Vibratory rammers, i.e. "Jumpers" or "rammers" are well-recognized equipment of construction crews. Their task is to compact the soil mechanically. The engine in these devices transmits its power through the whipping system and the whipping foot, which generates shock force. In this way, the substrate is compacted. Rammers are most often used in construction, road and paving works, and wherever there is a need for strong soil compaction. The principle of operation seems to be very simple; however, in the case of the latest generation equipment, advanced drive and safety systems are behind everything.
OPERATIONAL MECHANICS OF vibratory rammer
Due to their dimensions and low weight, the jumpers will be perfect in hard to reach places. The process of compaction of the ground in the case of rammers is carried out through a vertical movement of the plate, with an average frequency of 500-800 beats per minute. Most compactors of this type are equipped with an internal combustion engine, the drive shaft of which is connected to the foot by a centrifugal clutch. As a result, the device transmits vibration only at higher engine speeds. The vibratory plates for more massive tasks are equipped with less popular diesel engines, which are characterized by less combustion and longer life. Unfortunately, they are also more extensive, and thus more challenging to drive.
APPLICATION OF vibratory rammer
The small surface of the working plate means that the "jumper" is perfect for compacting small areas and in hard-to-reach places, and can be easily transported. Alloy compactors will be the optimal solution for less demanding construction works, such as preparing the ground for pipelines, ditches or trenches.
CHOICE OF rammer
When buying an vibratory rammer, it is worth paying attention to some of its parameters. The width of the vibrating foot (usually up to 280 mm) will be quite significant, which should depend on the target surface and depth of compaction. Smaller compactors work well for compacting the ground for a low pavement, works on the construction of the sewage system or foundation excavations. The small size of the vibrating foot allows the use of smaller and more economical gasoline engines. In the case of more extensive equipment, one must take into account higher expenses for their purchase and operation. For more demanding applications, more massive models powered by diesel engines are also available on the market. The higher weight of the compactor will cause that the ground will be better hardened in a shorter time. At the same time, the heavier the equipment, the more difficult it is to manoeuvre and transport.
You must also bear in mind the differences between two- and four-stroke engines. Less complicated two-stroke engines can work in any position. However, they require oil lubrication from the outside and emit more pollution. Four-stroke engines, in turn, are characterized by smaller and cleaner combustion. Unfortunately, jumpers with this engine have a limited range of tilt in which they can work (usually at a maximum angle of 20 °). Compactors with an electric drive are also available on the market, thanks to which work with them are entirely free of exhaust gases. Also, the electric motor requires no maintenance, and the battery allows about 30 minutes of uninterrupted operation.
Another parameter that is worth paying attention to is the frequency of strokes. The higher it is, the better the density in a single pass. The centrifugal force, which speaks about the energy transferred to the ground through the rammer's foot, also goes hand in hand. The larger, the thicker the substrate layer can be hardened. It is also worth mentioning such indicators as compaction depth and feed speed. They show the maximum depth of the ground that can be compacted and the speed of the compactor.
USE OF vibratory rammer
Operation of the device due to its construction and intended use should take place strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions. You should also pay attention to the safety of using the equipment. It is crucial to prepare the machine for operation. Due to the centrifugal clutch, the method of switching between low and high engine speeds is essential. This should be done as soon as possible because too slow engagement of the clutch can damage it or the spring.
Pay attention to the location of the machine during transport. It is best to transport it in the working position. However, if the situation requires lying down, make sure the carburettor is on top. The engine warm-up period is also essential. If the equipment has not been used before, wait about a minute before starting the actual work just before starting the engine. This will allow the oil to reach the right temperature and therefore, the right lubricating properties. The situation is similar when turning off the engine, which should cool down after working at high speed. Therefore, before turning it off, wait about 30 seconds and allow it to work at low rate. One should not forget about the mandatory servicing, which is specified by the equipment manufacturer. Incorrect operation of the device may result in severe defects or even cancellation of the guarantee protection.
COMPACTION EQUIPMENT
New compactors have various systems supporting the use of equipment. They directly affect safety, comfort and efficiency at work. One of the methods used in many compactors is the vibration damping system acting on the operator's arms (VAS). Thanks to it, the negative impact of vibration on the operator's body is reduced by 30-40%, and this translates into the possibility of longer work with the device.
Compactor manufacturers also use solutions that extend the life of mounted attachments. For internal combustion engines, advanced air filtration and oil level control systems are used. All this translates into higher equipment reliability and extended service intervals. An innovative solution for the two-stroke jumpers from the PLUS version from Wacker Neuson are separate fuel and oil tanks. So there is no need to prepare the mix in advance because the mixing process takes place automatically. When buying a rammer, it's worth choosing new transport wheels that make it easier to move, load and unload the machine.
