Vibratory Plate Compactor

A vibratory plate compactor is an essential piece of equipment for large artificial grass projects. Using the right tools for the job is important when it comes to synthetic turf landscape preparation and you especially don't want to skip compacting the sub layer of crushed gravel and sand. A properly packed base will prevent any shifting, dipping or potholes that may lead to costly headaches down the road. 

A manually operated plate tamper can be rented from almost any tool rental shop and you can purchase a machine if you plan on using it more frequently. They are invaluable for compacting gravel and sand as part of a professional artificial grass project and they can also be used for walkways, driveways and other precise construction work. With their simple design and operation they have one purpose and that is to compact aggregates to provide a solid foundation to work on.

What is a Vibratory Plate Compactor?

A vibratory plate compactor also known as a plate tamper is a power tool that uses a combination of weight and vibration to compact loose aggregate materials. The typical weight of a manual, walk-behind unit ranges from 125 - 200 pounds, are powered by gasoline and in recent years, battery power. The vibration plate width for a common single plate compactor ranges between 12 - 20 inches, each size having it's unique advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Vibratory Plate Compactor

The biggest advantage to using a plate compactor when installing artificial grass is the quality and uniformity you can achieve for the base layer. The gravel sub layer is the backbone or support for synthetic grass and if it isn't solid, even or level you can get an array of problems including shifting, settling or potholes. A plate tamper will help create a smooth surface with minimal imperfections so your final product looks great. You can also be sure that a well compacted crush layer will provide excellent grab strength for the artificial grass nails. 

The main disadvantage to using a vibratory plate compactor is their bulkiness and they can be awkward when trying to transport. Oftentimes you will need to use them in a backyard where the terrain can be difficult, especially when trying to carry a 200 pound machine. Look for a unit that has a wheeled base or use a wheelbarrow or cart to get the machine into a location where it's too difficult to drag or carry. 

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Best Vibratory Plate Compactors

When choosing the best vibratory plate compactor for your project there are a few things to consider. The two most important variances are the size of the vibration plate and the overall weight of the unit. A general rule is to use the biggest packer possible while keeping in mind the size of the area to be compacted and the access to the site. A packer with a large plate will pack faster and provide a more even finished product with the downside of being more difficult to maneuver and transport to the job site. 

Single Direction Vibratory Plate

Electric Vibratory Plate

Reversible Vibratory Plate

Remote Controlled Vibratory Plate

Vibratory Plate Compactor Specifications

Using the right packer whether it's purchasing a unit for your day to day business operations or for a one time rental, is important. We're going to take a look at the major differences between units so you can make an informed decision the next time you choose a packer. A high quality packer should get almost any sized job completed and if you're investing in one, it should last many years with proper maintenance. 

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Vibrating Plate Compactor Alternatives

When it comes to installing artificial grass you may not always be able to use a plate compactor for the base prep. This could be due to limiting factors like accessibility or the job is a small one and it just doesn't make sense to haul a machine to the site. There are some alternatives to using a plate compactor that will get the job done but it will take a little elbow grease, patience and the knowledge to achieve the same result. 

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Vibratory Hammer vs Vibratory Plate Compactor

There are a few differences between a vibratory jumping jack and vibratory plate compactor. The biggest is that a jack hammer is designed for maximum compaction depth and won't create a smooth finished surface. It's ideal for compacting after excavation beyond one foot depth whereas a plate compactor is better at surface compaction and creating a workable finished product. In most artificial grass applications you won't need to use a landscape tamping rammer as you aren't excavating beyond 6 inches depth.  

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Disclaimer

Duralawn® artificial grass installations, products and service in Kelowna, Vernon, Penticton, etc since 2018.