Caterpillar High-Production B-Series Rollers Offer Multiple Levels of Intelligence

Caterpillar' new CB64B, CB66B and CB68B high-production tandem vibratory rollers are 12- to 14-metric-ton compactors that feature wider drum widths, high-flow water spray system, increased operator comfort and enhanced technology to help operators and machines perform at higher levels. Many of the technological enhancements are offered through Cat Compaction Control.

• 142-hp Cat C4.4 ACERT Tier 4 Final engine standard Eco-mode and automatic speed control
• Features handwheel steering technology, standard 180° seating and optional 360° positioning, an LCD display and push-button controls
• Center-articulating hitch with 6° of oscillation or offset hitch option that extends coverage up to  6 in.
• 79- (CB64B) and 84-in. drums (CB66B and CB68B)
• Variety of vibratory options including dual amplitude, dual frequency, Versa Vibe and five amplitude systems
• Durable, high-capacity water spray system with dual spray bars, dual pumps, triple filtration, adjustable intermittent operation and an optional freeze protection kit

[VIDEO] Cat Incorporates Intelligent Compaction on B Series Rollers

Auto-Adjustable Compaction optimizes compaction by delivering the highest amplitude possible without de-coupling or over-compacting. "This system is cruise control for an operator," says Cat's Bryan Downing. It uses an accelerometer to measure the forces input into the asphalt layer and sublayer by the drum; it then uses these measurements to make amplitude adjustments.

The system is able to adjust through the full range of amplitudes in as little as 4 seconds for optimal performance and uniform compaction throughout the mat. "These adjustments in the amplitude enable the roller to produce the quickest compaction results," says Downing.

He adds that setup of the roller is automatic, and the technology includes both the front drum and rear drum. "The compactor goes in each direction an equal amount of time, so it’s critical to have that leading drum… have intelligence to ensure good compaction," he explains.

Pass-Count and Temperature Mapping systems provide real-time visual references of the passes made and asphalt mat temperatures present. Distractions, fatigue, multi-tasking, and nighttime operation can affect how well an operator executes the rolling pattern on an asphalt mat.

"It’s critical that operators know what they’ve done," says Downing. "Imagine being an operator in the dark of night on a black surface [trying to remember] where he or she left off. This is a critical piece to that. Mapping is a great solution for an effective rolling pattern at night."

Machine to Machine Communication helps keep rolling patterns in sync between rollers by sharing coverage and pass-count maps between the operating displays of multiple machines. By viewing the color display, operators can monitor areas of coverage and the number of passes made. If a trailing operator sees an area of missed coverage, they can easily pick it up to ensure the entire rolling pattern gets the attention that is needed. This system is particularly helpful when performing echelon compaction when multiple machines are executing a five- or seven-pass rolling pattern.

Video: Compaction Benefits of Caterpillar's Machine To Machine Communication

Compaction Meter Value (CMV) technology uses a drum-mounted accelerometer to measure and record forces of the vibrating drums. A calculation derived from the recorded forces is used to create a unit-less value, or composite stiffness value, that provides an indication of stiffness. The system is capable of utilizing RTK level accuracy to provide the highest level of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) positioning and is able to correlate compaction, frequency and pass-count data to specific location.

• 142-hp Cat C4.4 ACERT Tier 4 Final engine standard Eco-mode and automatic speed control
• Features handwheel steering technology, standard 180° seating and optional 360° positioning, an LCD display and push-button controls
• Center-articulating hitch with 6° of oscillation or offset hitch option that extends coverage up to  6 in.
• 79- (CB64B) and 84-in. drums (CB66B and CB68B)
• Variety of vibratory options including dual amplitude, dual frequency, Versa Vibe and five amplitude systems
• Durable, high-capacity water spray system with dual spray bars, dual pumps, triple filtration, adjustable intermittent operation and an optional freeze protection kit