Volvo Construction Equipment has made its DD105 double drum compactors and its oscillatory variant, the DD105 OSC, available to emerging market territories such as the Middle East, thanks to the integration of a Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine with both models.

According to Volvo CE, these “fuel-efficient and productive machines” are now equipped with an 86.3kW Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine that automatically adjusts output according to jobsite requirements, delivering power only when needed. Other smart features include Eco mode – which cuts fuel consumption by up to 30% without affecting performance – and an auto-idle function that reduces engine speed when the roller is stopped.

The machines also offer comfortable operator environments with their cabs fitted with ergonomically positioned controls and joystick controls for easy manoeuvrability, while an efficient climate system helps keep the operator comfortable. The rear-mounted engine combined with a curved front glass panel and padded floor contributes to low level of noise and vibrations within the cab, for a smooth and quiet ride, said Volvo.

Safety and ease of operation are enhanced by an expansive front windshield which maximises the view down to the drum and spray bars. The structural pillar supporting the roof is located at the rear of the cab, meaning the three front glass panels provide operators with an entirely unobstructed view of the road. When working close to obstacles, the fully adjustable operator station can rotate and slide to the side of the cab to easily provide a view down the edge of the asphalt – increasing safety and rolling precision.

Volvo added that the 10t compactors come fitted with a 1,680mm wide drum with a design that halves the power needed to start the vibration system, with no compromise on productivity. This reduces the operator’s exposure to machine vibration while also ensuring a smoother finished mat.

“Fitted with the flexibility of Volvo’s oscillation technology – which eliminates vertical vibrations – the DD105 OSC offers high compaction performance while producing a non-damaging oscillation movement. This transfers less stress to the surrounding surface, enabling compaction in more delicate application areas, such as bridges, over pipes and close to residential areas. Additionally, when compacting against a cold joint, the risk of damaging the cold surface is reduced, and the material can be more effectively compressed to seal and protect the surface. The oscillatory movement of the drum can also improve surface smoothness, by re-aligning the material. To account for the increased wear on the drum surface, the DD105 OSC roller has a hardened, abrasion-resistant alloy steel drum shell, which increases longevity,” said the announcement from Volvo.

Also helping operators achieve a high-mat quality in less time is Volvo’s Compact Assist. Powered by the Volvo Co-Pilot display, Compact Assist provides access to a set of work-enhancing apps – including pass mapping and temperature mapping – which provide real-time insight into the work being undertaken. With easy access to clear and detailed data, the operator can eliminate any damaging over-compaction and ensure complete coverage of the working area.

The DD105 and DD105 OSC both feature an automatic water spraying system with triple filtration that provides uniform coverage and variable flow, as well as helping prevent material pick-up. The two water pumps alternate during normal operation. In the rare event of a pump malfunctioning, a constant flow of water to the drum surface is automatically retained. The large 740-litre water tank allows for increased refill intervals, also helping to keep downtime to a minimum. Moreover, the tank’s low positioning affords the machine a low centre of gravity for high stability and can be quickly and easily refilled at ground level, Volvo said.