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.
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Hydraulic Plate Compactors |
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| Category | Unit | GT-mini | GT-04 | GT-06 | GT-08 | GT-10 |
| Height | mm | 610 | 750 | 930 | 1000 | 1100 |
| Width | mm | 420 | 550 | 700 | 900 | 900 |
| Impulse force | ton | 3 | 4 | 6.5 | 11 | 15 |
| Vibration frequency | rpm/min | 2000 | 2000 | 2000 | 2200 | 2200 |
| Oil flow | l/min | 30-60 | 45-85 | 85-105 | 120-170 | 120-170 |
| Operating pressure | kg/cm2 | 100-130 | 100-130 | 100-150 | 150-200 | 150-200 |
| Bottom measurement | mm | 800*420 | 900*550 | 1160*700 | 1350*900 | 1500*1000 |
| Excavator weight | ton | 1.5-3 | 4-10 | 12-16 | 18-24 | 30-40 |
| Weight | kg | 550-600 | 750-850 | 900-1000 | 1100-1300 | |
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.