When faced with the need to compact the soil in ditches, trenches near foundations and for slope stabilization, construction companies can turn to a variety of products. One of these is the vibratory plate compactor. Although manual versions of this piece of equipment are available, it is also possible to purchase the machinery as an attachment. It then fits on various excavators to ensure the completion of any job with a soil composition of more than 50% granular.
What Qualities to Look For
Using a mini or standard excavator as the receptacle for a compactor requires knowing exactly what is required – what is a good fit. This involves looking at various factors including size compatibility between the compactor and the excavator as well as type of soil. It is important to consider such aspects as:
- Versatility: What type of actions does it perform, or is it solely dedicated to soil compaction?
- Durability: Can it withstand any challenges of the specific work site?
- Maintenance: What is the level of maintenance required to keep the vibratory plate compactor in optimal operating condition?
- Reliability: How tough is the machinery?
- Soil Compaction: What types of soil can it compact successfully? Granular? Cohesive? Aggregate?
- Vibration: How high is the level of vibration?
- Applications: Is it capable of handling the compaction of soil effectively in a variety of locations?
- Safety: How safe is it to operate the compactor?
It is important to insist the compactor is compatible with your existing equipment. It is also essential it meet your expectations in all above the above characteristics.
Purchasing a Vibratory Plate Compactor
Whether you are looking for a manual version or require a compactor for your excavator, always consider the specific demands of the job. If the vibratory plate compactor does not match the specifications of your machine and your job, do not purchase it. Instead, look around, instead, for one that is compatible.