Advances in asphalt compaction are delivering increased performance

Advances in asphalt compaction are offering improved performance right across the spectrum of size and capacity – Mike Woof writes

New asphalt compaction machines are offering major gains in performance as firms develop new systems. Large and small asphalt compactors now offer higher output than earlier generation machines, while delivering better quality and lower fuel consumption as well as gains in reliability, durability, safety, ergonomics and operator comfort.

178 Caterpillar is offering a new range of compact asphalt compactors designed for markets such as rental. The new CB2.5, CB2.7, CB2.9, and CC2.6 are aimed at the 2.5-2.9tonne classes, with their numbering reflecting the machine weight. The machines are designed for use in compaction applications such as street repairs, bike paths, courtyards, patchwork, parking lots, driveways, town centres, and shoulder work.

To suit rental customers, the machines have simple operating controls and analogue displays for fuel level, engine temperature, and machine hours. Starting is said to be easy due to the firm’s novel glow-plug technology. The machines are also said to be easy to transport, further suiting the units to the rental market. Single lifting points mean the compactors can be lifted on or off a truck or trailer easily, while the ROPS units are available with a folding design as an option to allow passage under low obstructions.

Diagnostic tools and easy access for servicing and maintenance helps minimise downtime and the machines benefit from Caterpillar’s Product Link capability. This allows fleet owners to remain informed of machine location and service needs. All of the units are powered by a Caterpillar C1.5 diesel delivering 22.3kW that meets the Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIA/China Stage III emissions standards.

Dynapac’s compact CC1100 VI and CC1200 VI rollers are designed to be versatile, productive and easy to use. Suited to the rental market, these are 6th generation compactors that are able to cope with tough worksite conditions, according to the firm. The CC1100 has 1.1m wide drums while the CC1200 has 1.2m wide drums, with both models slotting into the weight class for machines between 3tonnes and 4tonnes.

The compactors are powered by 1265 Kubota diesels and 206 Dynapac is offering different versions to suit local market needs. Two engine variants are available for Tier 4 Final/Stage IV emissions requirements. One is a 28kW unit with a DPF aimed particularly at customers in North America. There is also a lower cost 18.5kW power unit for customers wanting to avoid the complexity of the aftertreatment package and this latter variant will also be well-suited to rental customers. Meanwhile a Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIA compliant diesel delivering 26kW is also available for certain markets. In addition, Dynapac says it will offer a Stage V compliant model for sale in Europe, when the new requirements come into force.

The diesels are mounted transversely, a layout intended to optimise engine access for maintenance. The combination of the transverse engine, sloping engine cover and relocation of the water tank to the rear chassis has helped improved forward visibility over the front drum.

A novel feature for this class of machine is the mechanical offset system. This allows the front drum to be offset by up to 50mm, allowing the machine to compact up close to kerbs, highway barriers, walls or buildings and increasing the machine’s overall versatility. The drums meanwhile have tapered edges, which helps maximise compaction quality by preventing edge marks. The machines have large drum diameters for this weight class, a design feature that prevents the asphalt from shovelling in front of the drums, a problem that can generate transversal cracks. The company claims that efficient eccentric systems are said to allow optimum vibration performance when starting. The vibration system allows high-frequency compaction, with a choice of dual frequencies available. Options include a front right mounted edge presser/edge cutter as well as a rear mounted chip spreader. The edge cutter and chip spreader can be manoeuvred using buttons in the F/R lever.

The models are also available in combi-versions, with four static rubber tyres at the rear. Other features include an effective pressurised and filtered sprinkler system with an accessible pump and filter and automatic water control as standard. The spray bars have three nozzles on each drum while the sprinkler timer helps save water while the tanks hold 205litres. Lifting/tie down/towing points are built-in to the cast forks for easy transport, while a central lifting point is also available which makes the transportation between job sites easier. The machine has a foldable ROPS and a total length (including ROPS) of 2.4m. An optional canopy is offered that is foldable for easy transportation. Other options include ROPS-mounted, LED working lights for night work.  

A new innovation from 2490 XCMG is its XD143S asphalt compactor, a 14tonne class machine that features high frequency vibration on its front drum at 67Hz, as well as oscillation on its rear drum. According to the firm, it has offered oscillation on previous generation compactors, but this is the first to combine this with high frequency vibration of up to 67Hz also. The machine features sophisticated electronic engine and compaction controls that help optimise performance. Its new compaction system and high frequency capability allow it to be used for higher output paving operations as well as for thin lifts. The 201 Deutz diesel is said to be highly fuel-efficient, with reduced fuel consumption aided by the sophisticated hydraulics and auto idle system.

Power comes from a Deutz diesel rated at 111kW, which meets the China Stage III emissions requirements. For the moment this machine is only being offered for the Chinese market but it will be available for export in due course. It is not yet clear if a Tier 4 Final/Stage IV version will be available for sale in the US and Europe, but given its sophistication and XCMG’s increasing worldwide presence, this remains a possibility.