(57) @ The invention relates to a method and apparatus for the machine filling of a trench
with a flowable filler e.g., asphalt. The method comprises introducing filler 12 into
the trench 18 from a mould 1, the latter being advanceable along the trench 18, and
the mould 1 precluding forward spreading of filler 12 to trench area 18B, with advancement
of the mould 1 commencing when a pre-determined filler pressure is sensed, the filler
12 firstly being shaped and/or skimmed to a level L above the top of the trench 18,
and thereafter being pressed to a level contiguous with surfaces 17 to either side
of the trench 18 by means of a pressure plate 23. The mould 1 comprises leading, intermediate
and trailing mould portions 4, 5, 6, the leading portion 4 being provided with restraining
wall(s) 7, the intermediate portion being provided with shaping/skimming surface 21,
and the trailing portion 6 being provided with a transition surface 22 and pressure
plate 23.
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