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Technology takes the guesswork out of road construction safety
Finning helped National Highways take the guesswork out of road construction and improve safety for workers by trialling new technology in heavy plant.
The first-of-a-kind technology ensures the right level of compaction is achieved first time while safety of on-site personnel is maintained.
As part of a commitment to developing and promoting connected and autonomous plant, we teamed up with National Highways and Galliford Try to trial the intelligent compaction innovation.
It was put to the test on a scheme in the Southwest by Galliford Try where National Highways is upgrading a stretch of the A303 between Sparkford and Ilchester to dual carriageway.
Compaction is one of the first activities to happen on site so any issues can impact the whole construction programme and increase costs. Using intelligent compaction provides reassurance that there is the required strength in the foundation and work can progress.
Using 3D mapping and a sophisticated sensor system, the technology ensures that the right level of compaction is achieved first time. The system is able to spot any uneven areas which can cause settlement issues down the line.
The machines used in the trial are fitted with Cat®, machine drive power technology and Cat compaction meter value.
Using these features, the driver was able to set the target depth and compaction level required via a user-friendly interface in the cab. This enables the operator to pre-set the drive functions so the roller is automated and operates within the required parameters. This ensures the task is completed safely and eliminates the need for a worker to be out on site during the compaction process to check the levels.
Technology increases performance and operational efficiency with the machine operating effectively with reduced fuel consumption. 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.
To see for yourself, have a look at the machine in action here:
