A plate compactor is used to compress some types of soil and gravel for construction projects that require a stable subsurface.
Plate compactors come in many different designs with different accessories, though the major features are stable. The core of the machine is a heavy, flat plate that rests on the ground when the machine is off. The plate is driven or vibrated up and down with either gasoline or diesel engines.
How Plate Compactors Work
As a plate compactor runs, the heavy plate on the bottom of the machine moves up and down quickly. The combination of rapid impacts, plate weight and impact forces the soil underneath to compact or pack together more tightly. Plate compactors are at their best when they are used on granular soil types, such as those that have higher sand or gravel content. In some cases, it is beneficial to add some moisture to the soil prior to using the plate compactor. Two to four passes over the soil is generally sufficient to achieve proper compaction, but the compactor manufacturer or rental establishment should be able to provide some guidance on a case-by-case basis.
Plate compactors can be used to compact sub base and asphalt on driveways, parking lots and repair jobs. They are useful in confined areas where a larger roller may not be able reach. When it comes to selecting the right plate compactor, contractors have a few options to consider.
There are three main categories of plate compactors: a single-plate compactor, a reversible plate compactor, and a high performance/heavy-duty plate compactor. Which one a contractor chooses depends on the size and type of job he or she is doing.
Single-plate compactors go in a forward direction only, and are probably the most popular choice for smaller asphalt jobs. Reversible plates can go in both forward and reverse, and some also operate in a hover mode. Reversible and high performance/heavy-duty plate compactors are often used for sub base or deeper depth compaction.
Hydraulic Plate Compactors
Plate compactors are often used as attachments on an excavator or backhoe, replacing the bucket at the end of the stick. Excavator plate compactors can work productively virtually anywhere an excavator or backhoe boom can reach: in trenches, over and around pipe, or to the top of piling and sheet pile. It can work next to foundations, around obstructions, and even on steep slopes or rough terrain where conventional rollers and other machines either can't work or would be hazardous to try. In fact, excavator compactors can keep workers a full boom's length from the compaction or driving action, ensuring workers are away from the danger of cave-ins or equipment contact.
These two operating advantages are absolutely required by today's contractors and budget-conscious municipalities. Utilizing your carrier's hydraulic system, you save on fuel in addition to the need for other costly machines and equipment. This can be accomplished by using your excavator plate compactor for:
• Compacting or driving anywhere a boom can go, and often where a man cannot.
• Aggregate and soil compaction
• Trench compaction, as deep as a bucket can dig
• Steep slope compaction
• Soil stabilization
• Waste compaction at waste transfer stations, etc.
Conquest Hydraulic Compaction Plates
Conquest Attachments’ hydraulic plate compactors deliver powerful and durable results for projects large and small. Designed for extended component life, these compactors will increase your productivity for years to come.
• Available for 5-40 Ton Machines
• Designed for Extreme Operating Conditions
• Industry Leading Compaction Technology
• 2 Year Factory Warranty
• Meets ISO 9001 Standards
• Local Parts and Service
We offer purchase, rent, lease and RPO options for our attachments. For more information on our hydraulic plate compactors, contact us.