What is a plate compactor?

Plate compactor is a light construction equipment used for compacting soil, asphalt, gravel, and other materials and is usually divided into forward plate compactor, reversible plate compactor, and asphalt plate compactor.

The principle of the plate compactor is to use a large metal plate connected to the engine to compress the material below through high-frequency vibration(5000 times/min), and the Compacting depth can reach 30cm. Horizont Machinery offers plate compactors in a variety of sizes, including oversized base plates as an option.

Plate compactors are used for laying and compacting paving stones and other hardscape surfaces, as well as for compacting soil and other loose materials. They are also commonly used in landscaping and gardening projects, such as backfilling ditches. Plate compactors come in a variety of sizes and power levels and can be petrol or diesel-powered.

Type of Vibratory Plate Compactors

Elevate your construction and infrastructure projects with Horizont Machinery's line-up of exceptional compactors. Here's what we offer:

• Horizont forward Plate Compactor or Vibratory Plate Compactor

Designed for precision, this compactor operates exclusively in a forward direction, leveraging high frequencies and low amplitude to expertly compact thin layers of sand and gravel.

•  Horizont Reversible Plate Compactor

Why settle for one direction when you can have both? Ideal for granular and mixed soils, our reversible plate compactor offers the versatility your projects demand.

• Horizont Asphalt Plate Compactor

When it comes to asphalt repair for parking lots and roads, asphalt vibrating compactors are the go-to choice in our extensive equipment arsenal at Horizont Machinery, Inc. Engineered for peak performance, these machines deliver the precision and durability your projects demand.

Horizont's Vibratory Plate Compactor Characteristics

• Engine power(HP)

This engine boasts a power output of 5.5HP and offers the flexibility of either a HONDA or LONCIN make, running on your choice of Gasoline or Diesel.

• Depth of Compaction

Expect 20 cm to 60 cm compaction depth, tailored to compactor size and soil type.

• Application Versatility

Ideal for embankments, base courses, sub-base courses, asphalt and Dirt Gravel Soil.

• Weight and Output

Bigger is better—more weight and size mean excellent compaction and high area output.

How deep does a Vibratory plate compactor compact?

Plate compactors are an essential tool in many construction projects. It compacts soil, gravel, and asphalt to create a stable foundation for buildings and roads.

Compaction force varies based on soil type, material, and layer thickness. Machines are rated in pounds for both impact and centrifugal force. Higher force ensures deeper soil penetration. Typically, 1,000 pounds of force compacts 1 inch of material.

Typically, a plate compactor can compact the soil to a depth of 20-30cm. Our reversible Plate Compactor compacts soil up to 60cm. This depth is sufficient to provide a solid foundation for most construction projects.

Horizont's Vibratory Plate Compactors: Project Applications from Small to Large

• Landscaping

          From retaining walls to garden paths, our compactors lay the groundwork for beauty.

• Cobblestone Patios

          Create charming outdoor spaces with precision compaction.

• Driveways and Sidewalks

          Our machines pave the way for robust driveways and sidewalks.

• Building Foundations

          Trust Horizont Machinery for foundational work that stands the test of time.

• Road Repairs

          Revitalize roadways with compactors designed for maximal efficacy.

Spec Considerations:Job size correlates with compaction force. Check specs to select the right machine for your needs.

What Size Vibratory Plate Compactor Do You Need? 

When in the market for a plate compactor, there are critical questions to ponder that go beyond mere aesthetics and price:

• Material Matters: What will you compact? The substrate dictates whether a vibratory plate compactor or vibrating plate compactor is ideal.
• Weighing In: How much force is needed? Know the weight specs for effective compaction.
• Coverage Concerns: What's the coverage? Size matters in choosing the right plate compactor.
• Power Preferences: Gas or electric? Your project's efficiency and eco-footprint depend on it.

Plate Size:

The size of the plate compactor you need depends on the size of your project and the materials you are working with.For small residential projects, smaller plates usually work well. Such as our HAFP60BM, HAFP90BM, HVN60, HVN90 plate compactors.For larger commercial projects, larger plates may be required. For example, in our HPC60, HPC90, HPC120, and HRP330H, HRP330D reversible plate compactor, the plate size is 88*68cm.If you are not sure what size plate compactor you need, please contact us and we can advise on the best size for your project.

Centrifugal Force:
Far from mere scientific lingo, it's the linchpin of compaction efficacy. Our compact series provides robust force for moderate-depth applications. For those requiring more substantial depth capabilities, our heavy-duty units are engineered to deliver significantly greater force.

Vibrating Frequency:

Higher frequency equals better compaction, especially for materials like asphalt. Choose from our range of frequencies to match your job specs.

How to Operate a  Vibratory Plate Compactor?

To use a plate compactor, you must first distinguish the material that needs to be compacted. If you need to compact asphalt, you need to use an asphalt plate compactor; if you want to compact soil or pavers, use an ordinary forward plate.

• Protective Gear:

Safety first. We recommend gloves, goggles, steel-toe boots, and long pants.

• Engine Start-Up:

Set throttle to idle before igniting. Our compactors will vibrate upon engine start—no need for full throttle.

• Engine Shut-Down:

Ease the throttle back to idle before turning the engine off.

• Site Preparation:

For best results, make sure the site is graded and leveled before the action starts.

• Paver Protection:

Use rubber pad attachments, to prevent paver damage.

• Surface Moistening:

A light water spray enhances compaction. Our HFP120W model has a convenient water tank attachment for this very purpose.

• Directional Motion:

Forward-only compactors like the HRP330H feature a versatile handle to switch travel directions. Models like HRP330H/330D, HRP160 are reversible, controlled hydraulically via the handle.