I. Load Control: Is the machine being operated with reduced load?
During the break-in period, the equipment should avoid full-load operation. The working load should typically be controlled within 60% to 80% of the rated value.
If the operator is observed intentionally choosing to compact lightweight materials (such as sand or gravel layers) or avoiding high-resistance conditions (such as initial compaction of thick asphalt layers), it indicates that the machine is in a load-limited break-in phase.
Conversely, if the equipment operates at full load or overload for extended periods without performance abnormalities, it has likely passed the break-in period.
II. Speed Limitation: Is speed-limited operation being implemented?
During the break-in period, the operating speed should be significantly reduced, generally recommended to be 20% to 30% lower than the normal operating speed.
Operationally, this manifests as: smooth starts, gentle acceleration and deceleration, prohibition of sharp turns and emergency braking, and the use of low to medium vibration frequencies.
Especially in the first 100 hours, if the driver consistently maintains a low speed range (e.g., ≤5 km/h) and avoids continuous long-term operation, this is a typical characteristic of break-in behavior.
III. Running Time: Has the Break-in Period Been Exceeded? The break-in period for road rollers is typically set at 80-100 hours, with some models extending to 150 hours.
New machines or equipment after major overhauls should be considered in the break-in period until the cumulative working time reaches this threshold.
The actual running time can be checked using the equipment timer or construction log. If it remains within this range, and with the aforementioned load reduction and speed limiting measures implemented, it can be confirmed that the machine is in the break-in period.
✅ Comprehensive Judgment Criteria: When the equipment simultaneously meets the three conditions of "load ≤ 80% + speed reduction 30% + cumulative running time < 100 hours," it can generally be determined that it is in the break-in period. Once this stage is completed, a mandatory maintenance (such as oil change, tightening, and inspection) is required before it can be switched to normal operating mode.
