Are All Wacker Plates Created Equal?

[Triassic]

I've got to start the landscaping soon and need to compact the areas of the patio and various paths and driveway. I'll need a wacker to consolidate the rubble / hardcore layers. Are all wackers equal or should I be looking at a particular weight/make ?

[ProDave]

No they are not all equal.  My little petrol one that I can (just about) pick up on my own is nothing compared to say the big diesel ones.

 

For me it was a case of buy what came up for sale locally, or (in this instance) near a route I was travelling to get somewhere else so I did not have the luxury of choice.  I found not many for sale so unless you are buying new, you might also find limited choice.

[mike2016]

Rented a few for my patio & driveway. Mostly went with same unit, had it delivered and picked up. Fixed handle so wouldn't fit in my car. They did have a smaller one with collapsible handle but it was too light I thought. I did rent a heavier diesel one once. All the ones I've talked about are pull start. The Diesel one was horrendous. Was shown how to start it but after the guy left spent 30 minutes trying and pulling my shoulder every time the pull cord pulled back, gave up and returned it!! So get one you can handle comfortably. There are roller ones but these are overkill unless it's a long driveway.  

My preferred one was a 18"/24" petrol compactor. Have a drive around to your local hire place and get a look at the models. Weekend rates, especially over a bank holiday might be very economical if you're ready to use it. (Rent for a Saturday, then ring in @ 4pm saying you're finished and the fee stops apparently, pick up Monday) Pavingexpert.com has some more info on types / weights:

https://www.pavingexpert.com/subbase

See "how much compaction" for a good read...

[SteamyTea]

Is there not a plate surface area to total mass, minus the plate and mechanism mass, ratio that sets the performance?

The number of impulses a minute should not affect the compacting performance, just the time it takes to cover an area.

[Radian]

From PE.com: 'Compaction To Refusal', the point at which the aggregate simply won't compact any further. 

I like that. Feels like that point you reach, then tell SWMBO to f.off