Caterpillar Compaction Manual

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Caterpillar
Compaction Manual

What is compaction?
Compaction can be defined in several ways. But in simplest terms, compaction is the
process of mechanically increasing the density of a material. Soil and asphalt, the
materials this manual are concerned with, are made denser by reducing the voids
between the particles, which make them up. In time, loose material would settle or
compact itself naturally. By applying various mechanical forces, we shorten the time
required to get compaction from years to hours.

Materials are made more stable by increasing their density.

One or a combination of these forces accomplishes compaction of soil or asphalt:
static pressure, impact, manipulation or vibration. These are the compactive forces
that will be discussed in this manual.

Why is compaction important?

Denser and more compacted material is able to support heavier loads without
deforming (bending, cracking, moving). The subgrade material, which supports a
heavy structure, must be very dense or it will compact even more under load,
causing the structure to settle. Likewise, asphalt mats must be well compacted or
they will lose their original shape when heavy axle loads are placed upon them.

Perhaps the best way to illustrate the importance of compaction is to look at various
layers of a typical roadway. Each layer of the roadway is designed to support the
weight placed on it. From the subgrade, to the base, to the paved base, to the final
riding surface – each layer must be constructed of the right material and be of the
proper thickness and density. If one layer is not strong enough, the road will fail.

It is also important to remember that the least expensive element of extending the
service life of a road is the compaction process. Increasing the density of the
roadway layers during the construction process costs very little in terms of cents per
ton of mix or cents per yard of soil. Achieving good density can save significant
dollars in future road maintenance and resurfacing costs.

Scope of this document

This document is intended as a user’s guide to soil and asphalt compaction
principles, testing techniques and on-the-job procedures. The content is slanted
toward practical, rather than theoretical, considerations. The chapters are arranged

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in a reference manual style to help you find the answers to your questions quickly.

Compaction Principles and Measurements

Forces of Compaction

Compaction is the process of compressing a material from a given volume into a

smaller volume. This is done by exerting force and movement over a contact area,
causing particles within the material to move closer together. The voids between the
particles – air, water or a combination of both – are expelled by the combination of
force and movement. Four forces are used in compaction: (1) static pressure, (2)
manipulation, and (3) impact and (4) vibration.

 
Static Pressure

: In static compaction, weighted loads, applied by rollers, produce shear stresses in

the soil or asphalt that cause the individual particles to slide across each other.
Compaction happens when the applied force causes individual particles to break
their natural bonds to each other and move into a more stable position within the
material. Static smooth-wheeled rollers, static sheepsfoot (or pad-foot) and tamping
foot rollers work on this principle. Four factors influence compaction performance on
static rollers. They are axle load, drum width, drum diameter and rolling speed.

Linear force is the measure of a static roller’s compaction potential. It is the vertical
force directly below the width of the drum or wheels that creates the shear stresses
for compaction. It is calculated by dividing the weight at the drum (axle load) by the
drum width. Linear force is expressed as pounds per linear inch (PLI) or kilograms
per centimeter (kg/cm). The higher the PLI, the greater the static compaction
potential for a given roller.

An important parameter of a static roller’s performance is the Nijboer quotient. The

quotient is the relationship between axle load, drum width and drum diameter. It is
an indicator of the tendency of a roller to shove or literally plow material ahead of the
drum. Research has shown that more cracks and larger ridges are formed with small
diameters because the surface of the material tends to accept the shape of the
drum as it is being compacted. The smaller the drum diameter, the greater the
drum’s curvature and the more likely it is to produce surface cracking and ridges in
the compacted material.

Based on the Nijboer quotient, the following conclusions can be reached. A larger
drum diameter can reduce ridge formations. Also, self-propelled rollers with drum
drives will not cause cracking of the upper layer of the material being compacted as
much as a wheel drive only or towed roller with the same drum diameter. With a
non-drum drive compactor, the torque created by bearing friction causes the drum to
skid. But a driven drum roller tends to pull the material under the drum rather than
push it.

Therefore, drum-driven, static rollers with lower Nijboer quotients perform better on
thick lifts of soft material.

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Manipulation: Manipulation, the second compactive force, rearranges particles into

a more dense mass by a kneading process. The process is especially effective at
the surface of the lift material. The longitudinal and transverse kneading action is
essential when compacting heavily stratified soils such as clay type soils. It is also
the desired process for the compaction of the final wearing surface of an asphalt
pavement. Manipulation helps to close the small, hairline cracks through which
moisture could penetrate and cause premature pavement failure. Sheepsfoot rollers
and staggered wheel, rubber tired rollers are specifically designed to deliver this
type of compactive force.

 
Impact: Impact creates a greater compaction force on the surface than an
equivalent static load. This is because a falling weight has speed, which is
converted, to energy at the instant of impact. Impact creates a pressure wave, which
goes into the soil from the surface. Impacts are usually a series of blows. Impact
blows of 5 to 600 blows per minute are considered low frequency ranges and are
used on impact hammers and hand tampers. Impact blows of 1400 to 3500 blows
per minute are high frequency and are used on vibratory compactors.

 
Vibration: Vibration is the final and most complex compactive force. Vibratory
compactors produce a rapid succession of pressure waves, which spread in all
directions. The vibratory pressure waves are useful in breaking the bonds between
the particles of the material being compacted. When pressure is applied, the
particles tend to reorient themselves in a more dense (fewer voids) state. To
understand how vibratory compactors work, it is necessary to know about centrifugal
force, amplitude and frequency.

 
Centrifugal force: In a vibratory compactor, centrifugal force is created by rotating
eccentric weight or weights. The mass of the weights, their offset distance from the
center of rotation to center of gravity, and speed of rotation all contribute to
production of this force. Centrifugal force is a theoretical calculation used to rate
machines. The true vibratory force depends on a complex interaction between
material being compacted and the machine.

 
Amplitude: Amplitude is the measure of total peak vertical movement of a vibrating
drum per complete cycle. By modifying the amplitude, an operator can vary the force
and the movement (acceleration) of the drum on the material. Amplitude
adjustments may be necessary when the soil or asphalt mix changes.

The effect of changes in amplitude can be illustrated by the analogy of hammering a

nail. In order to hammer a nail, certain drop height and speed are needed. When
drop height is reduced, it becomes almost impossible to drive the nail since the
impact energy is also reduced.

This principle applies to vibratory compactors. Providing everything else is the same,
i.e. drum weight, frequency, etc., a compactor with a higher amplitude produces
more compaction energy than a machine with low amplitude.

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Frequency: Frequency is a measure of number of complete cycles or revolutions of

the weight around the axis of rotation over a given length of time. Frequency is
usually expressed in units of vibrations per minute (vpm). The relationship between
frequency working speed is important. Machine speed and frequency need to be
matched to yield about one impact per inch (25 mm). Higher frequencies permit
higher working speeds without "washboarding" (impacts spaced too far apart).
Conversely, low frequencies require slower machine speeds.

 
Back to Top of Page

Dynamics of Vibratory Compaction

 
Factors Which Influence Vibratory Compaction

: Vibratory compaction of soil is a complex process. More than 30 different factors

influence the overall compaction effort. Vibratory compaction involves a drum which
is moving up and down (amplitude) very rapidly (frequency) and moving forward
(working speed) over a non-homogeneous material. All components influencing
compaction should be considered as a whole, not as separate entities. It is the
combined characteristics of the compactor and of the dirt or asphalt it is attempting
to compact that determines the degree of compaction effort.

The characteristics of the material to be compacted plays a part in the dynamics of

compaction. Type, gradation, texture, initial density, moisture content, aggregate
strength characteristics, layer thickness, subsoil base and its supporting capability all
influence compaction. The sum effect of these properties is termed mass stiffness
and damping.

The design of the machine is also important to the dynamics of compaction.

Influential factors include: frame size, overall weight, wheelbase, ratio of machine
weight supported over the front drum to rear drum or tires, and balance of machine
weight from left to right of the machine. The list continues with factors like drum
diameter, drum width, drum mass, shock isolators, eccentric weight mass, and the
distance between the eccentric weight center of gravity and drum axle. Even the
weight of fuel and operator have a bearing on the compactive performance of the
roller. The manufacturer carefully considers all these factors when the machine is
designed.

And, of course, frequency, amplitude and working speed influence compactive effort.
The operator can control these variables.

What all these factors mean is that it’s not always easy to set up a roller on a given
job to achieve the best compaction results.

The objective in vibratory compaction is to find a point of maximum transmitted force

into the material to be compacted. This occurs when the sum of all the components
– material characteristics, roller characteristics, amplitude, frequency and speed – is
contributing the most to the compactive effort.

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Resonance:

In vibratory compaction, a condition called resonance is very important. Simply

explained, resonance is a natural condition where an object will vibrate at a given
frequency when a given force is applied. Unlike materials have unlike resonance.
Because a compactor is made of and the soil or asphalt is composed of different
materials, they all have different resonances.

When a vibratory compactor is operating and one component reaches its resonant
frequency, it may be dampened by a neighboring component with a radically
different resonance. At times, the drum is at optimum resonance while the machine
yoke, with a different resonance, may be vibrating in a manner to dampen the
compactive effort. The drum and the soil or asphalt can create this same condition.
The uncoupled resonances work against each other, slowing the compaction
process. When the vibration of all the components of the machine and the material
to be compacted are coupled, that is when the compactive effort will be at its
maximum. The state when the resonances are working together is called harmonic
convergence.

Harmonic convergence in a vibratory compaction situation actually has several

peaks as centrifugal force is increased. If compactive effort were graphed, it would
show that as centrifugal force is increased, the compactive effort would have several
peaks and valleys. Typically there is a moderate first harmonic convergence, then
uncoupled resonance works to quickly drop off the compactive effort. Resonant
factors will converge again and peak quickly a second time. Usually, at this second
point, is where the harmonic convergence delivers maximum compactive effort.

 
Trial and Error Method: In conclusion, there is no easy way of predicting the level
of compactive harmony between a roller and the matter it is asked to compact. The
best method is trial and error. Obviously, the user will select a compactor of the right
size (drum width, weight, etc.) to match the productive requirements. But achieving
the maximum compactive effort is usually accomplished by experimentation with the
variables that the operator can control – frequency, amplitude and rolling speed. The
use of test strips and laboratory analysis is the best way of analyzing the
performance of a roller.

 
Measuring Compaction Density of Bituminous Material

Once an asphalt mix is compacted, an accurate measure of the density is important.

The nuclear gauge is becoming more popular for checking density because it is a
quick and nondestructive test. Other common test procedures require a sawed or
cored sample. Often, nuclear density values are correlated with core sample values
to determine differences that occur due to aggregate chemical composition, rough
surfaces or depth of measurement.

 
Field-Tests: Until the late 1960’s, most agencies did not impose density
requirements for asphalt pavements and little field-testing was done. Instead, they
relied on method-type requirements that specified types of compaction equipment
and procedures. But as the agencies ran into problems with the method

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specifications, they began to call for end result specification.

 
Core Samples: Many relied on density determinations from cores for compaction
control. Typically, 4-inch diameter cores were removed from the compacted
pavement and tested for density in the laboratory. Coring is accurate and direct, but
has some disadvantages. The procedure is relatively slow and expensive. More
importantly, the test results frequently are not available until the mat at the job site
has cooled well below temperatures suitable for further compaction. Waiting for the
lab results can result in rework or long delays in the paving process. Furthermore,
sampling frequencies tend to be low, and a few core samples represent large
volumes of material. Also, coring disturbs the pavement and requires patching.

 
Nuclear Density Gauges:

Because of the disadvantages of core sampling, many agencies have turned to

nuclear gauge testing as their primary means of density measurement.

Nuclear gauges are much faster than core sampling and can determine density at a
given location within minutes. Speed makes the devices suitable for acceptance
testing (target density) and to some extent for use in a contractor’s process control
(design specifications). The density can be measured while the pavement is still hot
enough to permit additional compacting, if necessary.

The disadvantage of nuclear gauges is that they measure density indirectly. That is,
the test output is a radiation count that must be referenced to a previously
established calibration curve of count versus density. Therefore, nuclear density
gauges require calibration at the job site so they are correlated with core densities
they will be measuring.

Nuclear gauges operate by a simple concept known as backscatter gauging.

Gamma rays are emitted by a radioisotope source contained in the gauge body. The
radiation travels out from the source and penetrates the pavement, where gamma
rays are scattered and/or absorbed. A counter in the device established the number
of gamma rays that return. The returning rays are proportional to the density.

Several characteristics of the backscatter gauge are critical. First, a gauge is more
sensitive to the material nearest the surface than to material farther down. Typically,
80% to 95% of the gauge count comes from the top 2 inches; little comes from
below 4 inches. This feature is not important in full depth, multi-layer asphalt
pavement construction, but IS important in thin (1 to 2 inches) overlay construction.
Although nuclear gauges operating in the backscatter mode get most of their count
from the top 2 inches, they still get 5% to 20% from the 2 to 4 inch range. As a
result, the density of the underlying material will significantly affect the reading from
a thin overlay.

The second important characteristic is the gauge’s sensitivity to surface roughness.

On a coarse-textured mat, the gauge body rests on the high points of the surface
and, therefore, can include considerable air space in the volume being measured. If
the surface roughness of a given pavement were equivalent to uniform 0.05 inch air
gap under the gauge, the reading would be reduced by about 4 lbs/cu ft. Gauge

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users frequently compensate for rough surfaces by filling the texture with fine sand.

The third characteristic is the gauge’s sensitivity to the chemical composition of the
asphalt mixture – that is, the aggregate composition. Given two pavements of the
same density, one with a siliceous aggregate and the other a calcareous aggregate,
a backscatter gauge could show as much as a 5 lbs/cu ft difference between the
displayed density values.

Finally, as with any other test method, the user must be concerned with precision –
how reputable are a gauge’s readings at a given location. For nuclear gauges,
precision is better when the returning gamma rays are counted for a longer period of
time. Typically, a one-minute count would have a precision of +/- 0.5 lbs/cu ft. A
four-minute count would be accurate to +/- 0.25 lbs/cu ft.

 
Compaction Specifications:

Target densities are established by the specifying agency before the job begins to
insure that the mat is adequately and consistently compacted. Generally, target
density is set on the basis of either relative or absolute measures.

A relative measurement may use a percentage of a laboratory standard. For

example, a specification may require a minimum of 95% of the density obtained from
a Marshall (AASHTO Test Method T-245) result. In this method, four or more
uncompacted mix samples are taken from the trucks delivering mix to the job site
each day. These samples are compacted under conditions similar to those found in
the field. The mix temperature should approximate paver temperature without
reheating and the number of compactive blows should be the same as were used in
the mix design.

Another example of relative target density measure is a nuclear density

specification. This usually requires the density to be 98% of the average density
obtained on a control strip. The control strip, or test section, is constructed at the
beginning of each lift or course. The same production equipment to be used on the
job is used on the control strip. Rolling pattern and mix temperature should also be
the same. The control strip is part of the job itself and should be at least 500 feet
long and the same width and thickness as the paving project.

The control strip is compacted until no increase in density is obtained or until the mix
cools to 185ºF. Nuclear density tests are then randomly taken. These readings are
averaged and compared to a laboratory compacted sample. If the average readings
indicate adequate density in relation to laboratory sample, the target density is
usually set at 98% of the control strip readings. If adequate density is not met, a new
control strip is constructed incorporating necessary changes in equipment, mix
temperature and/or modified rolling patterns.

The other type of specification is an absolute measure of a voidless mix or a

percentage of the maximum theoretical density. AASHTO Test Method T-209
determines this. Usually, the target density is a minimum of 92% of the maximum
theoretical density. This means that the maximum air void content is 8%.

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Summary:

A common misconception is that obtaining the proper density during construction is

not important because the traffic loads will eventually compact the mix. This may be
true for wheel paths, but traffic does not provide a uniform density across the
pavement and will produce ruts proportional to the amount of consolidation that
occurs due to insufficient density.

The single most important property for asphalt pavement, then, is optimum density.
Achieving this requires good mix design and good construction techniques. Nuclear
density tests as well as core samples can be used as a measure of density. Whether
a relative density procedure or an absolute density procedure is used, a target
density must be established and must be met.

 
Back to Top of Page

Methods of Measuring Soil Compaction

The value of compacting base and subbase soils has long been understood. But it
was not until 1933 that R.R. Proctor of the Los Angeles Bureau of Water Works
developed a standardized method for determining the optimum water content and
the corresponding maximum dry density. The Proctor Test used a manually
operated ram to compact three layers of the soil in a confined mold.

 
Laboratory Tests

Today, the procedures of the Proctor Test have been adopted and further
standardized by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials (AASHTO). The Standard AASHTO procedure (T-99) uses a 5.5 lb. (2.5 kg)
hammer dropped freely from a height of 12 inches (3054 mm). Again, the soil is
compacted in three layers by 25 hammer blows in a 4 inch (102 mm) diameter mold.
This test imparts a total of 12,400 ft. lbs. of compactive effort to the soil sample.

Modified compaction tests also have been introduced by AASHTO in connection with
structures requiring heavier bearing strength to support extremely heavy loads or to
limit settlement. According to the Modified AASHTO procedure (T-180), a 10 lb. (4.5
kg) hammer is dropped from a height of 18 inches (457 mm). The soil sample is
compacted in five layers with 25 blows per layer. The compaction energy is 4.5
times larger than the Standard AASHTO test, producing 56,200 ft. lbs. of effort.

For a given soil sample, either that Standard of Modified AASHTO is performed five
times. The same procedure is used each time the test is run, but the moisture
content is varied for each.

The series is begun with the soil in a damp condition somewhat below the probable
optimum moisture content. After the first sample is compacted in the mold, its wet
unit weight is taken and a portion of the sample is placed in a drying oven. When the
sample is completely dry, it is weighed again. The difference between the wet and
dry weight yields is the moisture content that is expressed as a percent of the dry
weight.

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A second sample with increased moisture content is compared and the weighing
and drying process is repeated. Additional samples with increasing moisture content
are processed until the wet unit weight decreases or the soil becomes too wet to
work.

The dry density and moisture content values for each sample are then plotted and a
smooth curve is formed. The highest point on the curve represents the maximum dry
density and the optimum soil moisture content for that sample. In other words, that is
the absolute laboratory compaction for the amount of compactive effort used on this
particular soil.

Laboratory tests determine the moisture content at which maximum density can be
attained. It is recognized that this density cannot readily be achieved in the field by
conventional compaction equipment. Therefore, field target densities are specified
as a certain percent of the maximum laboratory dry density. Generally, required field
densities will fall in a range of 90%-95% of Standard AASHTO. Likewise, the
moisture content must be within a range of the laboratory determined optimum
moisture content.

 
Field Tests

Periodic field-testing is done to insure that the two important elements – target
density and moisture content – are being maintained throughout the particular
construction job. These tests can also indicate the effectiveness of the compaction
equipment and construction methods being used.

The most common field testing methods are the Nuclear Method, the Sand-Cone
Method and the Water Balloon Method.

 
Nuclear Method:

Nuclear density meters emit radiation into the soil being tested and counters
measure both moisture content and density. The test is quick and can be performed
without disturbing the material.

There are two basic methods of measuring density – backscatter and direct
transmission. The direct transmission method gives the best accuracy, least
composition error and least surface roughness error. It can be used for testing over a
range of depths from two to twelve inches. The most important aspect of the direct
transmission method is that the operator has direct control over the depth of
measurement.

The backscatter method eliminates the need to create an access hole in the
compacted soil because the unit rests on the surface. However, accuracy is less and
composition errors are likely. This method works best in shallow depths – two to
three inches.

Still another method offers an improvement in composition error and can be used in
either the direct or the backscatter mode. This is known as the air-gap method. The
testing device is raised above the test surface to lessen the composition error, but

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accuracy will still not match the direct transmission method.

The limitations for nuclear testing equipment are the precautions that must be
observed when handling radioactive material, and the fact that false readings are
sometimes obtained from organic soils or materials high in salt content.

 
Sand-Cone Method:

The sand-cone method is a multi-step procedure which is more time consuming

than the nuclear density method, but has had proven accuracy. It is sometimes used
in conjunction with the nuclear method to verify the calibration of the nuclear density
meter.

First, a test site away from operating equipment (so vibrations do not disturb the
test) is selected and leveled. The unit’s base plate is laid on the compacted surface
and material is excavated through the hole in the plate to a depth of about six inches
(150 mm).

This wet material is weighed, dried in an oven and weighed again to determine the
moisture content.

The volume of the hole is measured by filling it with dry, free-flowing sand from a
special sand-cone cylinder. Since the density of the sand is known, the volume of
the hole can be calculated.

The density (wet unit weight) of the compacted sample is found by dividing the
weight of the material by the volume of the hole. Dry unit weight can be found by
dividing the wet unit weight by one plus the moisture content (expressed as a
decimal). For example, if the moisture content is 9%, the wet unit weight would be
divided by 1.09 to find dry density.

 
Water Balloon Method:

The water balloon method is also called the Washing Densometer Test. The test’s
first three steps – excavating a sample, weighing it and drying it – are the same as
performed in the sand-cone method. In this manner, moisture content is calculated.

However, in place of the sand-cone step to measure the volume of the excavated
hole, a Washington Densometer is used. The Densometer, a fluid-filled device, is
placed over the hole, and a balloon attached to the base plate is placed in the hole.
A valve is opened on the side of the Densometer and calibrated fluid is forced into
the balloon. As the balloon is filled, it takes on the shape of the hole. The
Densometer is calibrated so the tester can read the volume of fluid and thus the
volume of the hole.

The density (wet unit weight) is found by dividing the weight of the excavated
sample by the volume of the hole – just as with the sand-cone method. Dry unit
weight also can be calculated by dividing the wet unit weight by one plus the
moisture content.

Limitations to the water balloon method are, again, the length of time needed to get

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results and the fact that accuracy depends on the ability of the balloon to conform to
any irregularities along the sides of the hole.

 
Types of Specifications

Before the contractor can bid or assign compaction

equipment to a particular job, he must determine what limits
have been put on material placement, preparation and
compaction.

There are general types of specifications used by sponsoring

agencies to establish minimum standards of compaction for
embankments, bases or asphalt courses. They are: Method
Only, Method and End Result, Suggested Method and End
Result, and End Result.

Method Only Specification:

When Method Only specifications are used, the sponsoring

agency describes in detail the type of equipment to be used,
the number of passes, the roller speed, layer thickness and
other details like moisture content. It states nothing about
results. It is the least satisfactory specification for the
contractor because it forces him to obtain equipment for use
on materials when other equipment may yield cost savings
and better results. There is no assurance that satisfactory
results will be obtained.

Method and End Result Specification:

This specification is even more restrictive. A typical example

of this specification would call for the contractor to achieve
95% AASHTO with a minimum number of passes on a
specific lift thickness using a certain roller. It limits the
contractor’s use of his experience and new compaction
techniques. More importantly, it requires the contractor to
obtain an end result using equipment that may be incapable
of getting density on specific soil type or mix design.

Suggested Method and End Result Specification:

This is a better arrangement and is becoming more popular. It

offers the contractor better flexibility while assuring quality
results. The experienced contractor has the latitude to make
use of his experience and initiative, while the less
experienced contractor is provided helpful guidelines.

End Result Specification:

Here, only the desired end result is specified. This gives the
contractor the full choice to set the equipment to do the job
and to enhance the productivity of other equipment. This

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specification requires strict testing procedures. However, it

permits the development of compaction technology that
speeds the compaction process and reduces cost.

 
Back to Top of Page

Soil Compaction

What is soil?
Soils are deposits of disintegrated rocks that have been slowly broken down by
physical and chemical processes. The physical processes include freezing and
thawing, rolling, grinding and blowing. The resulting gravels, sands and silts are
essentially miniature boulders.

Chemical processes form clay soils. Long term weathering action and rainfall play an
important part in creating clays. Clay differs from sand and gravel in that it consists
of tiny flat particles with plate-like structures that come from a variety of rocks.

Plant growth also contributes to soil formation. When plants die, their residue
becomes part of the soil. Soils with high organic matter content are usually too
spongy and weak to be used for structural purposes.

 
Soil Groups
Although soils may very widely in physical and chemical
make-up, five fundamental groups are recognized.

1. Gravel:
2.
3. Individual grains vary in size from .08 to 3.0 inches (2.0 to 76.2 mm) in
diameter and have a rounded appearance.
4. Sand:
5.
6. These are small rock or mineral fragments smaller than .08 inch (2.0
mm) in diameter and semisharp.
7. Silt:
8.
9. Fine grains appearing soft and floury when dry. When moist, silt pressed
between the thumb and forefinger will have a broken appearance.
10. Clay:
11.
12. Very fine textured soil that forms hard lumps or clods when dried. When
moist, clay is very sticky and can be rolled into a ribbon between the
thump and forefinger.
13. Organic:
14.
15. This matter consists of either partially decomposed vegetation (peats) or
finely divided vegetable matter (organic silts and clays).

 
Properties of Soil

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Engineers use a number of terms when defining the characteristics and properties of
various soils. Understanding these terms is essential to understanding soil
compaction principles and techniques.

Capillarity: Capillarity is the ability of a soil to absorb water upwardly or laterally.

This is a desirable characteristic for base material used as a layer between he
subgrade and the pavement of a roadway. It allows water to drain out of the
subgrade. Capillary water is held in the soil by small pores or voids. It is considered
free water; it can be removed only by lowering the water table or by evaporation.
Without a capillary base, trapped water would soften and expand the subgrade,
resulting in an inadequately supported surface and premature deterioration of the
roadway.

Compressibility: Compressibility is the rate of the soil’s reduction in volume when a

force is applied to it. Soils with high compressibility have particles that easily reorient
themselves to reduce the space available for air or water voids. Clay soils usually
have higher compressibility than granular soils. Therefore, compacted clay has less
capillarity and is less suitable then granular soils for base material.

Elasticity: Elasticity is the tendency of a soil to return to its original, or near original,
shape after a compressive load is removed. This is an undesirable characteristic for
soils that must bear fluctuating loads. Roads with highly elastic bases or subgrades
soon fail due to constant flexing under load/no load conditions. Elastic soils usually
are chemically stabilized to reduce their elasticity before they are compacted and
used to support a load. Organic soils have very high elasticity.

Permeability:

Permeability is the ease with which water flows through a soil. This is not the same
as capillary, which is the soil’s ability to absorb water. Soil texture, gradation and the
degree of compaction influence a soil’s permeability. Usually, coarse-grained soils
are more permeable than fine-grained soils because they have larger voids between
their particles.

Plasticity:

Plasticity refers to a soil’s compressibility and degree of cohesiveness. The measure

of plasticity is expressed as the Plasticity Index (PI). Soils, such as most clays, that
have high PI values, are quite compressible and have a high degree of cohesion. A
soil with a zero PI is cohesionless and non-plastic. The soil’s moisture content also
affects its PI.

Settlement:

Settlement is the process by which poorly compacted soil particles reorient

themselves into an uneven mass. Settlement is usually due to inadequate or uneven
compaction. The resulting uneven surface elevation is directly related to the volume
of voids settling out over time.

Shear Resistance:

Shear resistance is the resistance the soil’s particles have to sliding across each
other when a compactive force is applied. The shearing strength of soil is the result

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of internal friction (resistance to sliding over each other) and cohesion (attraction to
each other). Irregularly shaped particles have higher shear resistance than smooth
shaped particles. The higher the shear resistance, the more compactive force is
required to achieve the needed density. Clay has low shear resistance.

Shrinkage/Swelling:

Visible shrinkage or swelling is an indication that the soil is fine-grained, such as

clay. The cycle of shrinking and swelling results from the release and buildup of
moisture within the soil. This type of soil provides a poor foundation since constant
changes in volume can cause structural failure in buildings or pavements dependent
on stable support.

 
Moisture Content
Water is present in all soils in their natural state. It appears in
one of three ways.

1. Gravitational water
2.
3. is free to move downward due to the force of gravity. It can drain
naturally from a soil.
4. Capillary water
5.
6. is held in a soil by small pores or voids. It is considered free water but
can be removed only by lowering the water table or by evaporation.
7. Hygroscopic water
8.
9. is present in the soil after gravitational and capillary water is removed.
This water is held by individual soil grains in the form of a very thin film
having physical and chemical affinity for the soil grains. It is also called
"air-dry" moisture content. This water would have to be removed by
baking the soil in an oven to get the true weight of the soil.

The effect of the soil’s moisture content on compaction was

discussed in Chapter Two. For each type of soil, there is
optimum moisture content at which maximum density can be
reached with the smallest amount of compactive force. The
Proctor Test done in a laboratory and various field tests are
used to calculate moisture content.

The way that moisture content affects soil compatibility can

best be understood by examining soil limits.

 
Soil Limits
Certain limits of soil consistency – Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, Plasticity Index,
Shrinkage Limit – were developed by A. Atterburg, a Swedish soils scientist.
Sometimes called the Atterburg Limits, these are the basis for differentiation
between highly plastic, slightly plastic and non-plastic materials.

Liquid Limit (LL):

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This is the moisture content at which a soil passes from a plastic to a liquid state.
This means that there is enough moisture in the soil to overcome internal friction
and cohesion.

A simple test has been developed to determine a soil’s liquid limit. Take a moist
sample of soil and place it in a small bowl, flattening the sample somewhat. Make a
deep groove in the sample and tap the bottom of the bowl 10-20 times, watching the
groove. It the faces of the groove remain the same distance apart, pick up the
sample, add more water to it, and repeat the process. When the faces of the groove
move together, the sample has become somewhat liquid and has reached its liquid
limit.

High LL values are associated with soils of high compressibility. Typically, clays
have high LL values; sandy soils have low LL values.

Plastic Limit (PL):

This condition exists when a soil changes from a semi-solid to a plastic state. It
occurs when the soil contains just enough moisture that a small amount of it can be
rolled into a 1/8" (3.2 mm) diameter thread without breaking.

The PL of a soil is important. It represents the moisture content at which particles

will slide over each other and still possess appreciable cohesion. It is the point at
which best compaction occurs with pure clay soils. The strength of the soil
decreases rapidly as the moisture content increases beyond the plastic limit.

Plasticity Index (PI):

This is the numerical difference between a soil’s plastic limit and liquid limit. Soils
having high PI values are quite compressible and have high cohesion. Soil has little
or no cohesion when the moisture content is at the liquid limit, but has considerable
cohesion when the moisture content is at the plastic limit. Therefore, the PI offers a
means of measuring the compressibility and cohesion of a soil. The PI also indicates
permeability. The higher the PI, the lower the permeability, and vice versa. On many
jobs, the specifications call for material with a certain gradation, a maximum LL and
a maximum PI.

Shrinkage Limit (SL):

As the soil is dried below the plastic limit, it shrinks and gets brittle until all the
particles are in contact and can shrink no more. This point is called the shrinkage
limit. The SL is the best moisture at which to compact many non-plastic (sandy)
soils. Soils containing enough clay to raise the PI are best compacted somewhere
between the SL and PL limits.

 
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Soil Classification
There are a number of different agency soil classification systems in use today. They
all use the terms gravel, sand, silt and clay, but with slightly different numbering or
lettering systems. In this manual, we’ll introduce two of the most commonly used

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systems without going into technical detail.

AASHTO Classification System:

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials system of

soil classification is the most widely used and is based on field performance of soils
for highway construction. It is also known as the Bureau of Public Roads Soil
Classification. The system divides materials into seven major groups with a number
of subgroups.

AASHTO SOIL GROUP DESCRIPTIONS

A-1-a Mostly gravel with or without well-graded fines

A-1-b Mostly sand with or without well-graded fines
A-2-4 Granular material with silty fines
A-2-5
A-2-6 Granular material with clayey fines
A-2-7
A-3 Poorly graded sand with almost no fines or gravel
A-4 Mostly silty fines
A-5 Uncommon soil type with silty fines usually elastic and hard to compact
A-6 Have either silty or clayey fines with low liquid limit
A-7-6

 
AASHTO CLASSIFICATIONS
     
General Granular Materials Silt-clay materials
Classification
(35 % or less of total sample passing No. 200) (More than 35% of total sample passing
No. 200)
Group A-1 A-3 A-2 A-4 A-5 A-6 A-7
Classification A-1-a A-1-b A-2-4 A-2-5 A-2-6 A-2-7 A-7-5

A-7-6
Sieve analysis                      

                     
% passing:
                   
50 max
No. 10
               
50 max 51 min
30 max
No. 40
35 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 36 min 36 min 36 min 36 min
25 max 10 max
15 max
No. 200
Characteristics                    
of fraction
passing                    
No.40:
                   
Liquid limit    
40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min
Plasticity index 6 max N/P
10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min 10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min
Group Index 0 0 0 4 max 8 max 12 max 16 max 20 max

 
The chart lists the sieve analysis as well as the liquid limit and plasticity index for the
fractions passing the No. 40 sieve. A group index based on a formula that considers
particle size, LL and PI is given at the bottom of the chart. The group index shows
the suitability of a given soil for embankment construction. A group index number of

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"0" indicates a good material while a group index of "20" indicates a poor material.
Laboratory tests are conducted to determine the AASHTO classification of a soil
sample.

Unified Soil Classification System: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation use this system. It uses texture as the descriptive term.
The symbols and modifiers are listed below.

SYMBOLS:

G – Gravel, smaller than 3" (76 mm), larger than ¼" (6 mm)
S – Sand, smaller than ¼" (6 mm) but large enough to see
M – Silt fine-grained soils, individual grains
C – Clay, grains too small to see with the naked eye

MODIFIERS (Sand & Gravel):

W – Well graded having large, medium and small grains

P - Poorly graded having uniform sized grains
C – Clayey
M – Silty

MODIFIERS (Silt & Clay):

L – Low plasticity
H – High plasticity

Again, a laboratory based on sieve analysis and tests for the plasticity index and
liquid limits establishes these classifications.

 
Soil Classification in the Field
When complete laboratory facilities are not available, some simple field tests can be
used to classify various soils. The tests are used to determine gradation, plasticity
and dispersion.

 
Gradation:

To test the gradation of dry soil, spread a sample of the soil on a flat surface. Use a
piece of stiff paper or cardboard as a rake to sort the larger soil particles to one side.
Estimate the percentage of particles larger than ¼" (6 mm) and the percentage of
fines (too small for the individual grains to be seen by the unaided eye). Also,
estimate whether the larger particles are uniform in size (poorly graded) or have
large, medium and small sizes (well graded).

If the soil is wet, break a lump apart with a pencil and make percentage estimates as
in the dry soil method. To find the percentage of fines, put 1/8" of water in a clear
glass and then add enough soil to fill the glass to the ¼ level. Add water until the
soil is just covered. Mark this level with a rubber band. Fill the jar ¾ full with water
and stir the mixture vigorously. Let settle about a minute and a half and mark the
height of the soil that has settled out. The difference between the two marks
represents the percentage of fines.

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Plasticity of Fine Grained Soils: There are several field tests you can perform to
estimate a soil’s plasticity.

 
A. Shaking Test –

A.

A. Pick up a lump of fine-grained soil and knead it together, working out as

many large grained particles as possible. Add water gradually and knead
the soil until it begins to get sticky. Hold the ball of soil in the palm of one
hand and tap the back of that hand with the fingers of the other hand. If
the ball gets shiny and wet on the surface, it is mostly fine sand or silt.
Clays have little or no reaction to this test and simply get messy.
B. Toughness Test
C.
D. – Take about half the ball of soil and knead it between thumb and
forefingers to dry it out. Then, attempt to roll the soil sample into a 1/8
"thread" or "worm." If a worm cannot be formed at all, the soil is definitely
a silt or fine sand. Highly plastic soils take a long time to dry out. They
get hard and waxy and considerable pressure is required to form a worm
that just breaks at the 1/8" (3 mm) diameter.
E. Dry Strength Test –
F.
G. Take the other half of the ball of soil and knead it into a ball. Set it aside
to air dry. When the soil is dry, crush it and select a jaggy, pointy
fragment. Try to crush this fragment between the thumb and forefinger.
Silt will turn to powder with little effort. A clay will be like a rock and
almost impossible to crush with the fingers.
H. Hand Washing --
I.
J. After handling silts and sands, the fingers will feel dusty and rubbing the
fingers together will almost clean them. Water flowing gently from a
faucet will rinse off the soil. When clays are handled, a crust will form on
the fingers that cannot be rubbed off when dry. Water will not rinse it off.
The hands must be rubbed together under water to cleanse them.

Dispersion:

In addition to the field tests just described, the dispersion test

can be used to determine percentages of soil grain sizes as
well as an indication of how difficult it will be to compact the
soil. All that is needed is a clear glass, water and
representative soil sample.

Fill the glass 1/4 to 1/3 with the material. Then fill the
container with water to within ½ inch (13 mm) of the top. Stir
the mixture well and observe how the material settles out.

The material will settle in three distinct layers; sand at the

bottom, silt next and finally clay. Besides showing various

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groups, the results will show whether the soil is well or poorly
graded. Although the silt and clay particles are smaller than
the eye can see, gradation changes can be observed by color
differences. Also, the longer it takes a layer to settle, the
smaller the particles will be.

There are several things that can be learned from the

dispersion test. It will show the basic materials and gradation
of each, and the settling time will indicate the fineness of the
particles. In most cases, a single particle size (poor gradation)
and a small particle size will mean more difficult compaction
than a mix where there is a good gradation of all particle
sizes.

 
Summary of Identifying Clues: For the various soil types, there are distinct
reactions to the field tests.

 
Clays – No reaction to the shaking test, a tough worm that dries out slowly, a
crusty dry residue that is hard to remove from hands.

Silts – Rapid reaction to the shaking test, a weak or crumbly worm, powdery
residue that is easily wiped or washed off hands.

Silt and Clay Mixtures – intermediate or conflicting reactions to hand tests.

Sand or Gravel with few Fine Clays – Enough clay to soil the hand if a wet
sample is kneaded, but not enough to allow a lump of clay to be formed.

Sand or Gravel with Silt Fines – Any mixture with dusty or fairly gritty fines.

Clean Sands and Gravels – Water added to these soils sinks in immediately
without making any mud.

Shot or Ripped Rock – Jagged material not having enough smaller material to
fill the voids.

 
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Soil Compaction Equipment

Many factors influence the choice of compaction equipment. The type of equipment
selected for a project is sometimes chosen based on the contractor’s previous
experience, by the type of soil or by method specifications. Other considerations are
how well a machine will conform to the hauling and spreading operation. Climatic
and traction conditions are also important. Standardization of equipment sometimes
plays a role in the decision-making process.

There is no one compactor that will do all things on all jobs. Each type has a definite
material and operating range on which it is most economical.

Pneumatic Tire Compactors:

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Pneumatic tire compactors are used on small to medium sized compaction jobs,
primarily on bladed, granular base materials. Pneumatics are not suited for high
production, thick lift embankment compaction projects.

The compactive forces (pressure and manipulation) generated by the rubber tires
work from the top of the lift down to produce density. The amount of compactive
force can be varied by altering the tire pressure (the normal method) or by changing
the weight of the ballast (done less frequently). The kneading action caused by the
staggered tire pattern helps seal the surface.

One advantage that pneumatic compactors have is that there is little bridging effect
between the tires. Therefore, they seek out soft spots that may exist in the fill. For
this reason, they are sometimes referred to as "proof" rollers.

Another advantage is that pneumatic rollers can be used on both soil and asphalt so
a roadbuilding contractor can save by having one compactor for both stages of
construction – base and asphalt.

 
Sheepsfoot Roller:

Sheepsfoot rollers got their name from the fact that early Roman roadbuilders used
to herd sheep back and forth over base material until the road was compacted. The
word "sheepsfoot" became a generic term to describe all types of padded drums. In
reality, a sheepsfoot roller is very different from a padded drum or tamping foot
roller.

A sheepsfoot pad is cylindrical; usually 8" (203 mm) long. The pad face is circular
and will range in size from 7 square inches to 18 square inches. The pads on
tamping foot or padded drums are tapered with an oval or rectangular pad shape.
The pad face is smaller that the face of the pad, an important difference.

The pads on sheepsfoot drums penetrate through the top lift and actually compact
the lift below. When a pad comes out of the soil, it licks up or fluffs material. The
result is a loose layer of material on top. When more fill is spread, the top lift will be
fluffed and the previous layer will be compacted. A sheepsfoot roller compacts from
the bottom up.

Using a sheepsfoot compactor has one definite benefit. Because the top lift of soil is
always being fluffed, the process helps aerate and dry out wet clays and silts.

But the disadvantages of sheepsfoot rollers are numerous. The loose top lift material
can act as a sponge when it rains and slow the compaction process. The loose
material also slows hauling units bringing fill material, so haul cycles are increased.

Plus, sheepsfoot compactors can work only at speeds from 4 to 6 mphs (6-10 km/h),
which cancels any benefit from impact and vibration. Pressure and manipulation are
the only compactive forces exerted on the soil. Usually 6-10 passes are needed to
get density on 8" (203 mm) lifts.

 
Tamping Foot Compactors:

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Tamping foot compactors are high speed, self-propelled, non-vibratory rollers. They
usually have four steel padded wheels and are equipped with a dozer blade. Their
pads are tapered with an oval or rectangular face.

Like the sheepsfoot, it compacts from the bottom of the lift to the top. But because
the pads are tapered, the pads can walk out of the lift without fluffing the soil.
Therefore, the top of the lift is also being compacted and the surface in relatively
smooth and sealed.

Because tamping foot compactors are capable of speeds in the 15-20 mph (24-32
km/h) range, they develop all four forces of compaction: pressure, impact, vibration
and manipulation. This increases their compaction ability as well as production.
Generally 2 to 3 passes will achieve desired densities in 8"-12" (2030-305 mm) lifts,
although 4 passes may be needed in poorly graded plastic silt or very fine clay.

The main disadvantage or limitation to the use of tamping foot compactors is that
they are best suited for large projects. They need long, uninterrupted passes to build
up the speed that generates high production. They are also considerably more
expensive than single drum vibratory compactors.

 
Vibratory Compactors:

Vibratory compactors work on the principle of particle rearrangement to decrease

voids and increase density. They come in two types: smooth drum and padded
drum. Smooth drum vibratory compactors generate three compactive forces:
pressure, impact and vibration. Padded drum units also generate manipulative force.
Compaction is assumed to be uniform throughout the lift during vibratory
compaction.

Density results from forces generated by a vibrating drum hitting the ground.
Compaction results are a function of the frequency of these blows as well as the
force of the blows and the time period over which the blows are applied. The
frequency/time relationship accounts for slower working speeds on vibratory
compactors. Working speed is important because it dictates how long a particular
part of the fill will be compacted. For vibratory compactors, a speed of from 2 to 4
mphs (3.2 to 6.2 km/h) will provide the best results.

Smooth drum vibratory compactors were the first machines introduced and are most
in granular materials, with particle size ranging from large rocks to fine sand. They
are also used on semi-cohesive soils with up to 10% cohesive soil content. Lift
thicknesses vary according to the size of the compactor but, generally, the lift
thickness of granular material should not exceed 24" (607 mm). Whenever large
rock is used in the fill, the lifts may be very thick – up to 4’ (1.2 m) are not unusual.
One thing to remember when large rocks are in the fill is that the thickness should
be about a foot (305 mm) more than the maximum rock size. This permits lift
consolidation without having the large rocks project above the fill surface.

When padded drum machines were made available, the material range was
expended to include soils with up to 50% cohesive material and a greater
percentage of fines. When the pad penetrates the top of the lift it breaks the natural
bonds between the particles of cohesive soil and better compaction results. The

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pads are involuted to walk out of the lift without fluffing the soil and tapered to help
clean them. The typical lift thickness for padded drum units on cohesive soil is in the
12" to 18" (305 mm to 457 mm) range.

 
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Soil Compaction Procedures

Before laying out a compaction job, the contractor must consider the job size, fill
requirements, rate of placement and specifications. Basically, there are two types of
job layouts – the Project Method and the Progressive Method.

 
Job Layouts

Project Method:

Small jobs are best suited for this method. Fill material is moved into the area and
spread in lift thicknesses depending on the compactor’s capabilities. The,
compaction proceeds over the entire area until density is reached. Then, another lift
is spread and compacted. This alternating process continues until the correct grade
line is achieved.

On this type of project, compactor maneuverability and speed are important because
the hauling and spreading equipment sits idle during the compaction phase. If it is
possible to break up the job into adjacent fills, the hauling and spreading equipment
can be kept working.

Progressive Method:

The progressive method is often employed on large jobs, especially in highway

construction or in landfills. Here, there is continuous operation of the equipment as
material is spread progressively in front of the compactor(s). This goes on for some
distance before additional lifts are spread. Therefore, it is necessary for the
compactor production rate to match the production rates of the other units.

Machine maneuverability is not as important because the passes tend to be long

and straight. But, it is important for the compactor to be very reliable so continuous
operation is possible. Also, ease of operation and operator comfort are desirable
features due to long periods of operation.

 
Embankment Applications

An embankment is any fill whose top is higher than the adjoining surface. It could be
a building site or a highway. In any job, the embankment is above the original
ground.

Rock Fill: Rock is increasingly used as embankment fill in highway construction. It is

also used to a greater extent in dam, airport, building and harbor embankment
construction. Shot rock often contains so many fines that considerable settling will
occur if the fill is not compacted.

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Rock fill is usually spread in 18" to 48" (457 to 1219 mm) lifts. How the material is
spread before compaction is vital. Tractor spreading in layers creates a uniform fill
because the dozer blade does dome reorienting of the rocks and the tracks perform
some compaction. Therefore, a relatively dense and even surface is prepared for the
compactor.

Heavy compaction forces are needed after spreading to relocate huge stones for
density and stability. The largest smooth drum vibratory compactors are selected for
this job. Even so, compactors are subject to great stresses on rock fill. The drum
should be constructed of thick, high-grade steel. If there is a crushing effect on the
surface material, the number of passes may have to be reduced. Or, if the machine
is equipped with more than one amplitude, lower amplitude can be used to reduce
surface material distortion.

Sand and Gravel:

Vibratory compaction with smooth drum machines is especially suitable and

economical on sand and gravel. High densities can be achieved in few passes with
the lift thickness determined by the size of the compactor.

Free-draining sand and gravel that contains less than 10% fines are easily
compacted, especially when water saturated. When high density is required and the
lifts are thick, water should be added. This water will drain out of the lift during the
compaction process.

If the sand and gravel contains more than 10% fines, the soil is no longer free
draining and may become elastic when the water content is high. For this type of
soil, there will be an optimum moisture content at which maximum density can be
reached. Drying of the wet soil may be necessary to reach the optimum moisture
content.

On poorly graded sand and gravel, it is difficult to achieve high density close to the
surface of the fill. There is low shear strength in poorly graded soils and the top layer
tends to rise up behind the drum. This is not a problem when multiple lifts are being
compacted. The previous top layer will be compacted when the next layer is rolled.
However, the difficulty of compacting the surface should be kept in mind when
testing for density.

Silt:

Silts are non-plastic fines that are usually compacted with smooth drum vibratory
rollers. They can be spread and rolled in thick lifts.

Like all fine-grained soils, their compactability is dependent on moisture. For best
compaction results, the water content should not vary much from the optimum
moisture content. If too much water is present, silts rapidly approach the fluid state
and compaction is impossible. This means that the lifts may have to be aerated with
discs, mixed with drier soil (an expensive procedure) or the borrow pit has to be
better drained.

Silty soils that also contain clay may have considerable cohesion. On these soils,
padded drum, tamping foot or pneumatic rollers will give the best results.

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Clay:

Clays have plastic properties that mean that the compaction characteristics are
highly dependent on moisture content. When the water content is low, clay becomes
hard and firm. Above the optimum moisture content, clay becomes more and more
plastic and difficult to compact.

The main problem in clay compaction is very often the need to adjust the water
content. The addition of water by using water trucks, discs or soil stabilizers is time-
consuming. Water infiltration into the borrow pit may be a better alternative. Drying
wet clay can be done only in warm and dry conditions, even using discs and soil
stabilizers. Prolonged rolling with sheepsfoot rollers is sometimes done to lower the
moisture content.

Even at the optimum moisture content, clay requires a higher compactive effort and
a lower lift thickness compared to non-cohesive soils. Padded drum rollers work
best because as the pads penetrate the soil, they break the natural cohesive bonds
between the particles. Pneumatic tire compactors can be used on clays with a low to
medium Plasticity Index.

On projects where high production is a requirement and clay is used as fill, good
results can be obtained by using tamping foot compactors in conjunction with
vibratory padded drum compactors. Tamping foot compactors equipped with dozer
blades are efficient at spreading the fill and breaking large, hard lumps of clay often
found in clay borrow material. These machines perform the first passes. Final
density is reached by vibratory padded drum compactors.

Base and Sub-base Applications

Bases and sub-bases are the layers constructed on top of an embankment on
natural ground surface. They increase in strength as they near the finished surface.
The materials used in these layers depend on the type of loads the road or building
must support.

Usually very tight specifications are given for base and sub-base materials, for the
thickness of the lift and for the required density.

 
Native Soils:

From an economic standpoint it is preferable to use locally available soils. If these

soils are suitable, they may be used without chemical treatment or additives. Proper
compaction of these soils will substantially increase their load-bearing capacity and
control other factors such as permeability, capillary action and shrink and swell.

The choice of compaction equipment will depend on the type of soil. Generally,
granular, non-cohesive soils are specified as base and sub-base material. Smooth
drum or pneumatic tire compactors are more often used in this application.

Treated Soils:

Mixing chemicals with native or imported soils can substantially improve the soil’s

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Caterpillar Compaction Manual

stability and load-bearing characteristics. This is called soil stabilization.

After lime, cement, salt or asphaltic cement has been mixed into the soil; the soil
should be compacted. The type of compactor used will depend on the soil’s original,
untreated characteristics. Where a large volume of cohesive soil is involved, a
tamping foot roller may be more economical than a vibratory compactor. Smaller
volumes may be compacted with a pneumatic roller.

Crushed Rock:

Job specifications may call for well-graded crushed rock to be used as base and
sub-base materials. By using crushed material, gradation can be controlled during
the crushing process to match specifications. Crushed rock is generally easier to
spread and compact than fine soils and the compaction results are more predictable.
However, the expense of crushing and the often longer hauls to the project site
offset these advantages.

Crushed rock is usually hauled to the job in end dump trailers and dumped on the
grade in front of a motor grader or spreading machine. The base material is then
spread and shaped in lifts ranging from 6" to 10" (152 mm to 254 mm). After
spreading, compaction is accomplished by smooth drum rollers (static or vibratory)
or pneumatic tire compactors.

 
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