CAT CLASS: HQ-10044

16-20 in Forward Plate Compactor

The 16-20 in forward plate compactor is the workhorse of single-operator granular compaction, sized for driveways, sidewalks, and light commercial base work. With plate widths of 450–500 mm and operating weights of 72–350 kg, this class balances productivity and portability for all-day use on granular soil and aggregate. It sits between the lighter Up to 16 in models and the heavier 20+ in plates designed for deeper lifts and cohesive soils.

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Pick a size class — capacity and reach differ across the range.

Key specifications

Specification	Typical range	What it means
Plate width	17.7–19.7 in (450–500 mm)	The compaction footprint, determining coverage per pass and maneuverability in confined spaces.
Operating weight	159–772 lb (72–350 kg)	Heavier units deliver greater compaction depth and density on granular materials.
Compaction force	12–50 kN	The dynamic force applied to the soil surface, governing lift thickness and material suitability.
Engine power	1.8–7.0 hp	Gasoline engines in this range sustain vibration under load throughout the duty cycle.
Vibration frequency	70–100 Hz	Higher frequencies improve efficiency on clean granular fill; lower frequencies suit mixed soils.

How to choose

This 16-20 in class is appropriate for single-operator compaction of granular base and sand in confined to medium-width areas—residential driveways, sidewalks, trenches, and utility backfill. When the application involves very tight quarters, narrow trenches, or frequent lifting over obstacles, the Up to 16 in Forward Plate Compactor offers easier handling and lower transport weight. For deeper lifts, cohesive soils, orширок commercial slabs where productivity outweighs portability, the 20+ in Forward Plate Compactor provides the necessary weight and force.

What this size handles

Compacting granular base under residential driveways and garage slabs
Sidewalk and pathway sub-base preparation
Utility trench backfill over bedding stone
Paver patio and retaining wall base compaction
Light commercial parking lot base in confined sections
Granular fill around foundation perimeters

Safety & operation

Hand-arm vibration exposure accumulates quickly; operators should follow manufacturer duty-cycle guidelines and wear anti-vibration gloves
Forward travel is controlled by throttle and plate engagement; disengaging the clutch stops forward motion
Plate surface temperatures rise during operation; avoid contact and allow cool-down before transport or servicing
Hearing protection is necessary; sound levels typically exceed 90 dBA at the operator position

Transport & logistics

Units under 150 kg are often hand-loaded into pickup beds or small equipment trailers
Heavier models in the range require ramps or mechanical lift assistance for vehicle loading
Most units fit within standard 5×8 ft utility trailers without special towing equipment

Power & supply

Gasoline engines require on-site fuel supply; typical consumption is 0.5–1.5 L/hr under continuous operation
Four-stroke engines need periodic oil checks and air filter maintenance during extended shifts
No external electrical supply is required; recoil or electric start ignition

Frequently asked

What lift thickness can a 16-20 in forward plate compact?

On clean granular fill, this class typically achieves specified density in 150–200 mm lifts. Heavier models within the range may handle up to 250 mm depending on material and compaction force.

Can this size compact cohesive soils?

Forward plates are optimized for granular materials. Cohesive clay and silt generally require vibratory rammers or reversible plates; the unidirectional design and vibration characteristics of forward plates are less effective on cohesive soils.

How does operating weight affect compaction performance?

Greater weight increases the depth of influence and density achieved per pass. A 150 kg unit suits shallow lifts and maintenance work, while a 300+ kg model is appropriate for structural base courses requiring higher bearing capacity.

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Normalised to the same units. A dash means the figure was not published.

Model	Operating weight	Engine power
Ammann APF 12/50	159 lb (72 kg)	3 hp
Ammann APF 20/50	194 lb (88 kg)	4 hp
Ammann eAPF 12/50	205 lb (93 kg)	2 hp
Bomag BP 20/45	203 lb (92 kg)	5 hp
Ammann APH 50/75	772 lb (350 kg)	9 hp
Bomag BP 12/50	161 lb (73 kg)	3 hp