Wolcott Construction Inc., a family-owned paving firm in Gilmanton, NH, has discovered that consistency pays.

Jim Hurst, the company’s vice-president, stresses that Wolcott’s livelihood depends on its ability to achieve a consistent, quality mat.

“Most of our work is on interstates using Superpave and QC/QA specifications,” Hurst said. “The New Hampshire DOT either rewards or penalizes contractors depending on the final smoothness and density of the paving. There are minimum specifications to meet or a penalty is invoked. If paving quality exceeds the specs, additional money is paid to the contractor. For us to be profitable, we must adhere to the DOT’s minimum compaction and smoothness specifications.”

Recently, Wolcott had to replace its mainline vibratory roller. Hurst focused his search on a compactor that would provide the consistent results the company depends on.

Wolcott purchased a Hypac C766C double-drum vibratory compactor from Nations Rent in Candia, NH, in early 1999.

The Hypac C766C features 168-centimeter (66 in.) wide drums, dual hydrostatic drive, high centrifugal force and a water-saver system. Operator visibility and comfort is enhanced with dual center-facing seats and radial pneumatic drum isolators that minimize vibration by providing a cushion of air between the drum and frame.

The C766C is also equipped with Hypac’s Multi-System Performance Indicator (MSPI), which allows operators to input maximum working speed and automatic vibration start/stop, as well as front and rear drum vibration frequency and amplitude.

The MSPI features a platform-mounted display that informs operators of working/travel speed, front and rear drum vibration frequency, impacts per foot, auto vibration speed setting and working speed limit.

“It was the MSPI that sold me on the Hypac C766C,” Hurst explained. “I like the control the MSPI gives me. It’s much easier for me to control what the roller does without running the roller myself. I can set the amplitude. I can set the speed. I know exactly what I want. It’s operator foolproof. The machine knows if the operator is doing something wrong and doesn’t let it happen.”

“The MSPI has definitely put an ease of mind on me,” he continued. “I don’t have to worry about getting the compaction that I need. I’m not worried about over- or under-compacting. Consistency pays and that machine is a very consistent machine.”

Today's top stories

Fed Funding to Increase U.S. Battery Production

Teichert Tackles Tough Job Through Teamwork

Maze of Policy Changes May Complicate IIJA Implementation

AECON Installs 50-Ton Girders for New Washington Bridge

VIDEO: Tsurumi Pump Celebrates 100 Years

SPS New England, Select Demo Lead Boston Bridge Project

Alex Lyon Holds Annual Barbecue, Hay Camp, Auction

Kevin Chodkowski Joins Baschmann Services as Sales Representative