Single Direction Vibratory Plates

A forward plate compactor (a plate that travels forward only) usually weighs 50–130 kg and compacts layers of 15–30 cm — it is light, cheap and fast on block paving and thin sub-bases. A reversible plate compactor works forward and backward, weighs from 130 to 800 kg and reaches into 30–60 cm layers, so it is used for thick road sub-bases and cohesive soils. A forward model is turned around by hand, while a reversible one changes direction with a lever.

A forward plate compactor is at its best when laying block paving, footpaths and edging strips, and when compacting thin granular sub-bases and backfill around kerbs. A weight of 50–130 kg and a centrifugal force of 12–20 kN let it tamp a 15–30 cm layer in a few passes; a protective mat is used on the plate for paving. Thicker layers and cohesive soils are better handled by a reversible plate compactor, and narrow trenches by a rammer.

For laying block paving itself, a plate weighing 50–90 kg with a centrifugal force of 12–18 kN is the usual choice — it is effective enough while not crushing the blocks. The key part is the polyurethane mat (pad) on the plate, which protects the surface from scratches. Heavier plates above 100 kg are better kept for compacting the sub-base beneath the paving rather than the surface itself.

The price of a forward plate compactor depends on weight, drive and brand. The lowest bracket covers light paving plates weighing 50–75 kg; electric and battery models (for example the Wacker Neuson AP 1850 e) and heavier petrol units of 90–130 kg cost correspondingly more. Current prices for Wacker Neuson, Altrad Belle and Husqvarna models are shown on the product pages; we ship orders online.

Compacting a granular sub-base under block paving usually calls for a centrifugal force of 15–20 kN on a machine of 75–100 kg, which tamps a 15–25 cm layer in several passes. Thinner levelling layers are finished with a 12–15 kN plate, while thicker road sub-bases already need 25 kN and more — at that point you move up to a reversible plate compactor.

A petrol plate compactor with a Honda GX or Hatz engine runs continuously without recharging and delivers high force on open sites, but it emits exhaust and noise. An electric or battery plate compactor, such as the Wacker Neuson AP 1850 e or the Altrad Belle PCEL 400 E, produces no exhaust and runs more quietly, which lets it compact in halls, tunnels and garages. The battery version gives cable-free freedom at a weight close to petrol units — usually 90–130 kg.

A forward plate effectively compacts a granular layer 15–30 cm thick, depending on weight and force — a light 50–75 kg plate copes with about 15 cm, while a heavier 100–130 kg one reaches up to 30 cm. Ground is best laid and compacted in stages of 10–15 cm, with 3–4 passes over each layer. Layers thicker than 30 cm and cohesive soils (clays and silts) call for a reversible plate compactor.

For laying block paving a mat (pad) on the plate is practically essential. It is a flexible polyurethane or rubber lining a few to a dozen or so millimetres thick, fitted to the underside of the plate, which protects the blocks from scratching, edge chipping and spalling. Without a mat, even a light 50–75 kg plate can damage the surface of the blocks. The mat is matched to the plate width of the given model.

Servicing covers two systems: the engine and the exciter. In a Honda GX petrol engine the oil is usually changed after the first 20 hours of running-in, then every 100 hours or once a season (typically an SAE 10W-30 grade). The oil in the exciter (eccentric) is changed less often, roughly every 200–300 hours. Before every job you check the oil level, the condition of the plate and the tension of the V-belt.

Wacker Neuson offers the widest range in this segment — from light paving plates to electric models such as the AP 1850 e — and is valued for durability and parts availability. Altrad Belle (the PCLX and PCEL lines) gives a good price-to-quality ratio and a strong line-up of electric models. Husqvarna Construction focuses on ergonomics and low vibration at the handle. The choice depends on the type of work and the drive; we service all these brands.