JCB VM 117 vs CASE 1107 NX: Which Soil Compactor to Buy for Road Construction?

According to Invest India, the country is investing around Rs. 2,87,142 crore in boosting road and highway infrastructure. To support this growth, the need for reliable soil compactors is increasing. Among all the top models, JCB VM 117 and CASE 1107 NX are the most popular soil compactors.

But which compactor actually suits road infrastructure construction better? Let's find out.

Difference Between JCB VM 117 and CASE 1107 NX

Here, we'll look at engine power, weight, compaction and comfort features of both JCB VM 117 and CASE 1107 NX.

Engine Power and Performance

JCB VM 117 uses a 74 HP JCB EcoMAX engine that meets CEV Stage V emission norms. Its mechanical engine with inline fuel injection has a simple design which makes routine servicing easier. On road projects, this power is useful for compacting subgrade and base layers before asphalt is laid.

In comparison, CASE 1107 NX comes with a more powerful 101 HP engine meeting the same Stage V norms. It also features a dual mode vibration system that adjusts the vibration setting according to the soil type. This helps when highway projects involve compacting soil, gravel and granular base layers.

So, CASE 1107 soil compactor is the better choice when a project needs higher engine power and stronger compaction. JCB VM 117 is a better option when you want a simpler engine that is easier to service.

Operating Weight and Compaction Force

• JCB VM 117: Operating weight of around 11525 kg with a centrifugal force of 256 kN
• CASE 1107 NX: Operating weight of up to 11110 kg with a centrifugal force of 263 kN. 

JCB VM 117 soil compactor weighs around 415 kg more than CASE 1107 NX. This higher weight adds more static pressure on the surface during compaction. It can help when compacting soil layers and preparing the roadbed before laying the granular base. 

CASE 1107 NX produces 7 kN more centrifugal force than JCB VM 117. This gives it a stronger vibration when compacting materials like gravel and crushed stone. As a result it can compact highway base layers more effectively in fewer passes depending on the material.

Drum Design and Soil Handling

• JCB VM 117: 2100 mm drum width 1500 mm drum diameter.
• CASE 1107 NX: 2150 mm drum width 1500 mm drum diameter.

CASE 1107 NX has a 50 mm wider drum so it can cover a slightly larger area with each pass. This can help when compacting wide road and highway base layers. 

JCB VM 117 offers two variants based on drum drive. The non drum drive variant has propulsion through the rear axle while the drum drive variant also drives the front drum. The drum drive option can provide better traction when compacting and moving over loose soil or prepared road layers. 

For highway work, CASE's dual mode vibration with adjustable displacement gives operators more control over compaction when working on different layers such as soil subgrade and granular road base. 

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

JCB VM 117 has a 300 litre fuel tank. Meanwhile CASE roller 1107 diesel tank capacity is 275 litres. 

This gives JCB an advantage on highway projects where the compactor needs to cover long road sections between refuelling stops. Its EcoMAX engine with CRDI technology also helps control fuel delivery during operation.

CASE 1107 NX however focuses more on reducing fuel use. Its Smart Idling technology can cut fuel usage by around 3% when machine is idling between compaction passes or while waiting for the next road layer.

CASE 1107 NX also include many fuel efficiency features such as:

• Automatic engine shutdown: Prevents unnecessary fuel consumption when the engine remains idle.
• Fuel storage with theft protection: Protects the stored fuel at highway construction sites.

Technology and Operator Comfort

Both models offer features that improve operator comfort and machine monitoring.

JCB VM 117

• The suspension seat reduces vibration during compaction.
• ROPS and FOPS provide operator protection.
• LiveLink 4.0 offers GPS tracking, fuel reports and service reminders.

CASE 1107 NX

• Multi adjustable swivel seats improve operator comfort.
• Vibration dampened platform reduces vibration at the operator station.
• myCASE Telematics supports fleet tracking and predictive maintenance.

JCB VM 117 and CASE 1107 NX: Quick Comparison

Here’s side by side specs comparison of JCB VM 117 and CASE 1107 NX:

Which Single Drum Soil Compactor Should You Choose?

• If your project involves rocky terrain, mixed soil and you want lower fuel costs, JCB VM 117 makes a smart choice.
• If you need higher horsepower, better gradeability and flexibility across soil types, CASE 1107 NX might suit you better.

In the end, your decision should depend on your specific site conditions, budget and long term maintenance plans rather than brand preference alone.

Conclusion

JCB VM 117 and CASE 1107 NX offer different strengths within the soil compactor segment. CASE takes the lead in engine power, drum width and maximum centrifugal force. Meanwhile, JCB offers a larger fuel tank and Intellicompaction technology. Therefore, choose CASE for higher power needs or JCB for technology led compaction and longer refueling intervals. Always match the machine with your project conditions and workload.