Did you know that the total generation of municipal solid waste in 2017 was 267.8 million tons? Are you looking to cut down on the waste your company produces?
In this article, you’ll discover what a compactor is. You’ll also learn how to choose the right one. Read on to find out why it’s so crucial to have in your business, and how it’s so beneficial.
What Is a Compactor?
A commercial, construction, or industrial compactor is a machine that collects waste into a container. Operators first place the waste at ground level from a loading dock into a chute on the machine. The waste builds up inside the container until the operator does a compaction cycle.
A compaction cycle is where a platen which is attached to a hydraulic ram pushes the waste into the one end of the container. This waste is then crushed and smaller in size.
You can also choose from road compactors, soil compactors, and earth compactors. Earth compactors are popular in industrial construction zones.
Soil Compactors
The soil has four components: granular rocks, minerals, air, and water. Soil compactors work by kneading, vibrating, or compressing soil to increase density and remove air pockets. It’s vital that soil compactors are appropriately used because they can cause severe or fatal injuries. Always ensure you’re using proper operating instructions and receive hands-on training for the soil compactors you utilize.
Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedules and inspect equipment before using your compactor. Always use guards on pinch points and moving parts. Have backup alarms, so pedestrians are aware of the compactor moving.
Without using soil compaction, you can have pipe leakage, breaks, slab cracks, and foundation erosion. If you use a soil compactor for extended use, you’re more likely to have vibration syndrome. This causes damages to nerves and finger circulation.
Symptoms of this include blanching, pain, and numbness. Read instructions for vibration level ratings and maximum use. Always have a straight back and proper posture while using a soil compactor.
Road Compactors
A roller-compactor, also known as a road roller, is used to compact asphalt, concrete, gravel, or soil. It’s used in the construction of foundations and roads.
Pneumatic Rollers
Pneumatic rollers have rubber tires. They’re used for the compaction of coarse-grained soil, such as in sub-grade pavement projects. Rollers use the weight of the vehicle to compress the surface. The flexibility of pneumatic tyes allows the roller to operate on uneven ground.
Vibrating Plate Compactor
It’s used to compress different types of gravel and soil. They use a heavy steel plate at the base and resembles a mower.
Plate Compactor
A plate compactor is best used for creating a level grade. A jumping jack compactor has a smaller foot. The jumping jack compactor is mainly used to compact backfill in trenches for gas supply pipes or water.
Determining What a Compactor Is
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