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QLT Marshalltown Compaction Equipment

Plate Compactors

Plate Compactors

Soil compaction is almost always required at a building site or construction project, and Northern Tool + Equipment has the compaction machinery and accessories to get the job done. Shop everything from tampers and asphalt shoes to rollers and plate compactors from industry-leading brands including Wacker Neuson, NorthStar, and Marshalltown, among others.

To determine which piece of compaction equipment is best for the job, you will first want to assess the soil. Soil can be described as either granular or cohesive. Moisture drains easily through granular soils due to its loose, course structure. Examples include sand or gravel. Granular soil is best compacted with the use of vibration. Cohesive soils, such as silt or clay, are identified by their small, smooth particles and wet, moldable texture. Force is the best compaction method for cohesive soils, which can be achieved with the use of a trench roller or rammer.

In addition to the machines themselves, we offer a variety of compactor accessories, trench roller accessories, vibratory plate accessories, and more.

Plate Compactors Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a plate compactor and how does it work?
A plate compactor is a powerful construction tool that combines a heavy plate and rapid impacts to compact sand, soil and gravel to achieve a solid, stable subsurface. Plate compactors are also used to compact asphalt. They are commonly used in construction applications, landscaping and paver projects and more.
What are the different types of plate compactors available?
Plate compactors are available in single-plate (also called forward), reversible and heavy-duty models. Single-plate (forward) compactors move in one direction only, making them suitable for smaller projects. Reversible plate compactors move forward and reverse, allowing you to cover more ground more quickly. Heavy-duty plate compactors are designed for applications requiring maximum force and deeper compaction.
Can a plate compactor be used on different types of soil and surfaces?
Yes, a plate compactor works on a variety of surfaces, including sand, soil, gravel, pavers and asphalt.
What factors should be considered when selecting a plate compactor?
Besides considering the compactor type (single/forward, reversible and heavy-duty), the compactor you choose depends on the type of material you will be using it for and the size of the area you will be covering. In addition, these are helpful considerations:
  • Plate material: Generally steel, which is lighter in weight, or cast iron, which may provide greater compaction
  • Plate size: Larger plates cover more area to finish jobs quicker
  • Plate shape: Curved plates make turning easier without digging into surface
  • Vibration force: The greater the force, the greater the compaction
  • Vibrations per minute: Represents the frequency of impacts per minute
  • Anti-vibration handle: Provides greater comfort for operator
  • Water tank capabilities: Helpful for asphalt jobs to prevent sticking
What are the safety precautions I should follow while operating a plate compactor?
Read operating instructions and familiarize yourself with all plate compactor features before beginning. Dress appropriately, including steel-toed boots, dust mask, safety goggles, work gloves and ear protection. Adjust handlebars to a comfortable position. Maintain proper body posture while operating. Keep hands, feet and clothing away from moving parts of the compactor. Allow compactor to travel at its own speed—do not force. Allow machine to cool before refueling.