The Ultimate Road Roller Size Chart and Spec Guide

While they're not commonly used across all types of construction like soil compactors, road rollers are explicitly used for road projects. Also widely called tandem rollers and asphalt rollers, these machines are great for all types of asphalt compaction jobs including roads, sidewalks, parking lots, airports, and more, and can be rented on DOZR.

Goto HBXG to know more.

Ride-on asphalt rollers have several standard drum width sizes ranging between 32" and 84". Pull-along rollers have drum widths between 14" and 32" for smaller jobs, but this spec guide will focus only on the ride-on models. North America's top road roller brands include Ammann, BOMAG, Caterpillar, Dynapc, HAMM, Sakai, Volvo, Wacker Neuson, and XCMG. Click each of the brands below to go to their respective spec guides.

1. Ammann

2. BOMAG

3. CAT (Caterpillar)

4. Dynapac

5. HAMM (a John Deere company)

6. Sakai

7. Volvo

8. Wacker Neuson

9. XCMG

The Two Main Types of Road Rollers

Before we get into the specs and sizes for each brand, it's important to know the difference between the two types of road rollers. There are also single-drum rollers and compactors but those are used for aggregates and soils and should be avoided when working on asphalt.

Tandem Rollers

The first type of road rollers are tandem rollers, also called double-drum rollers, which are used to compact and level surfaces like roads, cycle paths, roadways, and parking lots. They have two large steel drums on the front and back of the machine that work together to compact the surface.

When operating, the drums provide vibration to the ground that helps compress and compact the materials. The level of force changes depending on the size of the roller and increases as the machines and their weight get bigger and heavier.

The double drum design allows for more compaction to get done in fewer passes, thus increasing efficiency and productivity. Newer tandem rollers may have modern features like water systems to decrease the likelihood of asphalt sticking, better vibration systems for better compaction, and more.

Pneumatic Rollers

Pneumatic rollers, unlike tandem rollers, do not have any steel drums. Instead, they use pneumatic tires to compact the asphalt. Pneumatic rollers are heavier and typically designed for wider projects, as seen in the spec charts below.

Designed with specific patterns to increase productivity and efficiency, the compaction level of pneumatic rollers changes depending on how much air is in the tires. The tread pattern of the tires is also designed to provide even compaction. One of the use cases of using pneumatic rollers over tandem rollers is that the cushioned tires decrease the chances of cracking or deformation of the asphalt.

Road Roller Models, Specs, and Sizes for Every Brand

Now that we've covered the difference between the two roller types, we've compiled a list of all the road roller brands and their current models. The specs we've highlighted in these charts are the drum width, operating weight, and type of roller.

Width is important because it gives an understanding of the size of the machine and what jobs it can be used on. Operating weight is a good spec to know because it gives an idea of the compaction force of the machine. And lastly, we highlight whether the roller is pneumatic or tandem.

Ammann

Founded in , Ammann has been manufacturing construction equipment for more than 150 years. Starting with agricultural equipment, now they're one of the leading brands in compaction equipment.

Ammann currently manufactures more than 20 tandem rollers with drum widths ranging from 32" to 84". The weights of their machines also range from 3,000 lbs to just over 30,000 lbs. They have one pneumatic roller, the ART 240, and one electric tandem roller, the eARX 26-2.

The model names change slightly depending on the use case of the machine. The ARX and AVX rollers are vibratory rollers and articulated tandem rollers while the ARPs are the rigid tandem rollers.

Ammann Road Roller Specs

BOMAG

Founded in Germany in , BOMAG is a Fayat group company and one of the most respected compaction equipment manufacturers. They manufactured their first vibratory roller in the s and have one of the most expansive product lines in the industry.

BOMAG road rollers range in size from 3,500 lbs to 32,000 lbs and drum widths from 35" to 84". They have 20 tandem rollers that they classify as lightweight, 17 heavy, and two with pneumatic tires. They also have two electric models, the BW 100 AD E-5 and the BW 120 AD E-5.

BOMAG Road Roller Specs

CASE

CASE was founded in Wisconsin in and started out designing machines for farmers. They have since expanded their product line to include several sizes of road rollers.

Overall they have 11 tandem rollers and one pneumatic roller, the PT240D. These products range in size from 39" drum widths to 78" and operating weights from 4,600 lbs to 23,000 lbs. The newly designed E-series double drum rollers from CASE have new operating interfaces and better seats.

CASE Road Roller Specs

CAT (Caterpillar)

Easily one of the most popular construction equipment brands, Caterpillar also started by creating machines for farmers. Since then, they've added more and more machines to their portfolio including rollers and compacting equipment. Today, Caterpillar has 19 current asphalt rollers and three pneumatic rollers.

Their double-drum rollers range in size from 3,500 lbs to 32,000 lbs while their pneumatic rollers weigh 11,000 to 33,000 lbs. As for the drum width, it ranges from 35" to 84" on the tandem rollers and 68" to 84" on the pneumatic rollers.

CAT Road Roller Specs

Dynapac

Dynapac is a Swedish company that was founded in Sweden in the s. As of the s, they've been one of the leading asphalt and paving equipment manufacturers in the world. Like BOMAG, they are another Fayat Group company. Today, they have 21 road roller models on the market in North America.

Want more information on Hbxg Sd6k Bulldozer? Feel free to contact us.

These products include their small asphalt rollers, the CC VI to the CCC VI, large asphalt rollers, the CC VI to the CC VI, and their pneumatic roller line, the CP to the CP. The small rollers have drum widths ranging from 42" to 54", the large rollers have widths from 66" to 84", and the pneumatic rollers have widths from 69" to 91". The weights of these size classes are up to 9,500 lbs, 27,300 lbs, and 28,000 lbs, respectively.

Dynapac Road Roller Specs

As for the naming of the equipment, the "VV" means they come equipped with two vibrating rollers, the "VO" models have vibration and oscillating drums, the "VT" models have a roller drum on the front and a set of wheels on the back, and "OT" models have oscillation on the front drum and wheels on the back. There are also the "VV-S", "VO-S", and "VT-S", which refers to the machine having split vibration. These different features are the main reason why there are so many different HAMM road roller models.

They also have three pneumatic rollers ranging in compaction width from 68" to 72". As for weight, it ranges from 13,000 lbs to 21,000 lbs.

HAMM Road Roller Specs

Volvo

Similar to Caterpillar, Volvo manufactures a wide range of construction equipment, with some of those machines including asphalt compactors and road rollers. Currently, they have 14 asphalt compactors that they're manufacturing including 12 tandem models and two pneumatic options. Similar to other companies listed above, their asphalt rollers range in drum widths from 35" to 84" and in weight from 3,300 lbs to 52,910 lbs.

The "DD" in the model names refer to them being double-drum rollers. The "CR" means that they are combination rollers with a drum on the front and tires on the back. And lastly, the "B" and "C" at the end refer to the size with "B" representing more petite, more compact models and the "C" referring to larger models.

Volvo Road Roller Specs

XCMG

With an 80-year history, XCMG is one of the largest global construction equipment manufacturers in the world. However, it wasn't until the s that they started to develop road rollers and compaction equipment on a larger scale. Now they have eight road roller models in the North American markets.

While they may not have the variety of options that other brands on this list have, they do cover the typical drum width range with models available from 39" to 54". What they do lack is the operating weight range with models only between 5,800 lbs and 9,500 lbs, outside of their one pneumatic model, the XP165U which has an operating weight of 35,272 lbs.

XCMG does have combi-units like the XD120VT, XD130VT, and XD140VT which have drums on the front and tires on the back.

XCMG Road Roller Specs

When it comes to road construction and maintenance, few pieces of equipment are as essential as the road roller. These heavy machines play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and durable surfaces for highways, parking lots, and other paved areas. 

If you’re considering investing in a road roller for your construction business, it’s essential to understand what they are, who uses them, the associated costs, top brands to consider, and how to secure financing. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into all these aspects to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Road Roller?

A road roller, also known as a roller-compactor or steamroller, is a heavy construction machine used to compact soil, gravel, asphalt, or concrete in the construction of roads and foundations. 

These machines feature a large roller drum, typically made of steel, which applies pressure to the surface material to compress it and remove air voids, resulting in a smoother and more durable finish.

Who Uses Road Rollers?

Road rollers are indispensable equipment for various industries involved in road construction and maintenance. Construction companies, municipal governments, landscaping firms, and contractors rely on road rollers to ensure the quality and longevity of paved surfaces. Whether it’s a small-scale repair project or a large-scale highway construction endeavor, road rollers play a vital role in achieving optimal results.

Single Drum vs. Double Drum Rollers

Single drum and double drum rollers are two common types of road rollers, each with its own set of advantages and applications:

Single Drum Rollers

• Design: Single drum rollers have one large drum at the front or rear, which applies pressure to the surface material.
• Versatility: They are versatile and suitable for compacting soil, gravel, and asphalt.
• Maneuverability: Single drum rollers are often more maneuverable than double drum rollers, making them ideal for smaller or confined spaces.
• Compaction Depth: They typically offer greater compaction depth, making them suitable for achieving higher levels of compaction in fewer passes.
• Stability: Single drum rollers may provide better stability on uneven terrain due to their larger drum size and extra weight distribution.

Double Drum Rollers

• Design: Double drum rollers feature two rollers, one at the front and one at the rear, which work together to compact the surface material.
• Efficiency: They can compact material more efficiently than single drum rollers since both drums exert pressure simultaneously.
• Surface Finish: Double drum rollers are often preferred for finishing surfaces, such as asphalt paving, as they provide a smoother and more uniform finish.
• Compaction Speed: They can achieve higher compaction speeds, making them suitable for large-scale construction projects with tight deadlines.
• Versatility: While not as versatile as single drum rollers in terms of maneuverability, double drum rollers are still suitable for a wide range of compaction tasks.

Ultimately, the choice between a single drum and double drum roller depends on factors such as the specific requirements of the project, the type of material being compacted, and the available budget. Contractors and construction professionals should assess these factors carefully to determine which type of roller best suits their needs and maximizes efficiency on the job site.

Average Costs of Road Rollers

The cost of purchasing a road roller can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of roller, its size, features, and brand. Generally, smaller compactors designed for light-duty tasks are more affordable, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $50,000. On the other hand, larger, heavy-duty rollers capable of handling extensive road construction projects can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000 or more.

Road Roller Price Factors

When it comes to road roller prices, several key factors influence what you’ll pay:

• Type: Vibratory rollers are versatile, while static rollers are suitable for finishing surfaces.
• Size and Weight: Larger, heavier rollers cost more due to increased capacity and efficiency.
• Compaction Capacity: Rollers with higher compaction capacities are pricier but suitable for larger projects.
• Single Drum Rollers vs. Double Drum Rollers: The choice between a single or double drum roller may also affect the price you’ll pay. 
• Features: Advanced technology like automated controls and GPS systems can raise the price.
• Brand Reputation: Trusted brands may charge more for quality assurance.
• New vs. Used: New rollers offer the latest features but come at a higher cost, while used rollers are more budget-friendly.
• Additional Costs: Consider transportation, setup, maintenance, and warranty expenses.
• Market Conditions: Fluctuations in supply, demand, and economic factors can affect pricing.

Understanding these factors helps you make informed decisions that align with your budget and project needs, ensuring you get the best value for your investment in a road roller.

Top Brands in the Industry

When it comes to investing in a road roller, choosing a reputable brand is essential to ensure quality, reliability, and longevity. Several brands have established themselves as leaders in the road construction equipment industry:

Caterpillar

Caterpillar, also known as CAT, is a globally renowned manufacturer of construction machinery, including road rollers. Their machines are known for their durability, performance, and advanced features.

Volvo

Volvo Construction Equipment is another prominent player in the road roller market, offering a range of compactors tailored to various applications and customer needs.

Dynapac

Dynapac specializes in compacting and paving equipment, including vibratory soil compactors and asphalt rollers. Their machines are known for their efficiency and ease of operation.

Hamm

Hamm, a subsidiary of the Wirtgen Group, manufactures a wide range of road rollers renowned for their innovative design, reliability, and performance.

Bomag

Bomag is a leading manufacturer of compaction equipment, offering a comprehensive lineup of vibratory rollers, asphalt pavers, and soil stabilizers trusted by professionals worldwide.

Securing Equipment Financing with Charter Capital

Investing in a road roller represents a significant financial commitment for many businesses. Fortunately, companies like Charter Capital specialize in providing equipment financing solutions tailored to the needs of construction firms and contractors. Whether you’re looking to purchase a new or used road roller, equipment financing can help you spread the cost over manageable monthly payments while preserving your working capital for other business needs.

Charter Capital offers flexible financing options with competitive rates and terms, making it easier for businesses to acquire the equipment they need to grow and succeed. With their expertise and industry knowledge, Charter Capital can assist you throughout the financing process, from application to approval, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Finance a Road Roller with Charter Capital

A road roller is a crucial investment for companies involved in road construction and maintenance, offering the ability to achieve smooth and durable surfaces efficiently. By understanding the average costs, top brands, and financing options available, savvy buyers can make informed decisions that align with their business objectives and budgetary constraints. 

Whether you’re a small contractor or a large construction firm, investing in a quality road roller can enhance your capabilities, productivity, and profitability in the long run. With the right equipment and financing partner like Charter Capital, you can pave the way to success in the competitive construction industry.