Which equipment is best suited for the compaction of a wide trench?

The sheepsfoot roller is particularly effective for compacting soil in wide trenches due to its design and functionality. It features a drum that is equipped with cylindrical feet or pads (the "sheepsfoot" design) that effectively penetrate and compress the soil. This type of compaction equipment exerts a downward force, allowing for deeper penetration into the material.

In wide trenches, achieving uniform and effective compaction is crucial to prevent settling and ensure a stable foundation. The sheepsfoot roller's ability to knead the soil through its weighted feet makes it suitable for this task, especially in cohesive soils, as it reduces air pockets and increases density.

Other options, while useful in specific scenarios, are generally less effective for wide trenches. For instance, a plate compactor is best for smaller areas and tight spaces, and a vibratory roller, which is excellent for larger surfaces, may not effectively target the edges and corners of a trench. A tamping rammer is also more suited to smaller, confined areas rather than wide expanses found in trenches. Thus, the sheepsfoot roller stands out as the optimal choice for this compaction task.