shows no limitations in any application field — as demonstrated by the Sumitomo HA60C-11.
This paver was selected by Appalti Engineering for the asphalt paving works of the runway extension at Abruzzo Airport in Pescara. A demanding project in which the Abruzzo-based company, one of the leading contractors in Central Italy, is extending the runway by 380 metres. Once completed, the works will provide more than 20,000 additional square metres for aircraft take-off, landing and manoeuvring operations. It is precisely in this context that the Sumitomo HA60C-11, also equipped with MOBA Super-Ski technology, is demonstrating its high-level paving performance in real operating conditions.
A SUMITOMO HA60C-11 FOR A COMPLEX JOB SITE
This was therefore a project developed in multiple phases. The first phase involved preparing the subgrade through the excavation of the surface soil in accordance with the design levels. This was followed by the stabilization of the soil forming the base layer of the structure. At this stage, Appalti Engineering stepped in to carry out the entire pavement structure of the airport runway.
The pavement structure consists of 20 cm of cement-treated base, 13 cm of base course, 8 cm of binder course, and finally 5 cm of wearing course, which forms the top layer of the pavement. Each layer covers a surface area of more than 20,000 square metres.
According to the project schedule, the completion of the initial phases was planned for January 2026.
THE KEY FEATURES OF THE SUMITOMO HA60C-11
Appalti Engineering selected the Sumitomo HA60C-11 based on a number of substantial considerations, first and foremost the machine’s technical characteristics. These represented the starting point of the evaluation, with the J-Paver screed undoubtedly being the main factor that attracted the interest of the leading Abruzzo-based contractor. In fact, this is a screed that currently has no equivalent on the market.
The ability to operate continuously with a paving width ranging from 2.30 to 6.00 metres, without the need for screed extensions and without removing the side plates during transport, is a decisive feature. This capability opens up application possibilities that go well beyond the demanding works carried out at Pescara Airport. On this site, the machine operated with the screed at its maximum width in order to maximise productivity. In standard job sites, however, the paving width can be adjusted in a streamlined, fast and efficient manner.
THE MOLD BOARD AND THE STRIKE-OFF
Another key technical component is the mold board, namely the movable side plates installed in front of the screed extensions. Their primary function is to meter the material flow towards the screed. The augers, with hydraulically adjustable height, ensure constant material feed, while the hydraulic adjustment cylinders guarantee a smooth and uniform material flow. These design solutions reduce the machine’s traction effort while simultaneously increasing paving accuracy.
The presence of the strike-off, installed ahead of the tamper, distributes and pre-compacts the material before it reaches the tamper itself. This is a simple yet highly effective solution that delivers a double positive effect. The first is a level of material compaction superior to that of any other screed currently available on the market, allowing a reduction in roller operations downstream of the paver. The second benefit is the reduction of wear on the tamper, resulting in lower routine maintenance costs.
FULLY HYDRAULICALLY ADJUSTABLE SCREED PLATES
The final component that further enhances the technical features of the J-Paver screed is the fully hydraulically adjustable screed plates. This solution, provided by Sumitomo, ensures perfect paving flatness, eliminating thickness variations between individual plates. Beyond that, it allows the screed profile to be optimally adapted to the design sections. Positive or negative crown profiles can therefore be formed in real time during paving, without the need for manual tools.
Moreover, the plates are made of Sumi Steel, a special steel “made by Sumitomo,” which has increased durability from 1,500 to 4,000 operating hours, further reducing maintenance costs. Added to these features are automatic temperature control and immediate adjustment of tamper speed and vibration, both from the operator’s station and from ground control points.
A MACHINE FOCUSED ON HIGH EFFICIENCY
The technical solutions adopted by Sumitomo for the J-Paver screed are not solely aimed at achieving optimal paving quality. A second key objective is to ensure overall high efficiency. The Yanmar 4TN107 engine is rated at just 110 kW, dropping to 108 kW in Eco Mode. This is lower than the average power for pavers in this segment, as higher power is not actually necessary. The integrated electronic management of the low-hydraulic-consumption screed, the propulsion system, and the plate heating allows power requirements — and therefore fuel consumption — to be kept under control.
The Sumitomo HA60C-11 is thus an advanced paver: a machine designed to deliver high paving capacity with low operating costs, thanks to solutions that are currently unique on the market.
Furthermore, the electronic management system operates on three levels, ensuring that in the event of an electronic board failure, the machine can still be operated manually to complete the paving works. In the worst-case scenario, the machine can be safely moved for repair without disrupting the job site.
A MULTI-PURPOSE PAVER
Appalti Engineering chose the HA60C-11 for all the reasons mentioned above — but there are additional advantages. Among the highlights of this Japanese paver is the hopper, which features hydraulically operated front gates. This solution optimizes material feed and provides a loading floor height of 46 cm, allowing the use of vehicles without a movable rear anti-clog bar. The hopper design also facilitates quick filling, supporting faster paving operations. The augers and conveyors are fully reversible, giving the operator precise control over the material flow without waste.
The tracked chassis is equipped with rocker-suspension rollers, allowing the machine to conform to obstacles such as manholes, potholes, or uneven terrain. This is precisely the type of situation where a multi-purpose paver is required: a machine capable of paving large areas with substantial layer thickness — as in the Pescara Airport project — or working efficiently in urban environments, where the HA60C-11 can maneuver easily while maintaining a high-quality finish.
Sumitomo’s propulsion control system not only ensures accurate speed and direction — critical on a complex site like Pescara Airport — but also allows settings to be saved and reactivated at the touch of an on/off switch, streamlining operations and improving overall efficiency.
MOBA SUPER-SKI TECHNOLOGY
Appalti Engineering has also equipped its HA60C-11 with MOBA Super-Ski digital technology. This system provides essential integrated support for eliminating surface irregularities. On a highly sensitive project such as an airport runway, precise control of every element is critical — not only the design levels but also any unevenness that could affect aircraft take-off and landing operations.
The technology is equally valuable for other applications, such as high-traffic roads and highways, where surface precision directly impacts safety and performance.
The MOBA Super-Ski digital system enables automatic surface leveling with extremely high precision, while remaining straightforward and user-friendly. Using ultrasonic control, it operates over a constant measuring range of 13 metres.
Installation on the paver is very simple: the system weighs less than 10 kg and connects to the machine via Plug & Play, ensuring full integration. The setup is wireless and immune to interference, based on an innovative connection concept that allows the Super-Ski to function without cables. As soon as the sensor is mechanically mounted, the electrical connection is automatically established.
The system scans the surface without physical contact, using wear-free ultrasonic sensors. It is highly reliable in demanding environments, with resistance to heat, vibration, dust, rain, and fog, all essential for road construction sites. MOBA Super-Ski detects and filters sensor data to guarantee the system’s precise and consistent operation, ensuring perfectly leveled paving surfaces.
The distribution network is another fundamental factor when selecting a machine of this calibre. OMS, the European importer of the Japanese pavers, has established a high-level sales and service network. In Abruzzo, this is represented by Edimac, a historic company owned by the Gigli family, operating in the sector for fifty years. The company specialises in the sale and service of earthmoving equipment, lifting machines, road construction machinery, and agricultural machinery.
EDIMAC AS A REFERENCE POINT IN ABRUZZO
The dealer is based in Pescara, next to the airport, in a central and strategically convenient location with respect to the region and major transport routes. All the brands in its sales and service offering are leading names in the industry, with a well-established reputation for post-sale support.
Founded by Gerardo Gigli, Edimac now also has his son Alex actively involved in the commercial side. The Sumitomo brand, recently added to the company’s portfolio, complements the long-standing, major brands that Edimac has represented for years. For Appalti Engineering, having a reliable partner in such a well-structured company was an additional positive factor in choosing the HA60C-11.
Furthermore, OMS provides on-site technical support remotely through digital technologies using augmented reality, enabling field technicians to receive assistance for specific operational issues efficiently.
APPALTI ENGINEERING: A STRONG ABRUZZO-BASED COMPANY
Appalti Engineering is one of the leading road construction companies in central Italy. With its two asphalt mixing plants located in Elice (Pescara province) and Chieti, the company is able to manage major contracts while maintaining full control over the entire production chain. This capability has been a significant advantage, allowing the Abruzzo-based company to tackle the demanding Abruzzo Airport project with a level of operational flexibility that other firms could not match.
The decision of a company of this size — currently employing around 80 people — to invest in the Sumitomo HA60C-11 is therefore grounded in solid experience in the road construction sector. This expertise enabled a thorough evaluation of the machine based on its actual technological and performance capabilities.
Appalti Engineering is using a Sumitomo HA60C-11 paver for the runway extension at Abruzzo Airport in Pescara. This machine is ideal for both thick and thin asphalt layers and can handle high production volumes with ease.
When it comes to SUMITOMO pavers, their outstanding paving performance with the J-Paver screed immediately comes to mind. This key component has earned these machines widespread appreciation across a variety of job sites. This is especially true for the wheeled models, which demonstrate remarkable adaptability in challenging environments — as was seen with the arrival of the first HA60W-11 in Italy. With the tracked versions, these capabilities are further enhanced, adding traction power that can confidently handle any application — as demonstrated by the Sumitomo HA60C-11.
The HA60C-11 was chosen by Appalti Engineering for the asphalt paving of the runway extension at Abruzzo Airport in Pescara. This demanding project sees the Abruzzo-based company, one of the leading contractors in central Italy, extending the runway by 380 metres. Upon completion, over 20,000 additional square metres will be available for aircraft take-off, landing, and manoeuvring. Here, the Sumitomo HA60C-11, also equipped with MOBA Super-Ski technology, is demonstrating its high-level paving capabilities in real-world conditions.
