Building a vibrating plate compactor

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on building a vibrating plate compactor using a 13 HP Honsa engine and scrap steel. Key considerations include the design of the exciter/vibrator, specifically the use of two pillow block bearings and a pulley system with an offset weight. It is crucial to prevent vibration from affecting the engine and the output shaft to avoid mechanical failure. Participants suggest using two Vee belts with a floating 90° elbow to connect the engine to the vibrating eccentric, ensuring stability during operation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mechanical engineering principles related to vibration and balance.
  • Familiarity with engine mounting techniques to minimize vibration.
  • Knowledge of belt drive systems, specifically Vee belts and pulleys.
  • Basic skills in sketching or using design software for mechanical concepts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and function of vibrating plate compactors.
  • Learn about the principles of vibration isolation and engine mounting.
  • Explore the use of CAD software for creating mechanical sketches.
  • Investigate the selection and calculation of eccentric weights for vibration generation.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for DIY enthusiasts, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in building or improving construction equipment, specifically vibrating plate compactors.

stryped
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Thinking of building a vibrating compactor to compact dirt and gravel for a new driveway section. I already have a horizontal shaft 13 horse honsa engine. I have some scrap steel. My question is concerning the exiter/vibrator. I was thinking of mounting 2 pillow block bearings with a pipe. A pulley to spin it, and some sort of weight offset on the shaft. Would would be the best weight to use and how do i determine the ideal amount? Any advice on this project is greatly appreciated!
 
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It is important that you do not vibrate the engine or it will fall apart, I have seen it done. It is also important that you do not apply vibration to the output shaft as that will overload the bearings, I have also seen that done.

If you can use two Vee belts with a floating approximate 90° elbow to couple the static engine to the vibrating eccentric you should not have problems. You just have to work out how, or on what, to mount the engine so it does not vibrate. 13 HP is a lot of vibration. Do you need the massage?

Maybe a sketch of your concept would help.
 
Baluncore said:
It is important that you do not vibrate the engine or it will fall apart, I have seen it done. It is also important that you do not apply vibration to the output shaft as that will overload the bearings, I have also seen that done.

If you can use two Vee belts with a floating approximate 90° elbow to couple the static engine to the vibrating eccentric you should not have problems. You just have to work out how, or on what, to mount the engine so it does not vibrate. 13 HP is a lot of vibration. Do you need the massage?

Maybe a sketch of your concept would help.
Good idea. Any idea what i could use to sketch my idea so as to attach it here? I am noy much of a drawer...
 
Looking at the below parts diagram may give you some help understanding what is involved i a compactor design.

https://www.jackssmallengines.com/jacks-parts-lookup/manufacturer/green-machine/homelite/miscellaneous/hcp80-plate-compactor-ut-06042/eccentric
 

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