Compaction is one of the most important processes in roadway construction. It is necessary in order to attain high quality and uniformity of pavement materials, which ensures long-lasting performance.
Enter intelligent compaction (IC). It is a method using technology that can help improve the compaction rate of the materials and make the roadway even stronger.
IC is the compaction of road materials, such as soils, aggregate bases, or asphalt pavement materials, using modern vibratory rollers equipped with an integrated measurement system, an onboard computer reporting system, global positioning system (GPS) based mapping, and optional feedback control. IC rollers facilitate real-time compaction monitoring and timely adjustments to the compaction process by integrating measurement, documentation, and control systems.
The IC roller measures and records the stiffness of the soil during the compaction process. The GPS on board creates a map that shows the coverage and relative stiffness across the entire surface of each lift of soil. This allows soil roller operators to better gauge whether soil is being under or over compacted.
IC may be used as a tool to cut labor, fuel costs, and time. The technology is gaining in popularity. Currently, 23 states have written IC specifications for asphalt paving jobs. Contractors that invest in this tool will be able to have a document that indicates the compaction level the entire length of roadway that they placed and compacted. A side benefit of this technology is the likely development of uniform standards of compaction in the read outs of these rollers.
IC is a technology that offers the ability to create a stronger and longer lasting road—and it is becoming a game changer for contractors working in this segment of the market.
