Breaking Down Dynapac’s SEISMIC Asphalt System

Proper asphalt compaction has long been known as the Holy Grail for a quality and long-lasting roadway and roller manufactures have been working hard to help. From redesigning equipment to adding smarter compaction methods and pass-mapping, machines have come a long way in helping contractors meet their bonus incentives.

Sometimes though, smarter machines do not always equal easier operation and construction crews have had to choose between using an advanced machine that confuses operators or sticking with the tried and true rollers operators love. 

Dynapac has been working on equipment technology where both things can be true; Operators can be comfortable with their roller knowledge and operation, and highly-efficient compaction can also take place. 

Dynapac’s SEISMIC Asphalt technology is designed to further optimize compaction efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and enhance operator comfort by automatically controlling the vibration frequency of the roller. 

SEISMIC Stands for Quality: 

S = Simple.
E = Effective. 
I = Intelligent.
S = Savings.
M = Maintenance.
I = Innovation. 
C = Change of Perception. 

The seismic technology allows operators to achieve consistent density across the mat, even close to the edges, which can be challenging for contractors. 

This innovative - yet easy to use - technology automatically determines the optimum compaction frequency on an ongoing basis. By using SEISMIC Asphalt in combination with Eco Mode, fuel savings of up to 25% per year can be achieved. And where fuel is saved, emissions are reduced. Here too, depending on the application, up to 25 % is possible, which means over 10,000 lbs of CO2 per year. 

How Does it Work?

SEISMIC Asphalt technology automatically detects the natural resonance frequency of the asphalt, works together with it, and applies the correct amount of energy exactly when required. While conventional vibratory compactors deliver a rapid succession of impacts to the soil surface at a frequency that is either pre-set at a high or low amplitude or at a frequency that is adjusted manually, Dynapac SEISMIC Asphalt does it differently. 

Since the drum and the asphalt act as one dynamic system, several benefits can be found from the system’s natural frequency. At the natural frequency, the drum amplitude is enhanced significantly, since energy is automatically fed to the system at exactly the right time. This, in turn, maximizes the contact force between the drum and the ground, yielding maximized compaction and energy efficiency. Optimal compaction results are achieved with a few sensors on the machine and a computer inside that uses an algorithm that automatically adjusts the frequency based on current readings from the machine. 

Watch: Superior Paving Sees Great Results with SEISMIC Asphalt

“There’s a natural resonance to the surface of every asphalt mat you’re compacting,” Eric Booth said. “SEISMIC Asphalt technology matches that frequency with the drum to achieve a more optimal compaction. On a traditional double drum roller, you’d turn the drum to a low amplitude with a high vibration which will have the roller moving along the asphalt and hitting it hard. What we’re doing is reading what that natural frequency is and having the machine adapt accordingly. This slows down the vibration on the machine which decreases noise and increases operator comfort all while achieving the best results possible.”

By reading the pavement with sensors inside the drum, the SEISMIC Asphalt technology also prevents the chances of over-compacting the asphalt which ensures longer pavement life and a smoother end result. 

SEISMIC Asphalt is now available in models CC2200-6200VI as a standard feature.