Which compactor do I need for my soil?

How it's calculated

1. The soil sets the principle: granular → vibration; cohesive → impact; mixed → impact or vibration with kneading (per the School table); asphalt → double-drum vibratory roller.
2. In a trench only rammers, plates and trench rollers go in, and only if their published width + 10 cm of clearance fits the trench width.
3. Lifts = thickness ÷ that machine's max lift in that soil, rounded up.
4. Output (m²/h) = usable width (width − 10 % overlap) × working speed × 60 × 0.83 efficiency ÷ passes.
5. Recommended: the smallest «ideal» machine for that soil that finishes each lift in one 8 h shift; if none does, the fastest.
6. No time estimate on asphalt: thickness, temperature and passes are set by the mix specification.

Assumptions and sources

• Granular = vibration; cohesive = impact; narrow trench = rammer; 20–30 cm lifts; 3–4 passes.Source: SIMAQ guide «How to choose the right compactor for your soil type».
• Width, max lift, passes and fit of each machine per soil.Source: SIMAQ School compaction table, computed from each machine's published spec sheet (derived figures are flagged in that table).
• Working speed below the catalog maximum; 0.83 efficiency (≈ 50 productive min per hour); 10 % overlap.Source: same SIMAQ School table (standard compaction production formula).
• 10 cm total trench clearance and an 8 h shift per lift.Source: this tool's criteria to suggest a size; adjust them with your advisor.
• Role of each roller on asphalt (access roads, streets, roadway).Source: SIMAQ guide «Which roller to choose by tonnage and job».

Every result is a reference estimate. It doesn't replace a professional's design or supervision.