How to Use a Compact Roller

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How to Use a Compact Roller Video Transcript

How to Safely Operate the Double Steel Drum Roller

In this video tutorial, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and effectively operate a double steel drum roller. This includes understanding essential safety procedures, handling controls, and ensuring your equipment functions as intended.

Safety First: Call 811 Before Digging

If you’re planning to dig, excavate, or move earth deeper than 16 inches, Texas law requires that you call 811 to mark underground utilities before starting. At Rocky Hill Equipment Rental, we recommend contacting 811 for all digging projects, no matter the depth, to ensure maximum safety.

Getting to Know Your Roller’s Controls

The double steel drum roller is equipped with eight labeled buttons on the right side of the screen:

  • Button #1 engages the vibration feature.
  • Button #5 activates the water sprayers.
  • Button #6 controls the water flow, with three levels of adjustment.
  • Button #7 activates the safety horn.

The machine’s movement is controlled by handles next to the operator seat, which allow you to maneuver forward or backward. Each handle has two buttons underneath that control the vibration of the steel drum independently. Pressing both buttons activates both the front and rear vibrations.

Additional Control Features

Key controls are located around the operator area:

  • RPM Throttle: Located to the left of the screen, allowing you to adjust engine speed.
  • Parking Brake: Positioned near the screen; it must be engaged to start the machine.
  • Emergency Stop: This button is just under the steering wheel for immediate shutoff.
  • Water Tank: Positioned on the right of the operator seat and can be refilled as needed.

Before beginning, inspect the machine for damages or missing parts, ensure all handles are in neutral, and engage the parking brake.

Starting and Operating the Roller

After starting the roller, disengage the parking brake and push the handle forward or reverse to move. Adjust the throttle by pushing down to rev up or pushing up to rev down. To engage vibration, press Button #1 and the buttons underneath the drive handles, with options to control the front or rear drum vibration independently or together.

For water sprayers, press Button #5 as needed for proper drum lubrication.

Important Safety Tips for Operating the Roller

Always wear your seat belt to reduce injury risk in case of an accident. Be mindful of terrain, overhead hazards, and other workers near your work path. Although compacting can feel slow, stay focused to prevent accidents.

Equipment Care and Key Storage

If renting equipment for multiple days, store the keys securely on-site. When returning the roller, ensure it is clean and refueled.

For any questions or concerns about the roller, please contact us at 210-651-5611—Rocky Hill Equipment Rental is here to help.