Vibrating plate with your own hands: technical availability and warranty

Vibrating plate with your own hands: technical availability and quality assurance

The actions of machines on a large construction site seem well-coordinated and very fast. Yesterday a huge bucket was digging into the ground, and today there is already the first level of the future building. This is on large-scale construction sites. But even if you need to put a country house, the principles are the same: first you need to prepare the soil, its ramming. It is impractical to buy expensive mechanisms for short–term use. A vibrating plate with your own hands is a real and affordable solution.

The vibrating plate is a special unit designed for ramming soils, concrete surfaces, asphalt pavements

Scope of application and technical characteristics of vibrating plates

A vibrating plate is an aggregate whose main function is ramming. It is used in various fields: for compaction of soil during construction, landscape planning, for ramming bulk materials (sand, pebbles, gravel), when laying asphalt, paving slabs, paving stones.

Vibrating plates are suitable for carrying out work volumes not exceeding 1000 sq.m.

The car is small in size, so it is maneuverable. It can be used both in an open area (when ramming a land plot, parking, pavement, floor in large industrial premises, etc.) and in a confined space (in ditches, trenches, near buildings, near curbs, wells, manholes, etc.).

The vibrating plate for compaction of soil and other bulk materials is recommended for use on areas not exceeding 1000 m2 In large-sized areas, large-sized and more powerful equipment is used for these purposes.

Each model of the vibrating plate has its own performance indicators, which determine the features of its use and scope. So, when choosing a vibrating plate, it is worth paying attention to the following technical characteristics:

• dimensions of the base plate, mm;
• vibration frequency, Hz;

The process of compaction of the required mass of the vibrating plate is carried out as a result of the occurrence of shock vibrations in the debalance

• depth of compaction, mm;
• vibration amplitude, mm;
• power, kW;
• unit weight, kg;
• electricity or fuel consumption, kW/h or l/h;
• maximum productivity, sq.m./h;
• overall dimensions of the device, mm.

Types of vibrating plates: the main differences, advantages and disadvantages

Vibratory plates are divided according to several indicators. The first of them is the type of engine. Depending on which engine is installed on the unit, the plates are:

• petrol;
• diesel;
• electric.

Translational vibrating plate with diesel drive for compaction of soil, asphalt and crushed stone

Electric vibrating plate 220 V is the cheapest and most affordable option. According to technical criteria, it is somewhat inferior to the other two types, since it has a small weight and a low degree of ramming. Most of all, this model is suitable for use on a private plot, in agriculture, in landscaping. Its disadvantage is the mandatory availability of a power source and the limitation of the radius of action by the length of the cord.

In the absence of an electricity source or the inability to connect to the power grid, it is worth buying a gasoline vibrating plate. It is more expensive than electric, but has no restrictions on operating conditions. It is easy to transport and move. Diesel fuel is cheaper than gasoline, but the engine itself is more expensive. Diesel units are the most powerful, they are more often used on construction sites. The disadvantage of a diesel vibrating plate is a significant noise level during operation and high cost.

Useful advice! The engine power directly affects the movement of the plate. At high rates, the unit moves by itself. If the power is low, then the plate can be buried. This disadvantage is aggravated if a layer of fine-grained material is rammed.

Gasoline vibrating plates are a very maneuverable device due to their compact dimensions

Vibratory plates are also divided according to their intended purpose: for tamping asphalt and compacting soil. The former are distinguished by the presence in their design of a device for supplying water irrigation. It is necessary for wetting, a wet surface eliminates sticking to the base. The surface of such a vibrating plate is smooth, the edges are rounded.

The unit for compacting the soil is heavier, the texture of the surface of the plate is relief.

There are machines with translational motion and reverse. The translational ones move in one direction and have one unbalance. The second type of vibrating plate has a reciprocating direction of movement. They have two unbalances, so they can move in different directions. Vibratory plates are controlled manually or remotely. The latter option is convenient and safe, but the price for it is much higher.

A vibrating plate with an electric motor is less functional, it has a low weight and a low degree of ramming

Classification of vibration rammers by weight

Along with the power, an important technical indicator is the mass. It is necessary to pay attention to it when choosing a device model or when creating a tamper with your own hands. According to this parameter , vibrating plates are divided into four types:

Useful advice! When choosing a vibrating plate, it should be borne in mind that a heavy device is less maneuverable, but more efficient. If the mass does not correspond to the thickness of the soil and turns out to be less than recommended, it will take a lot of time to seal and an additional amount of fuel or electricity will be consumed.

Before you buy a vibrating plate, you need to decide for what purposes and where it will be used, its mass will depend on it

The device of the vibrating plate: the main components and methods of connection

To buy a vibrating plate, it is recommended to choose the price by viewing the characteristics of the units and the prices of any trading organization. But it is possible to use it correctly and even more so to make a car with your own hands only if you know its device.

The design of the vibrating plate consists of the following main components:

• engine;
• vibrator;
• plates;
• centrifugal clutch;
• motor frame;
• control knobs;
• protective covers.

A vibrator is installed on a heavy platform, the basis of which is an unbalanced shaft placed in bearing supports and a cylindrical housing. The structure is fixed with clamps, bolted to the plate. An important detail in the device of the vibrating plate, which is also attached to the platform, is the motor frame. It is attached with shock absorbers.

The main components of the vibrating plates

An engine is located above the vibration exciter. The motor and the vibrator are connected by a coupling and a V-belt transmission. During operation, the motor creates rotational movements, which are transmitted to the vibrator, which converts them into oscillatory. These movements are communicated to the plate, and then to the surface layer, which is compacted.

If the functions of the vibrating plate include ramming paving slabs or paving stones, then the model must be equipped with a softening nozzle made of plastic or a special support surface made of polyurethane.

The principle of operation

Working mechanisms have a shock effect on the surface of the plate, which produces a certain number of movements when in contact with the ground – this is the basis of the principle of operation of this device. Kinetic energy on impact is converted into other types of energy. The pressure on the surface increases instantly, and then the same instantaneous decline occurs. Therefore, in addition to the impact force, speed and frequency are effective. As a result of this action, small particles fill the voids, resulting in a very dense, even coating.

Its characteristics depend on the quality of the material from which the working plate is made

Two types of material are used for the manufacture of plates: cast iron and steel.

Useful advice! When choosing a unit with a cast-iron plate, be sure to pay attention to the brand of metal. A low-quality cast-iron plate can become cracked with prolonged use on gravel.

The size of the slab is also important during operation: the smaller its area, the better its ramming qualities. Vibration indicators determine how well the surface will be compacted. If the plates have the same mass, but different vibration forces, then the unit with higher indicators will tamper better.

Manufacturers, recommended models  

For non-large-scale work, it is recommended to buy an electric vibrating plate. It is not heavy, has a folding handle, which allows you to move and transport it to the desired object. The unit has an adjustable frequency converter that allows you to change the vibration frequency, limit the starting currents, save electricity, and set the optimal operating mode for these conditions.  You can buy an electric vibrating plate, the price of which is several times less than the types with fuel engines, from any manufacturer where such products are presented.

Ammann vibrating plates are versatile and have the ability to easily adapt to various types of work

Vibratory plates with gasoline engines are the most in demand, and therefore widely represented. The units of the Swiss company Ammann are very popular, whose plants have been operating all over Europe for a long time and have already gone beyond its borders. The line of units includes almost all types (from ultralight to the heaviest) diesel vibration rammers.

Related article:

Vibrating table for paving slabs with your own hands: all stages of design and assembly

Features of the device assembly and selection of the electric motor. What materials are needed for the frame. Manufacturing instructions.

Ammapp vibrating plates are distinguished by a high level of comfortable conditions necessary for the operator’s work. The guide handle is maximally isolated from the motor to reduce vibration. An additional vibration damping guide has also been patented, which can be used as an additional option. The engines are economical. There are models that run on both gasoline and diesel fuel.

Splitstone vibratory plates have taken a strong place in the construction equipment market today as a technique that has a high level of quality and reliability

Among domestic manufacturers, the Russian Splintstone group of industrial companies supplies competitive products to the market. Vibration units have good technical characteristics and a low price. It is particularly worth highlighting the Splitstone VS-244 vibrating plate. This is the most popular vibrating plate with a balanced combination of performance, performance and cost. With a weight of 74 kg, it tampers a layer of 100 mm. The VS-244 vibrating plate provides compaction of bulk materials, various soils and asphalt in small areas, in limited spaces.

The Chamriop PC9045F vibrating plate is a product of American development and high–quality Chinese assembly. This model can be used both for personal purposes and on construction sites. Powerful, sealing depth 300 mm. The noise level is acceptable. Air cooling, there is no bulky water tank. The disadvantage of the unit can be considered the lack of reverse.

Wacker Neuson gasoline vibrating plates are German–made products. The company of the same name (Wacker Neuson) has been operating in Germany since 2007 and specializes in light construction equipment. The products are of high quality and a considerable price. The Wacker Neuson MP15 vibrating plate in the model range represents the best option for matching an affordable price and good technical characteristics. Small dimensions allow the use of a vibration compactor even in narrowly limited places. The device has a water-doused system, which allows the use of hot mixtures in operation. The folding guide and convenient lifting handles provide easy transportation. Wear-resistant bearings extend the service life. The unit is straight-propelled, this somewhat limits its capabilities.

Compact, low-weight gasoline vibrating plate Champion PC9045F is effective for use in limited areas and for small amounts of work

Vibratory plates with Honda engines are in particular demand in the construction equipment market. These mechanisms are small in size, economical and have a long service life. Honda gasoline vibrating plates have different characteristics. They are represented in a significant number in both light and medium-heavy models.

Useful advice! To profitably buy a gasoline vibrating plate, prices must be viewed in at least 3-5 price lists. Sometimes the difference in their cost is 15-20%.

Which is better: rent a vibrating plate or buy a used one?

If funds are limited or it is impractical to buy a unit for one-time work on a small site, you can rent a vibrating plate. The main advantages of this operation option are a significant reduction in financial costs and the absence of the need for preventive maintenance. The process of registering the lease of a gasoline vibrating plate (however, as well as electric or diesel) should include a number of mandatory points:

• drafting a contract that specifies the terms of use of the equipment and the obligations of the parties;
• preparation of acceptance and delivery certificates of the unit;

If there is no large volume and constant work for the vibrating plate, then it is best to rent the unit

• conducting instruction on safe use.

 The rental price of the vibrating plate ranges from 700 to 5000 rubles. per day. It depends most of all on the weight of the machine and the terms of use. Heavy units are more expensive. Long-term rental offers discounts. When renting a gasoline vibrating plate, fuel is not included in the payment. The unit is refueled at the expense of the tenant.

To save money if it is necessary to tamper the soil and other surfaces, you can buy a used vibrating plate. But in such a situation, you need to be prepared for the fact that the guarantees will be only verbal. The further service life of the machine cannot be determined. The degree of wear can only be set relative, according to visual assessment, it is not determined by the release date. There is always a risk to buy a unit, which is disposed of for some technical reasons. Most often, it is impossible to return the mechanism that was in operation to the seller.

Useful advice! Having decided to buy a used vibrating plate, be sure to check the operation of the engine. If there are problems, they will accordingly manifest themselves with unusual noise, startup delay or other deviations from the norm.

Vibratory plate rental is a very popular service among builders, because there are a number of advantages of renting before buying

How to make a vibrating plate with your own hands: necessary spare parts and assembly sequence

Of course, you can buy a 220 V electric vibrating plate, or you can make an equally inferior mechanism with your own hands. There are enough advantages of this option:

• significant cost savings (at least 50%);
• confidence in the build quality;
• creating a mechanism with the desired characteristics;
• moral satisfaction.

The 220 V electric vibrating plate does not require drawings with its own hands, since the design is not characterized by complexity and it is impractical to spend time on calculations in paper form. As an engine, as an option, you can use a platform vibrator for the IV-98E vibrating plate, operating from a 220 V network. If a gasoline option is chosen, then a three-stroke engine with one cylinder, preferably a Honda model, will do.

The base for the platform can be sheet metal with a thickness of 8 mm and a size of 45×80 mm. You will also need 2 channels, 2 elastic cushions for fixing the handle, M10 bolts for an electric motor or M12 for a gasoline engine, 2 plastic wheels, a pipe segment, a hollow pipe 1.2 m long.

Diagram with the dimensions of the electric vibrating plate

The assembly sequence of a vibrating plate with an electric motor with your own hands:

• the cover is removed from the electric motor so that it is possible to adjust the vibration force;
• two incisions are made on a sheet of metal at a distance of 10 cm from the edge, 5 cm deep. The edges of the incisions are bent with a hammer. This is necessary so that the plate does not dig into the ground;
• with the help of channels, a vibrator is attached to the plate. The edges should not protrude beyond the work surface. Mounting method – welding;
• the vibrator is attached to the metal with M10 bolts. The holes on the channels are drilled at the same distance as the mounting holes of the motor;
• a handle is made from the pipe and attached to the base through the pillows. Pillows dampen vibration;
• then a piece of pipe is welded, wheels are attached to it – for transportation.

Useful advice! A homemade vibrating plate should be tested on a small area of a soft loose surface, giving a minimum load. This will reduce to zero the risk of injury in case of violations in the operation of the mechanism.

A self–assembled electric vibrating plate is a reliable mechanism that will not yield to factory ones in terms of service life. An insignificant disadvantage can be considered only the low aesthetics of a homemade device. Although, if desired, this disadvantage can be easily eliminated by painting the details in bright colors.

A vibrating plate with your own hands is quite a feasible task in the presence of all the necessary components

Vibrating plate with your own hands: tips for operation

A self-created vibration rammer will become a subject of self-respect and will ensure smooth operation if you adhere to certain operating rules:

• before turning on the unit, check the strength of the fasteners and the presence of damage, eliminate the identified shortcomings before use;
• after switching on, let the engine warm up for 2-3 minutes;
• use the vibrating plate only on loose surfaces;
• timely replace air filters and oil in gasoline models (every 100 hours of operation);
• do not allow the engine to overheat;
• keep the device clean and carry out preventive maintenance;

It is not advisable to overload the motor of a homemade vibrating plate by tamping too hard or moving too fast

• if a polyurethane mat is used, it must be cleaned after each application.

Useful advice! If it is necessary to seal several layers, each layer should be tamped separately. This will ensure the quality and extend the durability of the mechanism.

To reduce vibration during operation, it is required to make loops of thick rope on the handle and hold on to them. In this case, the impact on the hands and upper limbs is significantly reduced. If you need to water the surface, you should attach a water tank and a hose from which water will be supplied and consistently irrigate the necessary areas. It is necessary to ensure that moisture does not get on the engine.

If after one passage the surface is not sufficiently compacted, it is recommended to repeat the action until the desired result is achieved. Most often it is necessary to do ramming of one section by passing 5-6 times.

For safe use of the vibrating plate, make sure that all nuts and bolts are securely tightened

The appearance of vibrating plates accelerated the process of sealing surfaces hundreds of times. A variety of modifications allows you to choose the necessary mechanism for high-quality and comfortable work. The possibility of making a homemade vibrating plate made it possible for people with various material capabilities to use the unit.