Plate Compactors

Plate compactors are a staple on New Zealand construction sites, used wherever a stable, well-compacted sub-base is required before laying concrete, asphalt, or pavers. Their high-frequency vibration drives out air voids and consolidates granular material to a consistent density that hand tamping cannot achieve.

Types of Plate Compactors

Forward plate compactors are the most common type, suited to flat or gently sloping surfaces. Reversible plate compactors add reverse travel, making them more effective in trenches and confined areas. Combination compactors pair a vibrating plate with a rammer action for cohesive soils such as clay-heavy fills common in some NZ regions.

Uses of Plate Compactors

Typical applications include sub-base preparation for driveways, footpaths, and concrete slabs; compaction of backfill around drainage and retaining structures; and bedding layers beneath block paving and interlocking pavers.

Specifications to Consider

Key specs include plate width (mm), centrifugal compaction force (kN), operating weight (kg), and vibration frequency (Hz). Heavier machines with higher centrifugal force penetrate deeper — important for granular sub-bases exceeding 150mm compacted depth.