An array of new asphalt compaction machines and technologies are now available from key manufacturers. These offer improved performance and capabilities for customers.
BOMAG is offering its BOMAP mobile compaction mapping tool as an app for use on Android type phones. The system can be downloaded onto smartphones and tablets and uses the internal GPS system to locate position. Users can set how many passes are required to meet specification, with the tool helping deliver consistent compaction onsite. It does not require any special software.
The firm says that the app is ready for use immediately after installation and can document compaction results of rollers from any manufacturer, without the driver having to make any additional settings. The tool allows the user to assess the degree of compaction on the construction site and the results can be checked and documented. The roller operator can see where the surface has been compacted optimally or whether further passes are required.
Data from multiple machines can be downloaded from a fleet and viewed in the office by managers. The BOMAP Connect system offers full data for users, but can only be used with BOMAG machines however.
Caterpillar is offering new asphalt compactors that deliver improved performance. The CB4.0 compactor competes in the 4-tonne class and is powered by a C1.7 diesel rated at 28kW and which meets Tier 4 Final emissions requirements.
The Autovibe system switches off the vibration when the machine stops moving. An auto-shutdown feature means that the diesel will turn off automatically if the engine is left idling for a set period, reducing fuel consumption. A sensor in the seat means that the machine cannot operator unless someone is sitting in the seat. The machine’s compaction meter measures stiffness and Caterpillar’s telematics technology is offered, from the basic system up to full data availability as required.
Caterpillar
Moving up the size scale, Caterpillar’s CB10 is a 10-tonne class machine with power from the all-new C3.6 diesel rated at 90kW and which also meets Tier 4 Final emissions requirements. The machine has a drum width of 1.7m and is equipped with the Versa Vibe system with a choice of four amplitude settings, while vibration frequency also changes accordingly. Oscillation is available on the rear drum also, allowing the machine to be used on bridge deck compaction or joint compaction duties, for example.
Fore and aft cameras are integrated into the bumpers for protection and are displayed on the screen in the cab. The image defaults automatically to a view behind the machine depending on whether it is moving forwards or in reverse. Meanwhile, a ‘birds eye’ camera system is an option that uses four cameras located in the cabin’s ROPS structure.
Many of the same features are also fitted onto the 13-tonne class CB13 compactor, which, for example, shares the Versa Vibe system. A novel feature is the Smartcreep tool that allows the operator to set the travel speed. Should the machine pass over a hard spot, it will adjust the operation accordingly.
Dynapac
Dynapac is introducing various new twin drum compactors to suit an array of asphalt compaction needs. These include large high performance units for specific contractor needs as well as more compact units aimed at the rental market.
The firm is expanding its range of oscillatory compactors and is now introducing a 13.5tonne CO6200VI, with 1.8m-wide drums, in addition to the 13tonne CO5200VI, 11tonne CO4200VI and the 8.5tonne CO2200VI.
As with the existing oscillatory compactors from Dynapac, the CO6200VI has vibration on the front drum and oscillation at the rear. To optimise drum life, the firm has made the units from Hardox 450 steel to address the high wear rates seen on the drums of oscillatory compactors from rival firms. As a result, the oscillation drum is offered with a 7,500 hour/seven-year warranty.
A novel feature on the Dynapac is that the timing belts for the eccentric weights in the oscillation drum can be changed in just two hours onsite, without need of the two-day process to dismantle the drum required with rival units.
Oscillation type compactors are increasingly popular for duties onsite such as for use on bridge decks, thin asphalt layers and in urban areas where the noise and vibration from conventional units would make their use unsuitable.
The firm is also introducing the 4.3tonne CC1300VI and 4.75tonne CC1400VI in addition to the existing CC1100VI and CC1200VI models. The new machines share the transverse engine mounts of the existing machines, along with the efficient eccentric systems, dual (high) frequency compaction and dual amplitude. Options include operator canopies, an asphalt temperature sensor system edge presser/edge cutter units and a rear chippings spreader. Combi versions with four static rubber tyres at the rear are also available.
Power comes from Kubota diesels rated at 43kW that meet Tier 4 Final emissions requirements. Maintenance is said to be easy due to the transverse engine mounting, with good access to the various service points.
Aimed at the rental market, the new CC900S is a single-arm tandem roller in the 1.2–1.6-tonne class. This novel machine has the front right side of the drum free, which allows it to compact close to walls, sidewalks and guardrails. The front drum comes standard with a 60mm offset. Standard features include a backup alarm, large water tank, sprinkler timer and vibration shut-off system.
Sakai
Sakai is introducing a new safety system on its compactors called Autobrake, which is designed to prevent onsite collisions. This is being fitted as standard to the GW754 and TW504 models but will be fitted to other machines in the range in due course.
The system uses Lidar technology at 79GHz for detection and features three stages of warning, intensifying as the machine comes close to an object in its path. Once the machine gets to within 1m of the obstruction, it will stop the forward motion, preventing a collision. It also engages the park brake as well as shutting off the drive. The more sophisticated package for larger machines includes a CCTV system. According to Sakai, this will help increase onsite safety, reducing risks for construction workers.
