A vibratory plate compactor is an engine powered tool that you walk behind while it compresses asphalt and loose material that it moves over. This is done via a plate that is attached to the bottom of the machine. The size of these vibratory plates varies from 1.5 sqft to 3 sq ft. A small compactor can create a centrifugal force of about 3,000 to 4,000 lbs
There are three types of plate compactors – single, reversible and dual or heavy duty. The kind of compactor is chosen based on the job that needs to be done. A single plate compactor moves only in one direction, while the reversible one can move both forward and backwards. The heavy duty or dual compactors are used in areas where compression is required at deeper depths. The material that the plate is made of, i.e. iron or steel, should also be taken into consideration depending on the type of job. Iron plates are stiffer, allowing for more efficient compression.
While most compactors are powered by an engine, there are often places where they cannot be used. Air-Powered Vibratory Plate compactors are very useful in these situations. These are used inside buildings and in deep trenches, inside oil refineries that cannot risk a spark and where an electric connection is not available.
There are three types of plate compactors – single, reversible and dual or heavy duty. The kind of compactor is chosen based on the job that needs to be done. A single plate compactor moves only in one direction, while the reversible one can move both forward and backwards. The heavy duty or dual compactors are used in areas where compression is required at deeper depths. The material that the plate is made of, i.e. iron or steel, should also be taken into consideration depending on the type of job. Iron plates are stiffer, allowing for more efficient compression.
While most compactors are powered by an engine, there are often places where they cannot be used. Air-Powered Vibratory Plate compactors are very useful in these situations. These are used inside buildings and in deep trenches, inside oil refineries that cannot risk a spark and where an electric connection is not available.