Abstract

This study reviews data from five roadway construction projects on which intelligent compaction (IC) techniques were used to achieve the more uniform compaction of road-building materials. Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) researchers looked at IC data collected from these projects — resulting in the production of eight analyzable data sets — to determine whether they complied with the special construction note included in contract documents. The report also compares the intelligent compaction measurement value (ICMV) collected on each project to traditional laboratory results. Researchers used Veta software to analyze geospatial data collected from IC machines during construction work. Of the data sets, three indicated the required minimum coverage pass count had been achieved, although these did not attain the required minimum coverage for ICMV. Three other data sets achieved minimum ICMV coverage, while the final two data sets did not reach minimum coverage for either metric. Regression analysis found no meaningful relationship between density and ICMV. Attention is also paid to challenges which arose during the review of IC data and feedback received from contractors about the use of IC. Contractors appreciate that IC is able to transmit real-time data to operators and provides access to the mat temperature, however they observed inconsistencies with the ICMV for mill/fill projects and on new construction. These inconsistencies are the product of several factors, including cuts, fills, soil types, and the amount of water in the roller. A special construction note with instructions for using IC on Federal-aid projects is included as well. It specifies materials and equipment requirements, contractor responsibilities, construction methods, payment, and performance measures.

Report Date

2-2019

Report Number

KTC-19-03/SPR16-523-1F

Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.13023/ktc.rr.2019.03

Notes

© 2018 University of Kentucky, Kentucky Transportation Center

Information may not be used, reproduced, or republished without KTC’s written consent.

The contents of this report reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Center, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the United States Department of Transportation, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The inclusion of manufacturer names or trade names is for identification purposes and should not be considered an endorsement.

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