With the machines required to operate up to 12 hours a day and six days a week, there is little time for breakdowns and maintenance. BOMAG compactors are designed with features such as sealed-tub bottoms that prevent debris from entering the engine compartment and reduce the possibility of fire. In addition, BOMAG compactors feature two scraper assemblies per wheel that are designed to prevent clogging and further reduce maintenance needs. "The BOMAGs really appeal to the operators because they're not spending time removing trash from the machine and having to deal with clogged wheels," said Hansen.

In addition to minimizing repairs, the BOMAG machines have reduced the amount of time spent on daily maintenance. Hansen said, "The BOMAGs have really cut back on our maintenance time. The components are just easier to get to compared to our previous machines."

Along with saving time and money on maintenance, clean wheels are a primary element in assuring traction at landfills. Clogged wheels reduce traction and prevent compactors from operating effectively in the irregularly shaped material and severe slopes common at landfills. Traction concerns are especially important to the L.P. Gill Landfill staff because rain and snow frequently affect the operation. Hansen states, "We get a lot of rain and snow here, but the BOMAGs get around really good because of the wheel design."