New tandem rollers from Hamm combine vibration and oscillation in one drum

The tandem rollers of the HD+ series have been a firm fixture in the product range of roller manufacturer Hamm for many years. Back in the summer of 2023, new models were launched spanning all weight classes, all featuring the relevant interfaces for digital applications. Plus, the Easy Drive operating concept was also introduced to machines with operating weights of 15,432 lb and 17,636 lb (7 t and 8 t). In the shape of the HD+ 120i V-VIO and the HD+ 120i VIO-2 HF, Hamm is adding two further models capable of compacting with a choice of vibration or oscillation. Both machines are available in North America from the start of 2024.

While the HD+ 120i V-VIO 12 t tandem roller features a vibrating roller drum (50 Hz or 3000 vpm) at the front and a VIO drum at the rear, the HD+ 120i VIO-2 HF provides additional application options with two VIO drums. For construction site applications, an automatic control feature on the HD+ 120i VIO-2 HF ensures that the front drum (in relation to the direction of travel) is always working in vibration mode, while oscillation or static compaction is used on the rear drum in order to achieve the best possible results. When it comes to compaction force, the new models offer the usual high performance that operators have come to expect from the brand. Specially for the north American market, the HD+ 120i VIO-2 HF has also been designed as a high-frequency machine (HF), offering a vibration frequency of 67 Hz or 4020 vpm (front and rear). Both models are powered by a 154 HP (115 kW) Deutz engine.

High flexibility, fast compaction

A major benefit to users is the versatility of both machines, thanks to static compaction, oscillation and vibration. Particularly beneficial is the ability to switch between vibration and oscillation or, in the case of the HD+ 120i VIO-2 HF, to combine two vibration and oscillation drums together, removing the need to switch machines or deploy an additional machine and another operator on the construction site. This multifunctionality also pays off in terms of the many new types of asphalt mixture. All in all, the HD+ 120i VIO-2 HF offers nine different combinations when selecting the compaction method. As with earthworks, the combination of vibration and oscillation delivers fast compaction in fewer double passes, making it particularly well suited to final compaction. A high compaction quality is still guaranteed even at increased working speeds.

Well-known strengths and variety of options

As well as the new combination of drums, the two tandem rollers give users all the usual benefits and strengths they expect of the brand. These include the spacious and clear-view driver's cab, the well-established Easy Drive operating concept and various interfaces to connect telematics systems, fleet management systems and digital applications for controlling and documenting compaction.

Compaction with oscillation

Operators can also make full use of the well-established benefits of oscillation and apply these to the compaction of joints or compaction in vibration-sensitive areas. Oscillation also facilitates deployment at low outside temperatures, since a larger temperature range can be used. Plus, the system is effective in preventing particle crushing and over-compaction. Not to be forgotten are the benefits of oscillation when compacting distortion-sensitive materials. Further general benefits of oscillation are that it reduces the noise emissions and vibrations experienced on and around the construction site.

Maintenance-free oscillation

Another benefit: Like the other oscillation drums from Hamm, the new VIO drums require no maintenance, thanks to the wear-resistant steel and temperature-resistant special belt.