Discrete Element Modeling of Vibration Compaction Effect of the Vibratory Roller in Roundtrips on Gravels

Abstract This paper aims to study the vibration compaction mechanism of the vibratory roller on gravels using a two-dimensional discrete element method. The roadbed model was established by gravel particles with irregular shapes, which was closer to reality. The performance parameters of the vibratory roller, such as operating frequency and rolling velocity, were investigated to explore their influences on the operating efficiency of the vibratory roller in roundtrips. The frequencies of 15 Hz and 17 Hz were proved to be the optimal frequency and resonance frequency in the current simulations, respectively. The vibratory roller could achieve a better vibration compaction effect with less power consumption at the optimal frequency. In addition, the number of roundtrips and power consumption should be considered in the selection of the optimal rolling velocity. The movement direction and the contact force distribution of gravels were illustrated by the displacement field, velocity field, as well as the contact force chains. Our results provide a better understanding of the mechanical behavior of gravel particles and their interactions with the vibratory roller.