A building engineer is respected by the quality of work he does, one of such works is concrete vibrating. This is why as a building engineer its necessary you own a good concrete vibrator, as it will improve the quality of vibrating concrete. In this guide, we would be reviewing the best concrete vibrators. If you are interested in getting one, you should read through this guide.
What are the concrete vibrators used for?
Concrete vibrators are of many types, but do you exactly know their use? Hundreds or even thousands of air bubbles are trapped when concrete is poured, which may substantially weaken the concrete.
To remove these air bubbles, concrete vibrators are used. The vibrators will remove the bubbles by vibrating or shaking the concrete that is freshly poured with a mechanical vibrator. While dealing with ordinary portland cement for the concrete, it is advisable to use a dust mask, as it will guide against dust from the ordinary portland cement entering into your nose.
Different Types of Concrete Vibrators
The three ways of using concrete vibrators are:
Formwork Vibration
To the exterior of the framework, an external electric concrete vibrator is mounted. For precast works, it is recommended that the external form vibrators are placed 6 inches apart.
Surface Vibration
Jumpers or large vibrators are manually put onto the poured surface. When the slab is more than 6 inches, the consolidation process is not useful as it is limited by the depth of the pour. However, these are useful when surface finish is required as they provide a smoother surface.
Internal Vibration
These are the most commonly used concrete vibrators. These are easy to operate as they can be handled by a single operator. There is the ease of operation as the worker can quickly put the internal vibrator in the fresh concrete and then slowly withdraw it.
A concrete vibrator is larger in size than a draw knife. Hence a concrete vibrator con not be placed with a magnetic tool holder.
CONCRETE VIBRATOR BUYER’S GUIDE
Since a concrete vibrator and a leaf shredder are different tools, their buyer’s guide would also be different, itis important to note that of the leaf shredder too, as it’s an important tool
Vibrations Speed
The vibration speed of any concrete vibrator is the first thing you should check before buying one. This is due to the reason that it is an easy way to easily distinguish between the various models available out there. As per its name, it is there to simply tell you about the speed at which a given concrete vibrator is vibrating.
You can usually find the vibration speed of different models mentioned in vibrations per minute or VPM. While most of the models out there offer a rating of 13000 VPM, some slightly better options offer a vibration speed of 14000 VPM.
When compared with each other, the latter model offers slightly better performance to the user in terms of removing air from concrete.
Power Source
Usually, these concrete vibrators get used for different kinds of applications in different kinds of locations. As a result, different models use different kinds of power sources for powering the electric motor inside them that is a key part of a given concrete vibrator.
Most of the options available out there use the power from a power socket for powering their electric motors.
Such corded models are usually cheaper and offer a long power cord for plugging them into power sockets that are far away. On the other hand, some expensive models use battery power for powering the electric motor inside them.
As you would expect, such models can be easily used on the go. They are also quite easy to use since you do not get tethered by any power cord. However, you run into battery life issues while buying a concrete vibrator that is powered by a battery system.
The power source is not a consideration when getting a coping saw since coping saws operate manually.
Power Rating
Whether you are buying a corded concrete vibrator or a cordless one, its power rating is quite essential to check. It is another factor apart from the vibration speed that tells you about the performance of a given concrete vibrator.
While a corded concrete vibrator will have its power is given in HP, cordless and battery-powered models have it mentioned in volts.
This includes options like ¾ HP or 1 HP and 18 volt or 20-volt options. In both of these cases, the higher power rating naturally results in better performance. Although the difference between these numbers is not that high and is visible in real-life usage.
Size and Form Factor
You should also check the size and form factor of a given concrete vibrator before buying it for your construction needs. This is especially true if you are looking for a model to be used on remote sites for portable usage. Before buying an air hammer, you should also put the size and form factor into consideration, as this tool is expected to fit perfectly in the hand, just like the concrete vibrator.
As you would expect, any corded or cordless concrete vibrator that is small and compact can be easily taken to any place.
It is possible because of the smaller size that makes it easier for storing it in your toolkit. You can also handle such small tools quite easily while working with concrete and cement.
Just like the size, you should also check the weight of a given concrete vibrator. Any lightweight model can be used for a long period without running into any arm strain issues down the road.
Build Quality and Warranty
Another factor that should be considered before buying any kind of power tool is its build quality. It is essential as it tells about the time for which you can use a given concrete vibrator without running into any wear and tear issues.
Apart from having a good build quality, you should also consider concrete vibrators with a long warranty period.
While most options out there offer a 1-year long warranty, some other better options come with a 3-year long warranty for peace of mind. You can easily rely on such options without facing many issues later on.
BEST CONCRETE VIBRATORS
| NAMES | FEATURES | WHERE TO BUY |
| Makita XRV02T Cordless Concrete Vibrator
|
Makita-built motor delivers 12,500 VPM to help increase the strength of concrete
Up to 41 minute run-time under load with 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah battery Compact and ergonomic design at only 105-1/2″ long Weighs only 11.4 lbs. with battery for reduced operator fatigue |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| DEWALT DCE531M1 20V MAX Pencil Vibrator Kit
|
1 – 1/8″ diameter vibrator delivers maximum consolidation power.
4-foot long flexible shaft for easy use and long reach. 14,000 VPM (under load) delivers maximum consolidation efficiency. |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Chicago Electric Concrete Vibrator
|
Lightweight and compact design for all-day use
13,000 vibrations per minute |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| GlobMarble Concrete Vibrator
|
Concrete Vibrating Motors
Concrete Vibrator for Concrete Vibrating Table Heat resistant to temperatures of up to 180 |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| XtremepowerUS 2200W Hand Held Electric Concrete Vibrator
|
Rated Power: 2200W
HorsePower: 2 Voltage: 110/60hz Shaft Diameter: 1-3/8″ (35mm) Shaft Length: 4.5ft |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| TOMAHAWK Concrete Vibrator
|
Faster consolidation with speeds of 12,000 -14,000 VPM
Ensures longevity and soft sedimentation Excellent for “zero” slump concrete applications Maintains optimum frequency under most slump conditions Hassle-free transportability for projects with limited access |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| OSLAMP Hand Held Electric Concrete Vibrator
|
Immerse the head of this concrete vibrator into wet concrete to release any trapped air and excess water to allow the concrete to settle within the formwork properly and solidly.
The vibrator is lightweight to allow for less fatigue and vibrating head gains speeds up to 16,000 RPMs to get the job done quickly. Lightweight and easy to use. Easy access to brush cover. |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Oztec Electric Concrete Vibrator
|
Motors are manufactured to exacting specifications to withstand the rough day to day abuses
Runs vibrator heads 11,000 to 12,000 vpm 25 HP Electric motor draws 9 amps Oztec units meet all United States OSHA and Canadian safety standards |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Oztec 2.4 OZ Electric Concrete Vibrator
|
Horsepower: 2-1/4
Amps:17 Max Steel Head: 2″ Max Rubber Head: N/A |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Makita XRV01Z LXT Lithium-Ion Concrete Vibrator
|
Strong battery
Durable build quality The ergonomic grip that can function either vertically or horizontally Customers love it |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
Makita XRV02T Cordless Concrete Vibrator
The Makita 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 8 Ft. Concrete Vibrator Kit (model XRV02T) delivers more run time with maximum vibrations per minute (VPM) for strengthening concrete when running a corded tool is not an option. The XRV02T weighs only 11.4 lbs. with battery, with high vibration and ergonomic features for top performance. The Makita-built motor delivers 12,500 VPM and up to 41 minutes run time under load using a fully-charged 18V LXT® 5.0Ah battery. The 8 Ft. shaft is 1” thick for more effective leveling and removal of air bubbles in concrete.
It’s part of Makita’s expanding 18V Lithium-Ion system, the world’s largest cordless tool system powered by 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries. Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger.
| PROS | CONS |
| The ergonomic grip that can function either vertically or horizontally | Does not last as long as a corded concrete vibrator |
| Customers love it | |
| Strong battery | |
| Durable build quality |
DEWALT DCE531M1 20V MAX Pencil Vibrator Kit
This concrete vibrator is a best seller. It is a truly lightweight vibrator – weighing 11 lbs. – that delivers high power with 14,000 VPM. It comes with a lithium-ion battery that allows for increased mobility over a corded vibrator. This is an ideal choice if you are undertaking projects such as minor street repair or filling insulated concrete forms. DEWALT is just as famous as Makita in the construction world, and customers report this product as living up to the DEWALT name.
| PROS | CONS |
| Comes with a 3-year limited warranty | Does not last as long as a corded option |
| Cordless – allows for mobility | |
| 14,000 VPM produces excellent quality work in less time than 13,000 VPM | |
| Durable build quality |
Chicago Electric Concrete Vibrator
Providing 13,000 VPM, this concrete vibrator provides enough power to get the job done well. With a shaft approaching a mere 2 ft. in length, it is not meant to big projects; however, it is a great choice for smaller projects. It is corded and features a lock-on button for extended use. It is one of the most affordable concrete vibrators in this post.
| PROS | CONS |
| Flexible shaft for swift changing | Inferior quality power switch |
| Affordable | |
| 1-3/8 inch diameter | |
| Powerful vibrations |
GlobMarble Concrete Vibrator
the GlobMarble Concrete Vibrator. It comes with loads of functional features that promote its performance and overall reliability during concrete works.
First, it has an IP65 protection feature that provides complete protection of the machine from external contaminants such as dust penetration, splash water, and other items that often get into a concrete builder when in use.
Second, it boasts heat-resistant vibrating motors that can withstand temperatures of up to 180°C. This, alongside its first feature, enables the machine to work continuously without downtimes or heat breaks.
Moreover, unlike other concrete vibrators of the same caliber, the GlobMarble Concrete Vibrator provides a long life service with minimal maintenance requirements. These cuts on costs yet ascertain reliability.
| PROS | CONS |
| Low maintenance requirements | No speed controller |
| Rugged and durable | Relatively heavy |
| Waterproof and external contact protection | |
| Versatile and reliable | |
| Very powerful |
XtremepowerUS 2200W Hand Held Electric Concrete Vibrator
XtremepowerUS Hand Held Concrete Vibrator with 1.5 m hose is a kind of professional construction tool machine, widely used in construction places. Easy to operate, the electric concrete vibrator is essential to construction use, ensuring the fastness of buildings. Vibrate pouring concrete to make it dense. It suits for both construction sites and home
| PROS | CONS |
| Ideal for cement pillar and grape rack pouring | Trigger switch tends to stick |
| Equipped with metal screw thread | |
| Rapidly eliminates air bubbles and water from the concrete | |
| Protects cement from penetrating the motor |
TOMAHAWK Concrete Vibrator
Tomahawk Concrete Vibrators are the ultimate way to quickly and efficiently surface air bubbles for concrete consolidation. Lightweight and compact, these vibrators are easy to hold for projects all day long!
| PROS | CONS |
| Maintains its optimal frequency | Expensive |
| 10 ft whip hose | |
| Fast concrete consolidation |
OSLAMP Hand Held Electric Concrete Vibrator
OSLAMP went with a very simple model and they did a really good job here. The quality they provide is staggering and the attention to detail is great. The unit is light, it also has poker and you can easily add the head of this unit into wet concrete to release the added water and trapped air.
| PROS | CONS |
| Speeds up to 16000 RPM | The casing isn’t very durable |
| Very light and dependable | |
| Includes its poker |
Oztec Electric Concrete Vibrator
If you want a very professional unit, the Oztec Electric Concrete Vibrator is right up there for you. The 1.25 HP electric motor is drawing 9 amps, the vibrator head will run up to 12000 VPM. They also have a flexible shaft and steelhead.
| PROS | CONS |
| Covers all safety standards | Expensive |
| Has a flexible shaft and steelhead | |
| Very durable and dependable |
Oztec 2.4 OZ Electric Concrete Vibrator
The Oztec 2.4 OZ Electric Concrete Vibrator is a portable product and one that can be easy to use and maintain. They did a very good job of keeping it small and portable. It can be turned on and off without issues, and thanks to its unique portability system it can work super nicely
| PROS | CONS |
| Easy to use | Expensive |
| High-quality encasing | |
| Seamless and light |
Makita XRV01Z LXT Lithium-Ion Concrete Vibrator
The Makita XRV02Z Concrete Vibrator is a well-balanced, innovative, and high quality cordless concrete vibrator. It measures only 39 x 24 x 6 inches and weighs 11.4lbs, making it among the lightest vibrators in the market.
Additionally, it is compact with an ergonomic design and produces 12,500 vibrations per minute, with a dual-direction switch that ascertains its consolidation ability. It is also powered by an 18-volt lithium-ion battery with a star symbol that proves it is durable and long-lasting
| PROS | CONS |
| Compact and ergonomic | Only suitable for small-scale jobs |
| Star protection controls | |
| Lightweight | |
| Cordless | |
| Extra powerful | |
| Dual direction switch |
CONCLUSION
While there are many options to consider when planning your next concrete pouring projects, it is important to select a concrete vibrator that matches your specific needs. Concrete pouring is an ancient and important art, and so this post intended to guide you in selecting the best tool for your next masterpiece.
