JCB Single Drum Soil Compactors
Single drum soil compactors deliver fast, efficient compaction on roadworks, civils and earthworks sites.
JCB Soil Compactors for Sale: Power, Productivity, and Connectivity
JCB’s single drum soil compactor range is a Stage V-compliant family of machines from 5 to 13 tonnes, built to deliver the highest standards of densification on every type of fill. Scot JCB is proud to supply the full range of JCB soil compactors right across Scotland and the North of England.
Whether you’re rolling sub-base on a major roads project, finishing fill on a new housing development or working confined trenches with the compact models, there’s a JCB soil compactor built for the job. Plus, every model is backed by Scot JCB’s expert sales, parts and service support, giving you complete peace of mind when investing in your next machine.
Compact Smarter with INTELLICOMPACTION
Modern sites demand high-density proof of performance. JCB’s INTELLICOMPACTION technology provides operators with live stiffness measurements, allowing them to identify "soft spots" in real-time. By knowing exactly when target density is reached, you avoid over-compaction, reduce unnecessary fuel consumption, and protect the machine from excessive vibration wear.
Browse All Single Drum Compactors
Compact in Fewer Passes: Why Choose a JCB Soil Compactor?
JCB single drum soil compactors are built to deliver target density in fewer passes, with the connectivity and operator comfort that modern sites demand.
Some of the core benefits of the JCB soil compactor range include:
- Best-in-Class Compaction: Powerful vibration and durable drum construction for fewer passes and faster cycle times.
- Superior Gradeability: Confidently tackle embankments and stockpiles with independent hydraulic wheel drives providing up to 60% climbing capability on compact models.
- Connected Compaction: INTELLICOMPACTION live measurement and JCB LiveLink telematics across the range.
- Lower Running Costs: Cut after-treatment complexity and maintenance costs with Stage V engines requiring no DEF or AdBlue on the VM58D, VM78D, and VM118D.
- Range Versatility: Five models spanning 5 to 13 tonnes, from trench backfill to bulk earthworks.
- Operator Comfort: ROPS/FOPS cabs with air conditioning, the JCB UX 7-inch touchscreen and excellent all-round visibility.
- On-going Support: Every machine is backed by the Scot JCB depot network for parts and service.
Explore the JCB Soil Compactor Range
Scot JCB offers the complete range of quality JCB single drum soil compactors for sale. From the compact VM58D right through to the heavy-duty VM138D, we have the ideal machine for your compaction needs.
JCB VM58D & VM78D – Compact Single Drum Soil Compactors
The 5.4-tonne VM58D and 7.1-tonne VM78D are built for confined sites, trench backfill and tight urban work where the larger models can’t reach
- Weight: 5.4 tonnes (VM58D) and 7.1 tonnes (VM78D).
- Power: 55kW Stage V diesel with no DEF or SCR required.
- Centrifugal Force: 81kN on the VM58D and 138/84kN on the VM78D with dual frequency and amplitude.
- Climbing: Direct independent hydraulic wheel drives for confident climbing on gradients up to 60%.
- Connectivity: JCB LiveLink telematics with optional INTELLICOMPACTION measurement.
- Best For: Trench backfill, confined urban sites, landscaping and housing developments.
JCB VM118D – Stage V Workhorse
The VM118D is the first single drum soil compactor in its class with a 55kW engine and no DEF required, cutting after-treatment costs without compromising on compaction power.
- Weight: 11,950 – 13,500kg operating weight.
- Power: 55kW JCB DIESELMAX 430 Stage V diesel - no DEF or AdBlue required.
- Centrifugal Force: 256/146kN, with dual frequency (32/36Hz) and amplitude (1.8/0.8mm) vibration.
- Drum: 28mm shell with 10mm lateral stiffener rings for durability on tough applications.
- Technology: INTELLICOMPACTION and a 5-year JCB LiveLink subscription included as standard.
- Best For: Road construction, building foundations, railways and bulk fill projects.
JCB VM128D & VM138D – Heavy-Duty Compaction
For the most demanding large-scale fills and bulk earthworks, the 12.1-tonne VM128D and 13.2-tonne VM138D deliver industry-leading densification. These machines are engineered for maximum productivity on challenging terrain.
- Weight: 12.1 tonnes (VM128D) and 13.2 tonnes (VM138D).
- Power: 97kW JCB Stage V diesel for higher-output compaction.
- Centrifugal Force: 256kN (VM128D) and 292kN (VM138D) for fast densification on heavy material.
- Traction Modes: Four-mode system - work, travel, gradient and padfoot - with up to 55% climbing capability.
- Drum: 28mm shell on the VM128D and 32mm on the VM138D, each with 10mm stiffener rings.
- Best For: Embankment building, large fills, landfill restoration and quarry projects.
Enquire About JCB Soil Compactors with Scot JCB
Whatever the application, Scot JCB will help you specify the right JCB single drum soil compactor and arrange competitive finance through JCB Finance. With our extensive depot network across Scotland, we ensure your machine runs seamlessly with quality parts and expert service.
Complete our contact form today and a member of the Scot JCB team will be in touch to discuss your requirements.
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What is a single drum roller used for?
A single drum roller is used for deep soil compaction and ground stabilisation. It is designed to compact sub-base layers, embankments, foundations and large open areas before construction work begins. These machines are ideal for preparing the ground so it can support roads, buildings, infrastructure and heavy loads.
How does the JCB single drum soil compactor differ from a tandem (double drum) roller?
A single drum soil compactor has one large drum at the front and heavy-duty tyres at the rear. It is designed for deep compaction of soil and aggregates. A tandem roller has two smooth drums and is used for surface compaction on asphalt and finished layers.
In summary:
- Single drum: best for earthworks, sub-base and deep ground compaction.
- Tandem roller: best for asphalt, reinstatement work and surface finishing.
Which jobs or site conditions are best suited to a JCB single drum soil compactor?
Single drum compactors perform best in demanding ground preparation environments, including:
- Road and highway construction
- Large earthworks projects
- Embankments and foundations
- Industrial and commercial site preparation
- Landfill and waste site compaction
- Agricultural and forestry land shaping
They are ideal for soft, loose or uneven ground where deep compaction is essential.
How do JCB Single Drum Compactors ensure optimal compaction density?
JCB single drum compactors include advanced features designed to deliver consistent, effective compaction. These include:
- High vibration frequencies and centrifugal forces
- Drum designs that maximise soil penetration
- Automatic vibration control for even compaction
- Traction control systems for working on slopes or loose ground
- Rear wheel drive for stability and climbing performance
- Optional compaction measurement systems for real-time feedback
These features help operators achieve the correct density with fewer passes.
What are the different types of single drum rollers?
Single drum rollers are available in several configurations to suit different materials and site conditions:
- Smooth drum compactors, ideal for granular soils, sand, gravel and
- Padfoot (sheepsfoot) drum compactors, designed for cohesive soils such
- Variable frequency or dual amplitude models, which allow operators to adjust vibration settings for different materials and depths
Scot JCB can help you choose the best drum type for your typical ground conditions.
Are JCB soil compactors compliant with current emissions regulations?
Yes. JCB single drum soil compactors are equipped with modern Stage V-compliant engines that meet the latest UK and EU emissions standards. They are designed for low fuel consumption, reduced emissions and efficient operation while still delivering high compaction performance.
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