Equipment is a key element in maintenance Equipment is a key element in paving and pavement maintenance. One key piece of equipment for almost all jobs is a plate compactor. Whacker Plate compactors can become used to compact sub base and asphalt upon driveways, parking lots and repair jobs. They are also useful in confined areas where a larger roller is probably not able reach. As it pertains to selecting the right plate compactor, contractors possess a few options to consider. There are usually three main categories of plate compactors: a single-plate compactor, a relatively easy to fix plate compactor, and a high performance/heavy-duty plate compactor. Which a single a contractor decides depends on the dimensions and type of job he or she is carrying out, says Torsten Erbel, Multiquip's director of product management. Single-plate compactors go in a forward direction only, and are probably the most wellknown choice for smaller asphalt jobs. Reversible plates will go in both forward and also reverse, and a few also operate in a hover function, Erbel says. Relatively easy to fix and high performance/heavy-duty plate compactors are often used for sub bottom or deeper level compaction, he contributes. Plates on plate compactors are typically measured in width, and measurements can range through 15 to 25 in., says Wacker Neuson's National Product Specialist Jim Lewis. But size isn't the only measurement contractors should search for when purchasing any plate compactor. "Most with the small plate compactors generate close to 3,000 to 4,000 lbs. of centrifugal force," Erbel states. "Centrifugal force shouldn't be interpreted as how hard a plate 'hits'. For many many years the industry has used this term since comparative value and contractors have soundlessly adopted it without having truly understanding the value of generated centrifugal force on it's own has no impact to performance," Erbel adds. "Other values for instance amplitude and weight will contribute to the overall plate performance." Contractors should carefully review all the published specifications when investing in a plate compactor. The eccentric frequency of the plate is another factor to consider, says Ed Varel, engineering project manager with regard to Stone Construction Equipment. Lower eccentric frequencies (or vibrations per minute - vpm) are great for cohesive soils crunch. For asphalt and granular materials, companies will want to look for a higher vpm, Varel claims. Contractors should additionally look at the particular plate itself. Is the particular plate made of cast malleable iron or steel? "A cast ductile iron base plate may be firmer allowing for more efficient compaction of the material," Lewis says. The actual shape of the base plate also affects crush. A curved plate can make turning easier and prevent the plate from gouging the actual asphalt, Erbel states. How can you tell if the particular plate is curved? Erbel says to look underneath in the center of the particular plate to the edging. Though it is hard to notice, the plate will be somewhat bent up, he states. The geometry of the plate is important with regard to working in tight places, Varel adds. Apart from the plate itself, contractors must make sure the plate compactor comes using a water tank. The water helps create a barrier between the new asphalt and the particular cold
compaction plate preventing the plate from sticking to the asphalt, Erbel says. A brand new feature plate compactors might have got is an anti-vibration handle. The particular anti-vibration handle cuts down on vibration transfer from the plate to the operator, making more comfort for the actual operator. In addition to anti-vibration, Lewis indicates looking for any plate compactor with the central-mounted handle. "Any central-mounted handle makes it easier to maneuver on the asphalt and is actually less apt to do any cutting or tearing of the material," Lewis says. A swinging manage can also make maneuverability easier to have an operator. "Sometimes the particular handle is installed in the back; sometimes it's mounted in the center of the plate. Depending on the mount location that gives you a different golf swing range and additionally different heights since you swing the plate handle forward," Erbel says. "Once the handle is installed in the center then a operating height with the handle seems to be more degree in either direction plus more comfortable for the operator." Although Whacker Plate compactors are often self-explanatory items of equipment, contractors need to make sure they know the way to operate the compactors and how to maintain them to keep plates in good working problem. As with most equipment, Lewis says it is necessary to follow the operator's manual for maintenance. "Nearly all maintenance is for your engine, and contractors ought to follow the engine manufacturer's recommended intervals, quantities, and also types for oil, fuel, and air filters," Varel states. And make sure to clean off the beds base plate and in between the dishes daily to remove any asphalt that may be stuck on. Lewis also claims to make sure the cistern is free of debris. Daily checks of components, especially bolt tightness, will help avoid any unnecessary outages on the career. Varel adds in which contractors should check belt tension and condition and engine rpms weekly. Erbel also indicates inquiring into the kind of service a manufacture offers with the plate compactor. Is there a warranty? The length of time is the plate compactor covered? Any kind of exclusions in the warranty? What type of service support do they provide and who handles that service? What is the particular parts availability like? "The particular key for the company when selecting any dealer is it's critical to understand what sort of support the dealer can give her or him," Erbel says. When choosing and purchasing any plate compactor, it is important to look at not only price. Make sure you find a plate the suits the kinds of jobs it will become used on, and make sure it gets the features and factors to allow you to get the best crush and smoothest job possible.