Let us guess... you're site super has asked you to source a vibe roller and you have no idea what that is. Don't stress, we're here to help. In this blog we’ll discuss the common specifications of a vibratory roller, what it is used for, its pros and cons, and how it compares to different types of road rollers available on the market.
Vibratory roller specifications
The specifications and dimensions of vibratory rollers can vary based on the specific model and manufacturer. Some of the specifications and dimensions that are common among vibratory rollers are:
| Specs | Value |
| Drum width | 1675 mm - 2133 mm range |
| Dynamic force | 3500 kgs - 4250 kgs range |
| Operating weight | 975 kgs - 1147 kgs range |
| Vibrating speed | 2600 vpm |
| Flow range | 53 - 85 LPM |
| Max. pressure | 205 Bar |
How do vibratory rollers work?
A vibratory roller uses its vibrating drum to compact various materials, such as soil, asphalt, or gravel. The vibration produced by the roller drum enhances the compaction process, resulting in a denser and more stable soil surface.
The drum's vibration frequency and amplitude are adjustable, allowing operators to fine-tune the compaction process according to the specific characteristics of the material and the project requirements. This precision control ensures a uniform and effective compaction outcome.
What is a vibratory roller used for?
- Road construction: Vibratory rollers play a vital role in road construction works, compacting soil and materials like asphalt or aggregates to create a strong and durable road surface by eliminating air voids.
- Foundation work: In large-scale building projects, vibratory rollers are commonly employed to compact the soil before the foundation is laid to ensure a solid and stable base for the building structure.
- Landfill construction: Vibratory rollers compact soil and waste layers for landfills, ensuring essential compaction to prevent settling and maintain structural integrity.
- Trench and pipeline construction: In utility constructions – such as for pipeline installations or trenching – vibratory rollers compact soil around structures to also prevent settling and ensure strong underground infrastructure stability.
- Embankment and dam construction: In building embankments and dams, vibratory rollers compact soil and materials to ensure a stable structure capable of withstanding heavy water weight and ground pressure.
Pros and cons of a vibratory roller
While it’s essential to know the importance of a vibratory roller in construction, it’s also equally important to know some of their key benefits and potential drawbacks:
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What are the differences between vibratory rollers and other types of rollers?
Double drum vs. single drum vibratory rollers
Double drum vibratory rollers, with front and rear drums, offer enhanced compaction on uneven surfaces. In contrast, single drum rollers with a single large drum are more manoeuvrable, making them suitable for smaller construction sites. While both effectively compact soil, double drum rollers provide greater stability on uneven terrain.
Oscillating vs. vibrating roller
Oscillating rollers move back and forth, which are ideal for high-moisture soils – while vibrating rollers move up and down and are better for dry soils. Although both offer effective compaction, vibrating rollers are more popular due to their easier manoeuvrability and quick coverage of large areas.
Pneumatic roller vs. vibratory roller
Pneumatic rollers, which we call multi-tyred rollers on iseekplant, have an air-filled vibrating drum, excel in compacting softer surfaces like dirt or sand. In contrast, vibratory rollers, powered by a hydraulic motor, are more suitable for harder surfaces like asphalt or concrete. Pneumatic rollers are often preferred for their manoeuvrability, making them ideal for smaller construction sites.
Smooth wheel vs. vibratory roller
Smooth drum rollers excel on smooth surfaces like asphalt, while vibratory rollers are ideal for soil and asphalt. Smooth wheel rollers effectively provide a final finish after compaction with a vibratory roller. Vibratory rollers use vibration to stabilise soil, making them crucial for construction sites requiring a stable foundation.
What’s the right choice for me?
If you're searching for a vibratory roller for your construction projects, choosing the vibratory roller just might mean that you're investing not only in a machine but in efficiency, stability, and long-term project success.
This is why, if you’ve made your choice for a vibratory roller, iseekplant's digital construction marketplace is the perfect place to find one.
We can connect you to a huge range of plant hire businesses across Australia that can provide quality vibratory rollers for wet or dry hire, suitable to your exact project requirements. Check out our marketplace now to access our extensive network of suppliers and find the roller you need with no fuss.
Get an accurate and customised estimate today on vibe rollers with our Get a Quote tool and connect with our network of suppliers!