Hydraulic System
The hydraulic system of a small road roller comprises three main components: hydraulic propulsion, hydraulic vibration, and hydraulic steering. First adopted in the early 1980s, hydraulic transmission technology is now utilized in almost all self-propelled vibratory road rollers. The system typically incorporates a relief valve to serve as a maximum pressure limit protection mechanism.
Power System
Small road rollers can be powered by either diesel or gasoline engines. Gasoline engines are easy to start, operate smoothly, and produce low noise levels, though their vibratory compaction force is relatively lower. Diesel engines, conversely, offer robust power, lower fuel consumption, reliable performance, and a longer service life, but they generate higher levels of noise and vibration. During construction operations in severely cold weather, diesel engines equipped with electric starting systems offer distinct advantages.
Compaction Techniques
When compacting on slopes-whether ascending or descending-the road roller's drive wheels should always be positioned at the rear. Prior to compaction, ensure that the underlying layer of the asphalt mixture is clean and dry, and apply a tack coat (asphalt bonding layer). When ascending a slope, ensure the asphalt temperature meets the specified requirements before engaging the vibratory compaction function; when descending, avoid sudden changes in speed. During standard compaction operations, the machine should be set in motion before engaging the vibration mechanism, and the travel speed should be increased gradually from slow to fast. When compacting soft ground, perform one or two passes using static (non-vibratory) rolling before engaging the vibration. The vibration frequency should be maintained at a consistent level throughout the compaction process. The machine must be brought to a complete stop before shifting gears. Engaging the vibration mechanism while operating on hard, rigid surfaces is strictly prohibited.
Safety Operations
Operators must possess the appropriate certification to operate the equipment and should conduct a thorough inspection of the machine's condition prior to commencing work. Road rollers are strictly prohibited from traveling in a column (single file) on slopes; when two road rollers are traveling or compacting side-by-side on level ground, a minimum spacing of 3 meters must be maintained between them. Shifting gears while on a slope is strictly prohibited, as is allowing the machine to coast freely (without engine power) while descending. When compacting newly constructed roads, operations should proceed from the center of the roadway outward toward the edges, maintaining a minimum clearance of 0.5 meters from the edge of the roadbed. When relocating the machine to a different job site, it must be transported via a carrier vehicle and must not be towed or dragged along the ground. When compacting soft road surfaces or whenever a change in travel direction is required, the vibration switch must be disengaged (turned off) beforehand.
