Bomag BF800C Tracked Paver

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Bomag BF800C tracked paver which has been produced in China by Kaster. While model manufacturers continually strive to produce more realistic replicas featuring more and more fine detailing, the Kaster company recently launched the BF800C model at Intermat and this is a very nicely produced model with plenty of great detailing, fully demonstrating a shift into producing excellent and highly realistic scale replicas.

The BF800C is a 21 ton finisher with a 10 metre maximum paving width and the model is a very accurate representation of the full sized machine.

The front of the model has folding hopper sides which are powered by small hydraulic cylinders. The front edges have hinged flaps which tilt upwards as the sides fold in while the central section also raises, operated by small lugs integrated into the hopper platform. The front bar has rotating rollers fitted and the bar has a slight pivoting movement.

The tracks are made of individually linked segments with a smooth surface simulating the rubber pads of the full sized machine with inset bolt fixing detailing which is a nice touch. Small guards are located in front of the tracks which are set at a slight angle and pivot, used for preventing material from falling under the tracks as the paver moves forward. This level of detail is certainly great to see.

The main operator's station has been constructed well, with a single seat and control console which is mounted to a sliding frame which allows the driver to adjust the location within the width of the frame. The canopy has front and rear facing work lights with silver lenses and an amber beacon with light housings also located on the engine cover along with the exhaust stack which has an integrated grab handle. The side panels have finely cast grill detailing which has been highlighted with black paint.

For a better view of the work area, the entire canopy frame can slide left and right, overhanging the chassis which is fully functional on the model, right down to the small safety chains and accurately scaled safety railings. One aspect of the full sized machine not modeled is the ability to fold the canopy frame and exhaust stack during transport.

The rear screed has integrated access steps with a textured diamond plate pattern upper surface. as the screen extends, the rear platform also extends with control consoles mounted on each side. One nice addition are the silver finished guide assemblies which are mounted to the ends of the screed and this shows the level of realism Kaster have added to the model.

Another functional aspect not normally found on a model is the full adjustment of the screed frame, with hydraulics at the rear controlling the height while the front tips of the arms can also be adjusted to change the angle of the screed plate and this is fairly stiff, allowing it to stay in position. The paver is pictured below alongside the BMP8500 trench compactor which is another new addition to the Fayat Group model collection.

The model is presented in a printed cardboard box with front window allowing the model to be seen within. the model itself is sandwiched between two clear plastic moulding's which hold it securely. The paint finish is excellent with quality printing of the designations and Bomag name.