A world first: Smart Compact Pro integrates real-time density in automated compaction

• Hamm introduces the Smart Compact Pro, integrating real-time density measurement into automated asphalt compaction.

• The innovation is initially available for HD+ series tandem rollers meeting EU Stage V/EPA Tier 4f standards.

• Smart Compact Pro enhances road surface longevity and reduces construction and repair costs.

• The system automates compaction modes based on asphalt layer type and continuously monitors physical properties.

• Real-time density measurement ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and minimizes financial deductions.

• The technology simplifies the compaction process, enabling even inexperienced operators to achieve optimal results.

Revolutionary development for asphalt compaction

Roller manufacturer Hamm introduces the Smart Compact Pro under the motto “Measure it right. Measure it now.” For the first time, real-time density is being used as a decisive parameter for qualitative assessment, and integrated into automated compaction. Smart Compact Pro makes a significant contribution to extending the service life of road surfaces and, in the long term, reduces construction and repair costs as well as potential additional expenses for the contractor. This innovation is initially available for HD+ series tandem rollers for markets with the EU Stage V/EPA Tier 4f exhaust emission standard.

Automated compaction with Smart Compact

Despite advances in digitalisation, asphalt compaction has so far been heavily dependent on empirical data and the experience of the roller driver. Consistent double passes and the correct use of dynamic compaction were often dependent on the driver’s knowledge. Since 2022, the Smart Compact digital compaction assistant from Hamm has been simplifying the compaction process in asphalt construction by controlling the compaction modes and forces based on the selected layer type – base, binder or surface course – automatically and separately for both drums. The system continuously monitors the asphalt’s physical properties, such as temperature and rigidity, as well as its complex cooling behaviour, to ensure homogeneous compaction by applying the optimum compaction energy and modes in each case. There is even the option of incorporating local weather data.

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Smart Compact Pro with real-time density measurement: Higher quality, lower costs

Hamm is now expanding Smart Compact to incorporate an essential measured value – real-time asphalt density. Industry experts agree that it is the decisive parameter for qualitative assessment during the compaction process and will become the key indicator for rigorously meeting regulatory requirements and minimising financial deductions. 

Smart Compact Pro closes this gap by integrating the new “Realtime Density Scan” sensor into the automated compaction process. It determines the asphalt density in real time by measuring the dielectric conductivity of the asphalt mix to be compacted, therefore forming the basis for the correlation with the asphalt density or the porosity. Both parameters are crucial for self-monitoring or control testing. With the help of real-time density, Smart Compact Pro is able to provide construction companies with a decisive advantage by accurately implementing regulatory requirements.

This can significantly reduce potential financial deductions due to inadequate quality in the construction work, whilst saving costs on premature repairs. Using Smart Compact Pro also significantly reduces the costs for extracting drill cores.

In summary, the world-first integration of real-time density into automated compaction represents a significant step forward for asphalt compaction. Even inexperienced operators can achieve optimal compaction results with Smart Compact Pro, with no need for extensive prior knowledge.  This offers a significant boost for construction companies in times of an increasing shortage of skilled workers.