Roller is a term used to describe a range of machines used to flatten and compress different surfaces. Rollers are commonly referred to as steam rollers however steam is rarely used to power modern models. Similar to bulldozers, rollers rely on brute strength and are invaluable for jobs involving levelling uneven or newly applied surfaces.

A roller as a name is used to describe steam rollers as well as rollers used in agricultural and other purposes. Many people still refer to road rollers as steam rollers even though very few rollers are actually powered by steam. Usually only large scale rollers used for jobs such as road work are powered by steam.

Road rollers are also known as roller compacters. This is as the roller functions by compacting loose surfaces of soil, gravel, concrete and other materials. This process is commonly used for creating roads and laying foundations.

Using the weight of the entire machine the loose materials are compressed together to form a tough, even surface. The first stage is carried out using a roller with pneumatic tyres where the usual roller is replaced by two rows of pneumatic tyres. The two rolls are fitted to the front and back and the flexible nature helps the roller to form the ground. The surface is then completed using a metal drum to give shape.

Rollers, like many other industrial tools, can easily be adapted to complete a range of tasks. Roller designs range from hand operated single drum devices to rollers fitted with a cab weighing up to 20 tons.

• Rollers are often adapted for use on landfill sites to compact excess levels of waste. By fitting a different set of wheels with a more uneven texture the excess waste can be compacted down into a smaller space.
• Many new rollers have modified hollowed drums. Using this system the roller can be easily transported on site and filled with water to add weight. Once the work has been completed the water can be drained allowing for easy transportation back off site.
• Another economical variation is to have vibrating drums. For certain jobs this can be useful as the motion of the drum exerts more pressure without the need for extra weight.

Traditional designs and hand driven models often feature a single drum. Rollers are available with two or more drums to reduce repeat runs over surfaces. Other designs have featured a single drum with back rollers replaced with pneumatic tyres. Using tyres instead of drums can improve grip significantly.