RIC (Rapid Impact Compaction)

Since the BSP rapid impact compactor (RIC) attachment was first developed for military use almost 25 years ago the concept has become a commercial success and the preferred method for an increasing number of shallow ground improvement projects around the world.
It was recognised early on that the RIC technique, due to its faster blow-rate than Dynamic Compaction (DC), was able to efficiently compact ground to deeper levels than would be expected by just comparing the relative energies of the two methods. In some ideal ground conditions good improvement has been achieved as deep as 10m.
The latest generation Mk3 models in the RIC range are available with drop weights of 7t, 9t, 12t and, more recently, a 16t version has been introduced. Treatment is effective in top layers typically down to 6m depth. The latest MK3 model, complete with a 9t drop weight, is fitted with a new sound attenuation pack which has been designed by BSP to significantly reduce the noise level produced by the compactor when in operation.
The RIC attachment currently being manufactured by BSP is mountable on a regular hydraulic crawler excavator in the 30t to 65t operating weight category. During controlled impact the RIC’s 1.5m diameter foot stays in contact with the ground, ensuring efficient impact energy transfer to the ground at all times. Energy is imparted by dropping the weight through a relatively small height of up to 1.2m at a rate of between 40 to 60 blows per minute.
- SPEED - The unit is mounted on standard excavators, typically in the 40-90 tonne class and can be mobilised in minutes from arrival on site.
- CONTROL - The machine is accurately controlled from the excavator cab and the degree of compaction electronically monitored.
- SAFETY - The impact foot is in contact with the ground at all times and eliminates the risk of flying debris. Unlike conventional DC, other activities can take place in close proximity.
- QUALITY - The impact energy and soil deflection are recorded by the on-board computer for presentation of compaction data to site managers. The data can highlight weak zones where extra fill is required or zones where underground obstructions were present (i.e. previously hidden old foundations).

Performance Data | Impact Energy | Operating Pressure | Hydraulic Flow | Typical Excavator Models |
---|---|---|---|---|
Model | kNm | Bar | L/min | List is not exclusive; other models in the same weight class have been used and are also suitable. |
RIC 7000 | 83 | 240 | 220-250 | CAT330/336, Komatsu PC360, Kobelco SK330/350 |
RIC 9000 | 106 | 270 | 220-250 | CAT345/349, Komatsu PC490, Kobelco SK480/500, Hyundai R520 |
RIC 12000 | 180 | 250 | 280-420 | CAT365/374, Komatsu PC700 |
RIC 16000 | 240 | 280 | 380-420 | CAT385/390, Hyundai R800, Komatsu PC800 |
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