Wacker Neuson Vibroplate BPS1550A - 5100061215
Specs
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Wacker Neuson Vibroplate BPS1550A - 5100061215: Gasoline Solo Plate with High-Performance Compaction
In construction, paving, landscaping, and municipal work, contractors need compaction equipment that delivers power, reliability, and usability. The Wacker Neuson BPS1550A (SKU 5100061215) is a single-direction vibratory plate powered by a Honda gasoline engine. It’s designed for heavy-duty compaction of soil and asphalt, with features that emphasize control, clean results, and operator comfort.
Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications, standout features, ideal applications, comparisons with alternatives, and crucial maintenance tips.
Technical Specifications
Based on Wacker Neuson official data and verified retailer sources:
Spec | Value |
---|---|
SKU / Part Number | 5100061215Â |
Operating Weight | ~ 184.5 lb (~ 83.7 kg)Â |
Base Plate Size (W × L) | 19.7 in × 23.6 in (~ 500 mm × 599 mm) |
Overall Dimensions (Length × Width × Height) | 38.1 in × 19.7 in × 26.1 in (~ 970 mm × 500 mm × 663 mm) |
Gradeability (Max Slope) | ~ 36.4 %Â |
Vibration Frequency | 5,880 vibrations per minute (≈ 98 Hz) |
Compaction Force / Centrifugal Force | ~ 15 kN (~ 3,372 lbf) |
Forward Running Speed | ~ 25.0 m/min (~ 1.4 ft/s)Â |
Engine | Honda gasoline, 4-stroke, single cylinder; ~ 3.6 kW (≈ 4.8 hp) nominal, ~ 4.2 hp at peak |
Fuel Tank Capacity | ~ 0.95 US gal (~ 3.6 L) |
Water Tank / Sprinkler | Large permanent water tank (~2.11 gal / ~8 L) with efficient sprinkler coverage over full plate width for asphalt suppression of sticking / dust control. |
Sound & Vibration Levels | HAV (hand-arm vibration) <5 m/s² (~ 4.1 m/s² measured); Sound pressure level LpA ~95 dB(A); Sound power LWA ~108 dB(A) |
Key Features & Highlights
The BPS1550A offers a suite of features engineered for performance, finish quality, and operator safety:
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Large Water Tank with Sprinkler System
Helps suppress asphalt sticking, enables better surface finishes, reduces dust during compaction jobs. The sprinkler covers the full plate width and water flow is regulatable. -
Strong Compaction Force & Plate Width
With ~15 kN force and 500 mm (20-inch) plate width, it handles sizeable areas and heavier soils / asphalt effectively. -
Low Hand-Arm Vibration
By design (guide handle, studs, damping), HAV is kept <5 m/s², making work more comfortable and reducing fatigue risk. -
Good Maneuverability & Clean Edge Finishes
Plate edges are angled in front and rounded in rear to avoid tracking when turning. Handle steering is responsive for precision in tight areas and curbs. -
Reliable Gasoline Engine
Honda engine, 4-stroke, proven reliability; good power output at nominal speed. Carburetor fuel management; recoil starter; designed for robustness. -
Operational Flexibility
Gradeability of ~36.4% allows use on slopes; dimensions and weight make it transportable with small trailers or in trucks without heavy equipment.Â
Benefits & Value Proposition
Here’s what makes the BPS1550A valuable in real-world use:
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Efficiency in both soil and asphalt applications: The water tank helps with asphalt jobs; strong plate and force handle soil compaction well.
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Reduced rework and better finish: Clean edges and reduced tracking thanks to plate geometry and sprinkling improves finish, reducing post-work repairs.
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Operator health & productivity: Lower vibration and manageable sound levels help reduce fatigue and potential long-term exposure risks.
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Lower maintenance compared to reversible plates or different drive systems: Simple gasoline engine, fewer moving parts in transmission (single-direction drive) yields fewer mechanical issues.
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Versatility & reliability: Adequate for large scale compacting tasks in many site conditions; the options for engine type (Honda, sometimes Briggs & Stratton in series) give flexibility.
Ideal Applications & Use Scenarios
Use the BPS1550A when:
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Compaction work on fresh asphalt (patching, overlays) where water suppression is needed to avoid asphalt sticking.
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Soil base compaction, especially for paver bases, driveways, sidewalks before surfacing.
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Sidewalks, paths, curb work where precision, clean finishes, and maneuverability are important.
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Construction sites where portability and handling matter (weight ~184.5 lb, manageable with help or proper transport).
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Fleet rental environments where gasoline plates are demanded, but environmental noise/exhaust concerns exist.
How It Compares to Alternatives
Here’s how BPS1550A stacks up vs similar models or different technologies:
Competitor / Model | Strengths Over BPS1550A | Trade-Offs / Weaknesses |
---|---|---|
Smaller Gas Plates (e.g. 1135 class) | More compaction force, wider plate → fewer passes, faster area coverage | Heavier to move; more fuel consumption; less nimble in extremely tight spaces |
BPS1550AW (with water tank vs without) / water versions | With water tank gives more utility for asphalt suppression, cleaner finishes | Water tank increases maintenance (tank, sprinkler), weight, need to refill; cost slightly higher |
Electric / Battery-powered Plates | Zero exhaust, lower noise; fewer fuel maintenance issues | Batteries cost; runtime limits; charging needed; initial purchase cost often higher |
Reversible Plates | Ability to compact while backing up, useful in trenches or when doing many passes | More expensive; more complex; often heavier; potentially more maintenance on transmission |
Maintenance & Best Practices Tips
To get maximum lifespan and performance out of the BPS1550A:
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Fuel & Engine Care
Use clean, fresh gasoline; follow Honda oil change schedules; keep air filter clean; use proper oil (SAE 10W-30 per spec); check spark plug and ignition regularly. -
Water System Check
Ensure water tank is clean, sprinkler nozzles free from clogs; maintain sprinkler flow; avoid corrosion; empty water tank if storing in freezing conditions. -
Plate Maintenance
Keep base plate clean of asphalt or sticky material; resurfacing or sanding if plate is worn; check and maintain plate edges. -
Vibration & Handle Inspection
Bolts securing handles, mounting must be checked; vibration isolating elements or handle dampers should be inspected. -
Transport & Storage
Store in dry, sheltered area; protect engine from moisture; drain fuel if storing for long periods; cover machine to protect finish. -
Proper Use
Don’t exceed gradeability limits; avoid overworking plate (forceful feeding) which can overheat engine; allow cooling as needed.
Conclusion
The Wacker Neuson Vibroplate BPS1550A – 5100061215 stands out as a high-performance, single-direction gasoline plate compactor that blends strong compaction force, usable plate width, and operator-friendly features like low vibration and water-sprinkling support. If your projects include asphalt patches, driveway and soil base work, or curbing where finishes matter, this machine delivers both power and precision.
For any contractor or rental fleet needing a reliable gasoline plate that doesn’t compromise on clean results or usability, the BPS1550A is among the top picks in its class.