The final article of this series concludes the most important points for optimal material compaction.
In this final article on the optimal use of compaction equipment, Case provides us with information on temperature readings and mapping technology, and we discuss the general benefits of compaction technology.
- Mapping Technology: Modern systems can document and display the details of every pass to ensure that the job was performed to spec. The future however lies in mapping technologies. Owners can plug in the coordinates of the jobsite and match that up with the information documented through the intelligent compaction system. This new combination of data and location helps show where the passes were, how many passes were made, the compaction levels, what the parameters were and more. If there’s an area on the jobsite that’s not reaching compaction levels, contractors will be able to pinpoint exactly where it is. For example, there could be bad base materials underneath or some other obstruction that is impeding the ability to achieve proper compaction.
- Temperature Readings: Even though we don’t often construct asphalt roads in forestry, it is still good to have an understanding of its compaction in case the situation arises where it must be used. Depending on the mix of asphalt, it will have to be compacted within a certain temperature range. As soon as it starts to get too cold, it will no longer compact correctly.
- Benefits of Intelligent Compaction Technology: Modern compaction machines have increased productivity due to optimally performing parameters and offer lower costs by eliminating re-work. With the rapid increase in compaction quality during the initial passes, fewer passes are required to reach the target specs, resulting in savings in time, fuel costs and machine maintenance. Another important benefit is simplified training. Contractors can put a newer operator on a compaction machine and some of the more advanced automation features can help them understand how to efficiently run the machine. While these systems are getting more intelligent, the human factor is still critical, and training helps bring new operators up to speed.