What is the function of a sheepsfoot roller in soil compaction?

The function of a sheepsfoot roller in soil compaction is primarily to provide high compaction in cohesive soils. This type of roller is designed with cylindrical feet that exert pressure directly onto the soil surface. The weight of the roller, combined with these rounded feet, creates a kneading effect that is particularly effective in compacting clay and other cohesive materials.

Cohesive soils, which tend to hold together due to their particle size and plasticity, require a specific type of compaction approach. The sheepsfoot roller's design allows it to penetrate the soil surface and consolidate it effectively, which is essential for achieving the desired density and stability required for various construction activities.

Other options, such as transporting soil or mixing it with water, describe functions not associated with the sheepsfoot roller. While sheepsfoot rollers are instrumental in achieving optimal compaction, their primary purpose is to densify cohesive soils, making them suitable for foundational work, roadways, and other structures where soil stability is critical.