How do roller machines work?

Roller machines operate using a combination of weight and vibrations to compress the ground. The weight of the roller machine is critical in this process. By simply driving over the material, the machine’s weight compresses it. The heavier the machine, the greater the pressure applied. For materials like asphalt, vibrations are often necessary. Many rollers use vibratory mechanisms. A vibratory motor inside the drum creates vibrations that move particles in the material, displacing air bubbles and water from the substrate. A roller machine typically passes over the same surface multiple times for optimal compaction.

Types of roller machines

Depending on the job and surface type, roller machines come with various features and applications. Smooth or ribbed drums provide different functionalities. Below are the main types of rollers:

The vibratory roller

The vibratory roller, also known as a single drum roller, is used in the construction of roads, parking lots, and other paved surfaces. It features a rotating drum that generates vibrations to compact the ground. This compaction process combines weight and vibration. Heavy steel rollers or cylinders compress the material, and an internal mechanism causes the rollers to vibrate, allowing material particles to settle closer together. These vibrations can be adjusted to suit the type of material being compacted. Vibratory rollers are commonly used for materials such as asphalt, clay, gravel, and sand.

The tandem roller

A variant of the vibratory roller is the tandem roller. This double drum roller has smooth rollers at the front and back, moving evenly over the material. Tandem rollers are most frequently used for laying asphalt, such as on roads and airport runways.

The static roller

The static roller, also referred to as a smooth roller, compacts material solely through the weight of its smooth cylinders. It does not use vibrations or additional mechanical movements, making it better suited for lighter compaction tasks such as building foundations or small roads. Materials typically compacted with static rollers include sand, clay, and gravel.

The combination roller

A combination roller features a smooth steel drum at the front and rubber tires at the back, combining static and dynamic compaction. Combination rollers are used in asphalt applications to create an even and finely finished layer. The rubber tires apply softer pressure, making them ideal for finishing layers where surface damage must be avoided.

The pneumatic roller

The pneumatic roller uses multiple tires instead of steel rollers. These tires distribute pressure more evenly, providing light compaction without damaging the surface. This type of roller is often used for finishing and compacting layers of asphalt or mixed materials, making them especially suitable for softer surfaces.

The oscillatory roller

An oscillatory roller uses an oscillation mechanism instead of vibrations. This mechanism produces lateral (side-to-side) movements rather than vertical (up-and-down) movements. Oscillatory rollers are ideal for areas where reduced impact on surrounding structures is needed.

The sheepsfoot roller

A sheepsfoot roller features drums with protrusions, commonly called "feet." These feet press deep into the ground, making the roller ideal for compacting clay or cohesive soil types. They can achieve compaction in deeper layers, making them perfect for foundations or dam constructions.

Vibratory rollers for sale at BAS World

Are you looking for a suitable vibratory roller? Look no further! At BAS World, we offer a wide selection of new and used vibratory rollers. We also have a variety of other types of roller machines available. If you have questions or are looking for a specific model, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to assist you!