Single Direction and Reversible Compactor Wacker Plates
There are many different designs of compactor wacker plates with each providing a service for a specified job. In the United Kingdom, there are generally two types of machine that are used in most applications – the single direction compactor wacker plate and the reversible compactor wacker plate. Both machines have proven to be an essential part of light equipment used in the landscaping and construction industries. In terms of covering surface area in a given time period, the compactor wacker plate is three to four times more productive than their counterpart, the rammer.
Single Direction Compactor Wacker Plates
Single direction compactor wacker plates are multi-purpose machines that are suitable for operation on block paving applications and landscaping and can be used on tarmacadam and earthworks. Some models can be fitted with a protective plastic plate mat to prevent damage to special surfaces. Where site conditions restrict the use of heavier compaction machines, the single direction compactor wacker plate is a suitable alternative. Owing to their low maintenance, almost effortless handling and transportation due to their low weight, these machines are widely prevalent in the hire industry for DIY operations. Cost-effective petrol engines produce fast working speeds and enable decent climbing ability power for most machines in this range.
Reversible Compactor Wacker Plates
The reversible compactor wacker plate is most suited for a broad range of work on tarmacadam, granular, earthworks and block paving construction and are extensively used in road, path and railway construction. The equipment is also used for foundation work on buildings and pipeline construction. Compaction depth, working width and operating weight govern which particular reversible compactor wacker plate can be used. Most reversible machines consist of low vibration single lever operation and are powered by extended service and economical diesel or petrol engines. Some machines have sprinkler systems installed to aid compaction and dust suppression and most have optional transport wheels to assist the operator with the quick and simple transportation of the machine to and from the site.
Pre-purchase considerations
Before purchasing a compactor wacker plate, potential buyers should consider the base plate size, weight and travel speed of a machine. The base plate size and travel speed should be considered in relation to the type of work to be undertaken. Serious contemplation should also be given to the machine’s weight in respect of lifting, handling and transportation. Another important aspect to consider is the amount of centrifugal force the machine can apply when in use. Due to frequencies that are tuned differently from a single direction compactor wacker plate, reversible machines produce more compaction force than single direction machines. Forward or single direction machines are less expensive, easier to look after and have fewer mechanical troubles when compared to reversible compactor wacker plates. Reversible machines are designed for operation in areas where the user cannot turn around and therefore, naturally, give it an edge over single direction machines. It would be advisable for professional contractors to purchase machines that are manufactured by reputable companies and who should also consider buying an extended warranty from the manufacturer.
Concrete Block Paving – Which Compactor Wacker Plate?
When carrying out a landscape project involving interlocking concrete block paving, to ensure correct compaction levels of the ground beneath the paving the selection of the right light equipment is paramount. Deciding on which compactor wacker plate is relatively easy, as nearly all such projects will only require a single direction compactor wacker plate, which can be hired from most hire shops and builders merchants.
However, care must be taken when encountering cohesive soils including clay soils. These soils should not be compacted with a compactor wacker plate as the composition of these particular soil materials require heavier impacting equipment rather than vibration to attain good compaction densities.
A single directional compactor wacker plate capable of producing three to five thousand pounds of centrifugal force is ample for most concrete block paving projects. A further factor to consider, apart from the machine’s centrifugal force, is its frequency. Frequency is the amount of times the plate on the machine applies force on to the surface beneath it. A compactor wacker plate with a high frequency is more desirable for compacting smaller aggregates used in concrete block paving tasks. A typical machine specification is shown below:
- Plate size: 0.53m wide x 0.50m long
- Overall dimensions: 0.53m wide x 1.10m long x 0.66m high
- Weight: 93 kilograms
- Frequency (vibrations per minute): 7000
- Centrifugal force: 19.80 KN
- Compaction force: 4,450 lbs
- Compaction depth: 0.30m
- Travel speed: 0.45m per second
- Efficiency: 770m2 per hour
When selecting a compactor wacker plate for such tasks, it is also important to consider the machine’s engine power and base plate construction. The addition of easily detachable water tanks for dust suppression and better soil compaction, lifting hooks for easier work site transport by carrying it using a forklift or JCB, and wheel kits to allow the operator to independently move the machine around the site with ease, are several advantages when using a compacting machine in block paving projects. Some compactor wacker plates have the facility to remove the control handle to make transporting within a car boot a lot easier.
Over the years, the increase in block paving tasks has seen both professional and property owners seek new ways to enhance the quality of their concrete block paving projects. The use of the right compactor wacker plate to produce the correct compaction levels during a project is now a much easier and less time consuming way to enhance the visual impact and therefore increase property value whilst helping to ensure that any future expenditure and loss of time in repairs is limited.