National Highways has trialled a new ‘Intelligent Compaction’ technology that tests whether the road's foundations have the required strength.
The government-owned company said the technology takes the guesswork out of compaction, where any issues can impact a construction programme.
As part of a commitment to developing and promoting connected and autonomous plant, National Highways teamed up with contractor Galliford Try and Finning UK and Ireland to trial Intelligent Compaction on the A303 Sparkford and Ilchester to dualling scheme.
The technology uses 3D mapping and a sensor system to spot any uneven areas, which could cause settlement issues.
The machines used in the trial are fitted with Cat machine drive power technology and Cat compaction meter value.
The driver can set the target depth and compaction level required from the cab, which pre-sets the drive functions so the roller operates within the required parameters. This eliminates the need for a worker to be out on site during the process to check the levels.
National Highways’ head of innovation, Claire Hamar, said: ‘A huge positive that we discovered in the Intelligent Compaction trial was the improved efficiency and environmental benefits - as work did not need to be repeated so, thanks to the reduced fuel use, we had reduced carbon.
‘Not only is the work completed more quickly, saving resources and taxpayers’ money but, most importantly, it improves safety and reduces risk.’
Jonathan Davies, industry manager, industrial, waste and paving at Finning Ireland, said: ‘Cat soil compactors have two types of sensors that measure the ground stiffness, as well as an accelerometer base system, which is common in the industry, and complemented by a proprietary rolling resistance system so it works particularly well in cohesive and clay-like material, which is common across the UK.
‘Without the use of such technology, the only way to be sure of the compaction level across a site is through random testing, which can cause delays on site and safety issues.’
Funding for the trial came from National Highway’s Innovation and Modernisation designated fund.
