Vibratory rollers generally operate at a fixed vibration frequency. It is hypothesized that the compaction of soil could be made more efficient if the frequency could be adapted to specific project conditions. In order to study the applicability to surface compaction, the frequency dependence of compacting dry sand with a vertically vibrating plate was investigated experimentally in 85 small-scale tests. Tests were performed in a test box simulating the free-field condition and with concrete underlying the sand bed. The results show that there is a distinct frequency dependence, implying a significantly improved compaction effect close to the compactor soil resonant frequency. It is suggested that particle velocity is the governing amplitude parameter for vibratory soil compaction, rather than displacement or acceleration. As the soil is compacted, it is also displaced, resulting in surface heave. A larger vibration amplitude implies greater displacement relative to the compacted volume. It was also observed that the compaction and strain-dependent reduction of soil stiffness are closely related.

The influence of vibration frequency was studied in 110 small-scale compaction tests conducted using a vertically oscillating plate. The underlying soil was dry sand, or sand close to the optimum water content. The results showed that there is a resonant amplification, providing a slightly higher degree of compaction. Frequency has a major influence on soil compaction. An iterative method for calculating the dynamic response of the plate, incorporating strain-dependent properties of the soil, is also presented. The calculated frequency response agrees fairly well with measured quantities.

A method for calculating the dynamic response of a vertically oscillating foundation on soil with strain-dependent properties is developed. Strain-dependent stiffness and damping are incorporated by an iterative procedure, presenting the response in frequency domain. The calculated dynamic displacement amplitudes are compared to small-scale tests using a vertically oscillating plate. The calculated dynamic quantities agree well with measured amplitudes over a wide frequency range.

Full-scale tests were conducted to study the influence of the operating frequency of a vibratory roller on the compaction of crushed gravel in a controlled environment. Tests were performed at both fixed and variable frequencies. The average densification of the soil was represented by settlement of the ground surface, and depth-dependent density variation before and after compaction was determined by horizontal nuclear density gauge measurements. The resonant frequency was approximately 17 Hz and frequencies in the range 15–35 Hz were tested. The optimum compaction frequency was determined to be around 18 Hz; that is, slightly above resonance, as compared with the standard operating frequency of the roller, 31 Hz. Lower compaction frequency significantly reduces the required engine power and thus fuel consumption and environmental impact, while increasing the lifespan of the roller. Furthermore, the soil closest to the ground surface is loosened at high frequency. This can be avoided with a lower compaction frequency and the need for subsequent static passes can thereby possibly be eliminated.