PRODUCT FOCUS
ROLLING
WITH THE TIMES
By Allyson Koekhoven
Sandwiched somewhere between heavy equipment and small plant , compaction equipment is available in numerous configurations , for a variety of tasks and solutions .
From handheld rammers to the behemoth 26-ton Bomag BW 226DI-5 BVC or the Hamm 3625 HT VC 25-ton vibration crusher single-drum rollers , compaction equipment offers a solution for all industries and requirements .
Compaction equipment can be divided into two distinct categories : those for light soil compaction and those for heavy soil compaction . In general , light-compaction machines are preferred by the rental companies , whereas end users , such as construction and roadbuilding companies , invest more heavily in the heavyweight machines .
Light soil compaction equipment
Ideal for use in smaller or confined areas such as trenches , there are two main types of light compaction equipment : rammers and vibratory plate compactors . Rammers , which can be hand- or machine operated , deliver high-amplitude blows at frequencies of 500 – 750 per minute to compact cohesive soils . The machine weight varies from 30kg to 10 tons .
Vibratory plate compactors produce low-amplitude , high-frequency vibration , which is best suited for compacting granular soils with 4 – 8 % fines . These machines can weigh from 100kg up to two tons and have plate areas of between 0.16m 2 and 1.6m 2 . Vibratory plate compactors are available in two variants : forward travel plates , which are ideal for smaller areas and depths of up to 30cm , and reversible plates , which travel in forward and reverse directions and are heavier , for increased compaction force .
Heavy soil compaction equipment
Perfect for use in larger areas on different types of soils and on asphalt , concrete , and gravel , these rollers are available in smooth wheeled ( metal drum ) and rubber tyre models .
Smooth-wheeled rollers are further divided into static and vibrating versions . Smooth-wheel rollers are most suitable for consolidating stone soling , gravel , sand , hard core , ballast , and surface dressings . They are not suitable for consolidating embankments and soft subgrades , but are better suited than any other plant for compacting silty and sandy soils and with fewer passes . When the moisture content is a little more than optimum it will compact more easily . Tandem ( duplex ) rollers have one wheel at the rear and one wheel in front ,
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JUNE 2018