Portable Concrete Vibrator Rods are a powerful tool for dispelling air bubbles in concrete. When used correctly, these devices can make concrete stronger, more durable and smoother than ever before.
If you need to remove air bubbles from a poured concrete slab, using a portable concrete vibrator is the most effective way to accomplish this task. These machines work by vigorously shaking a freshly poured slab of concrete, which can break up and dissolve air bubbles that could weaken the structure.
A portable concrete vibrator consists of an electrical motor and a flexible hose that is attached to the end of a long, tube-shaped steel enclosure with a rounded tip, called a rod. The rod moves in an elliptical pattern at high frequency, causing vibration.
Some portable vibrators are designed with handles, making them easier to hold and control while pounding concrete. They are especially suited for DIY projects and small construction sites.
The most common type of portable concrete vibrator is an immersion-type, which gets immersed into the concrete at various locations, consolidating it locally. These units are generally more expensive than pencil-style vibrators, which tend to be less portable and have limited reach.
During the consolidation process, you'll need to determine how deep and how far down you want to insert the vibrator. This will vary based on the size and type of your pour, as well as how much time you have available. It's also important to consider how fast you can withdraw the vibrator after it's inserted to ensure that the bubbles are completely dissolved and that you prevent cold joints from developing between old and new layers.
Rebar Shakers
Rebar shakers are a popular portable concrete vibrator for large, reinforced concrete pours. These tools tie a vibrating unit to the tops of reinforcing rebar, shaking them to help minimize pouring time and improve concrete consolidation.
Poker-style immersion vibrators are another popular choice for larger, reinforced concrete pours. These types of vibrators are inserted into the concrete and withdrawn at a slower pace than rebar shakers. However, they can be used for deeper concrete and can even be tied to the bottom of rebar.
Formwork vibrators are another option for precast concrete. They are mounted to the outside of concrete forms and are usually spaced 6 feet apart, depending on the thickness and workability of the concrete being poured.
Whether you're working on an on-site or precast concrete project, choosing the right vibrator is crucial to the quality of your final product. Several factors come into play, including the power, frequency, and size of the vibrators you need.