Overview
ISO 19433:2008 defines terminology and commercial specifications for pedestrian-controlled vibratory plates (plate compactors) used in building construction. Applicable to both forward- and reversible-type plates, the standard covers machines intended for mechanical compaction of disturbed soil, sand or aggregates for load-bearing layers in new construction and repair work. It standardizes names, key components and the product information manufacturers should supply.
Key topics and requirements
- Terminology: Clear definitions for components such as prime mover, transmission, base plate, vibrator shaft, vibrator mechanism, eccentric mass, eccentric radius, eccentric moment, centrifugal force and operating mass.
- Machine types: Distinction between forward-type (one-direction travel) and reversible-type (forward and reverse).
- Commercial specification data manufacturers must provide:
- Model, manufacturer, serial number
- Prime mover type (internal combustion, electric, pneumatic) and engine/motor data
- Operating mass and shipping mass
- Base plate size (W × L) and overall dimensions (L, W, H)
- Centrifugal force (kN) and vibration frequency (Hz)
- Maximum travel speed (forward/reverse, m/min)
- Ancillary details: water tank capacity (for asphalt), optional expander mass, fuel tank, etc.
- Prime mover specifics:
- Internal combustion: engine type, swept capacity, operating rpm, net power (kW), fuel type and tank capacity
- Electric: rated current, voltage/phase/frequency, max rpm
- Pneumatic: supply pressure, air consumption, cycle rate
- Performance calculation: Annex A provides the method to calculate centrifugal force from eccentric mass, eccentric radius and shaft speed - key for assessing compaction force.
- Machine drawings and dimensions: standardized figure references for plate layout and handle positions.
Applications and users
ISO 19433 is practically useful for:
- Manufacturers of vibratory plates to produce consistent product data and technical sheets
- Procurement and specifiers in construction, rental fleets and public works creating clear purchasing requirements
- Site engineers and contractors selecting plate compactors for soil, sand or asphalt compaction tasks
- Maintenance and safety teams needing standardized terminology and component identification
- Equipment resellers and rental companies preparing product descriptions and compliance documentation
Related standards
- LEMB Standard No. 2 (rating method for hand-guided vibratory plates)
- EN 500-1 and EN 500-4 (mobile road construction machinery safety requirements)
- Prepared by ISO/TC 195 (Building construction machinery and equipment)
This standard helps ensure uniform product information, safer selection and predictable performance when specifying or using pedestrian-controlled plate compactors.