At what speed should pneumatic tired rollers operate at their maximum speed?

Pneumatic tired rollers are designed to achieve optimal compaction efficiency at a certain speed, which is generally around 5 mph. This speed allows for effective compaction of asphalt and other materials without causing damage or excessive displacement. Operating at this speed balances the need for adequate contact time to achieve compaction while preventing the roller from moving too quickly, which can lead to insufficient compaction and potential surface flaws.

By maintaining an optimal speed of 5 mph, operators can ensure that the pneumatic rollers provide the necessary pressure and kneading action to effectively compact the materials, resulting in a smooth and stable surface. This speed also helps in managing the heat of the material being compacted, which is crucial when working with asphalt, as excessive speed might cool the material too quickly or fail to provide adequate compaction.

Choosing a speed higher or lower than this optimal range can diminish the effectiveness of the rolling process, either by not applying enough force to compact the material properly or by compromising the quality of compacted layers. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the ideal speed at which pneumatic tired rollers should operate to achieve the best results in roadway construction and maintenance.