It is less expensive, though it is more easily damaged. Steel is lighter and usually used on smaller machines. The vibratory plate itself is usually made of steel, though cast iron is also used. Vibrations help the material settle, and are as important as the actual force applied when it comes to loose materials.Ĭompaction depth is sometimes given in product descriptions, though it very much depends on the material being compacted so the figure is of limited value.
Vibration frequency, usually measured in VPM (vibrations per minute) or BPM (blows per minute) has a big impact when working with granular soils that contain a lot of sand or gravel. For example, concrete pavers can be damaged if too much force is applied, so it is important to choose a machine that’s appropriate for the surface being compacted. However, absolute force isn’t always the best approach. Heavy-duty commercial models can top 20,000 pounds. This refers to the pressure applied to the surface being compacted and has a much greater impact than the machine’s weight.Įven relatively small machines can produce 1,800 pounds of force per square foot (ft2) or more. Not surprisingly, compaction force is a key figure when assessing the best plate compactor. Both Honda and Kohler engines are particularly popular and have an outstanding reputation for reliability. It’s common for plate compactor companies not to make the motors in their products, often buying them from a specialist manufacturer instead. In the case of machines like plate compactors, it is more beneficial to have greater horsepower than higher capacity. However, horsepower (HP)-closely related to but different from capacity-is a better representation of the amount of work the machine does. The models that made our top picks range from 160cc to 260cc. Engine Power and CapacityĮngine capacity is often seen as a measure of plate compactor performance, and generally speaking, more CCs (cubic centimeters) means more power. In fact, some heavy-duty models create such intense vibration that a remote joystick is necessary to maneuver them. However, these machines can be challenging to control. Reversible plate compactors can move backward or forward. Given their compact size, it is relatively easy to guide them in the required direction. Most small and mid-size machines are single, which means they move in one direction only. Plate compactors fall under two general categories: single or reversible. A mechanism causes the plate to vibrate rapidly, thus compressing and/or smoothing the material underneath. In basic terms, a plate compactor (also known as a wacker plate), is a steel plate with a gasoline or diesel engine mounted to it. Whether you’re a contractor considering buying a plate compactor for your business or a DIYer looking to rent one for a project, it’s important to understand the various types of devices available, how they work, and what they’re made of. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Plate Compactor ALSO CONSIDER: BILT HARD Plate Compactor Rammer, 21 x 14.5 inch.HONORABLE MENTION: Powerhorse Single-Direction Plate Compactor.BEST MANEUVERABILITY: NorthStar Close-Quarters Plate Compactor -with 5.5 HP.BEST FOR ASPHALT: Multiquip MVC82VHW Honda GX160 Plate Compactor.BEST FOR SOIL: Tomahawk Power Vibratory Plate Compactor for Soil.BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: XtremepowerUS 61017 Walk Behind Plate Compactor.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Stark Pro-Series 6.5HP 5500MAX VPM Walk Behind Plate.
0 kommentar(er)
