Dynamic characteristics modelling of the tamper–asphalt mixture interaction: application to predict asphalt mat density

ABSTRACT

Recently, the study of machinery/medium interaction is becoming increasingly important in terramechanics. In order to maximise the performance of existing equipment and obtaining desired compaction density in road construction, reasonable and effective paving operations are essential. However, the operations always depend on empirical approaches. In this paper, a model based on vibration compaction theory was used to describe the deformation property of asphalt mixture, which can lay a foundation for future analysis. And then, a dynamic model of tamper/asphalt mat interaction, based on the principles of resonance, was developed to predict asphalt mat density during paving operation. The model inputs included excitation frequency, tamper stroke, paver forward speed and asphalt mixture properties parameters for different tamper or asphalt mixture. The numerical simulations are provided to demonstrate how the tamper/asphalt mat interaction model can be used to predict asphalt mixture compaction in the field of road construction engineering.

KEYWORDS:

• Tamper/ asphalt mat interaction
• dynamic model
• resonance theory
• pavement construction
• vibration compaction

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Inner Mongolia Communications science and technology projects [grant number NJ-2013-21] and Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities [grant number 2014G3252006], [grant number 310825175008].