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.

Single Direction and Reversible Compactor Wacker Plates is from Compactor Wacker Plate

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.

Concrete Block Paving – Which Compactor Wacker Plate? is from Compactor Wacker Plate

It could be any number of reasons, which might include insufficient fuel, clogged air filter or damaged spark plug.

Why is compactor wacker plate engine speed and performance important for compaction?

Variation in engine speed and performance can have a significant effect on the exciter, which produces centrifugal force for compaction.

If a compactor wacker plate’s engine produces faster speeds than it is designed for, what may happen?

Apart from possible engine failure, bearings on the exciter may become overloaded by the increase in centrifugal force that will ultimately lead to failure of the bearings.

If a compactor wacker plate’s engine produces lower speeds than it is designed for, what may happen?

Slow travel speed and poor compactor performance may occur due to a low centrifugal force and possible engine failure.

VPM, what does this phrase mean?

VPM or Vibration Per Minute is the measurement of vibrations produced by a compactor wacker plate’s exciter.

The machine’s engine is running but there is no vibration, what is wrong?

The problem could be a worn centrifugal clutch or V-belt on the compactor wacker plate.

The compactor wacker plate exciter contains oil, how important is to have the correct amount of oil?

Failure of the machine’s exciter may arise if there is too much or too little oil within it.

Is it possible to use old fuel to run the machine’s engine?

It is advisable to always use fresh fuel. When the compactor wacker plate is not in use for considerable amount of time, it is advisable to drain the fuel tank to prevent ‘waxing’ of the fuel.

The machine pulls to one side when operating, what is wrong with it?

There could be numerous reasons for this. However, it could be simply due to warped or damaged shock mounts on the compactor wacker plate.

How may a worn base plate affect a machine?

Excess base plate wear may lead to a warped base plate. The consequential damage may also affect and damage the exciter, possibly leading to oil loss, and its securing bolts.

Whilst transporting a machine, it was accidentally dropped. Can it still be used?

For safety reasons, it would be advisable to have the compactor wacker plate inspected by a professional service dealer/repairer before use.

How long can a machine be used between service intervals?

Service intervals are dependant on make and model of the compactor wacker plate. Consult the operator’s handbook for further information or contact a professional dealer for advice.

Compactor Wacker Plate Frequently Asked Questons is from Compactor Wacker Plate

Why Use A Compactor Wacker Plate?

The compactor wacker plate is specifically designed to work in areas where, and produce the same results as, a rolling machine that cannot be used in the same area. For example, a roller machine could be used in situations where compaction of aggregate or soil is needed on sites for dwellings and other large buildings but is however unsuitable for the compaction of materials in areas, such as paths and driveways, that may be only several square metres in size. Failure to properly compact materials may have serious implications later that could also include subsidence of building foundations and floors. Poor compaction can be easily seen in gardens, paths and driveways due to the presence of small to large areas of shallow sunken holes or unstable surfaces, which are caused by the soil or aggregate settling as it is gradually exposed to the natural elements and the force of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

How The Machine Works

How a compactor wacker plate is fairly simple. As the machine operates, the footplate on the bottom of it is moved up and down rapidly by the machine’s exciter. The impact forces generated by the exciter and the weight of the footplate begin to tightly pack together the materials beneath it. Sometimes, water is added to the surface area to be compacted which aids better compaction and dust suppression. The type of compactor wacker plate used in respect of its weight, horsepower and applied centrifugal force and the ability of the operator will determine the amount of compaction applied to a specific material. Nevertheless, not every machine is suitable for every material to be compacted. Some materials are easier to compact than others since they break and fall apart under load from the machine and then compact into a tighter area providing less room for settlement. This can be better visualised if you imagine a bucket that is filled with loose granular soil and then you apply your fist to the top of the soil whilst applying a downward force. The soil beneath you fist begins to sink as the soil compacts into a tighter area and then becomes harder to compress as the soil structure becomes firmer and stabilises. When using a compactor wacker plate, it may take several passes over the same compaction surface area to obtain the required result. It is recommended that the machine’s instruction book be consulted first to obtain this information or if still in doubt, the manufacturer or hire company is contacted before the operator starts a specific job. However, a professional compactor wacker plate operative will have gained the necessary experience to conclude when a certain material has received appropriate compaction.

When maintained and used correctly, the compactor wacker plate is an invaluable piece of light equipment for both professionals and those individuals who are contemplating carrying out landscaping or construction works.

How A Compactor Wacker Plate Works is from Compactor Wacker Plate

Daily and Monthly Inspections

After using a compactor wacker plates, it would be advisable to wash the base plate of any accumulations of dirt and detritus in order to visually expose the base plate for any signs of damage or unseen maintenance. Care must be taken not to directly wash sensitive areas on the machine’s electrical equipment and battery as this could cause shorting and a fire, or its fuel tank and delivery system, which may cause contamination of the fuel. To prevent damage to seals on a compactor wacker plate, steam washers should not be used for cleaning.

Always check the machine’s air filter by removing it from its housing and inspecting it for excess dirt and dust. Blow out any excess dust from the inside of the filter out with compressed air at approximately 80psi. If the filter is severely contaminated or damaged then it must be replaced immediately to prevent damage to the engine. If the machine uses a petrol engine then on a monthly basis, remove and inspect the spark plug for wear and damage and replace if necessary.

Generally inspect the machine all over and tighten and nuts and bolts including those on safety apparatus that may have become loose. Also inspect fuel lines for abrasion or cutting and replace if necessary. It would also be worth checking the fuel filter for any sediment or dirt and replace as required and in any event replace it every 12 months.

Check the levels of the compactor wacker plate’s battery and top up if required. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and clean if necessary. To prevent further corrosion of the terminals apply a liberal amount of electrical grease around them. Also check the battery securing bracket or plate and tighten it if has become loose.

Before checking the hydraulic fluid and oil levels on a compactor wacker plate, ensure it is positioned a flat surface to prevent inaccurate measurements. When carrying out measurements, always observe for contaminated hydraulic fluid and oil. Any chalky colour or other discoloration of the hydraulic fluid will require replacement of the fluid.

A compactor wacker plate is placed under harsh vibration and stresses when in operation which will, over a period of time, eventually lead to wear and tear on essential belts. If any belt on the machine appears to have excess movement in it, then it would be advisable to tension it or replace it with a genuine replacement from the manufacturer of the machine.

Make sure that eccentric oils are checked and at the correct levels before operating the machine. Too much oil in the eccentric bath will cause the compactor wacker plate to slow down adding further operating time due to the increase in required compaction. Insufficient oil will lead to the damage of the bearings.

Compactor Wacker Plate Maintenance is from Compactor Wacker Plate

This compactor wacker plate is specifically manufactured for compacting granular soil in small trenches and therefore ideal for building construction, underground drainage works, foundations, forms, columns, curbs, gutters and around tanks.

Further Advantages

Curved edges and running surfaces are specially formed to give highest performance and manoeuvrability. A lightweight belt shield fully encloses and guards the belt for less wear and minimal service. New ‘low-vibration’ guides handle helps to reduce operator fatigue and enhance comfort. Vibration is reduced by heavy-duty shock mounts located on the engine console, which help to decrease compactor wacker plate component wear. For better work efficiency, exciter bearings are designed for minimal care. Unit transportation is enhanced with ergonomically designed lifting handles for operator-friendly loading and unloading. Improved design and larger capacity of water tank and filler opening provide higher work output.

The VP 1340A standard package is complete with operator’s manual and parts book.

Accessories (purchased separately)

	Water Tank Kit	Water tank kit suitable for asphalt (hot or cold) applications .
	Protective Pad Kit	For use on paving slab stones, a urethane pad attaches easily on to the front of the base plate.
	Transport Trolley	Transport trolley suitable for fast and simple transport of the vibratory plate around the work site.

Technical Data

Please note: Owing to continuous product development, specifications may change without notice. Actual power rating may vary depending on conditions of use.

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Wacker Neuson VP 1340A Value Vibratory Soil Plate is from Compactor Wacker Plate

Specially designed rubber mounts separate the powertrain from the exciter, where transmission from the engine to the exciter is accomplished using V-belts. Depending on the model of the machine, the guiding handle is attached to the upper or lower assemblages. To help reduce operator fatigue, further specially designed rubber mounts absorb shock produce by the machine.

The operation and effectiveness of a compactor plate is governed by the machine’s powertrain and exciter locations, the exciter design and vibration frequency, and the overall static weight of the machine.

Engine Location In Relation To The Exciter

An important design aspect of a compactor plate is the relevant location of the machine’s engine in relation to its exciter component. A machine that produces uniform amplitude at the front and rear of the base plate has the engine located directly and centrally over the exciter. However, a machine with an engine located at the rear and the exciter at the front will produce more amplitude at the front of the base plate than the rear. This particular design provides a faster forward speed, lower centre of gravity and a better ability to compact soils with a specific amount of cohesive elements.

The Significance Of Static Weight

Machines having a static weight of between 68kg to 136kg (150 to 300lb) are dependant upon the centrifugal force generated by the exciter to produce the necessary vibratory action to successfully compact soils. Larger vibratory plates having a static weight of over 136kg (300lb) have the advantage of combining the static weight together with the vibratory action produced by the exciter. This arrangement not only vibrates soil elements but also squeezes them to provide better compaction.

The Design Of The Exciter

A compactor plate’s exciter component is the fundamental element of the machine. To create centrifugal force, the exciter principally works by rotating an unbalanced eccentric weight at high velocity. In doing so, the exciter produces vibration and forward movement that compacts soils. The exciter component can be greased or oil lubricated. If oil lubricated, then care must be taken to ensure the precise amount of oil is installed within the exciter. Too much oil will overheat the exciter bearings and have a negative effect on compaction performance whilst too little oil will damage the exciter bearings.

Frequencies Produced By The Exciter

Each soil particle reacts differently to the variety of vibratory frequencies produced by a machine’s exciter. Smaller soil particles respond significantly better to rapid vibratory frequencies whilst larger soil particles respond to slower vibratory frequencies. Consequently, it is essential that the vibration frequency of the exciter is consistent with the size of the principal soil particles to be compacted. As the exciter frequency move towards the reverberative frequency of the soil particles been compacted, soil particles then begin to sympathetically vibrate with maximum amplitudes.

Important Compactor Plate Design Aspects is from Compactor Wacker Plate

Further Advantages

Operators can easily reverse the machine, due to its light weight, by manually pulling it back. The ‘Dual Force’ base plate provides compaction levels equal to standard heavier plates. Overall, the Minipac 300 is a low cost alternative for small size compaction works.

Technical Data

Please note: Owing to continuous product development, specifications may change without notice. Actual power rating may vary depending on conditions of use.

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Belle Minipac 300 Compactor Plate is from Compactor Wacker Plate