Martin Engineering offers the MHF-1500 Brushless Concrete Form Vibrator for compaction, consolidation and leveling applications on construction sites.
“Traditionally, this type of motor is universal AC with internal brushes like a DC brushed motor,” explained Travis Miller, global engineering manager of flow aids at Martin Engineering. “Those create heat if used on any high-duty cycle application that drives them to failure. By going AC to AC, we can eliminate the brushes and reduce the heat build-up.”
Brushless Vibration Technology
The external VFD/Inverter converts the single-phase 110-120V 60 Hz power to three-phase 230V, 100 Hz power in the electric rotary motor which runs at 6,000 rpm producing 1,500 lbs. (680 kg) of force. This allows for a brushless environment where magnetic fields rotate in space for the rotor to follow, lowering heat output which reduces wear and tear on internal components.
The whole unit is sealed in a totally enclosed, non-ventilated (TENV) aluminum housing rated International Protection Marking (IP) 66 and National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) 4 with seals that comply with North American and EU standards. Durable O-rings between the end caps and the housing retain the tight seal, even during pressure washing.
The casing can be opened for maintenance in-house. By removing the weight covers, operators can adjust the vibratory unbalance to the required force needed for the application. Each MHF-1500 features oversized and permanently lubricated roller bearings contained in sealed ductile iron housings.
Design
“The sheer size and weight of some precast forms can be demanding on vibrators, so a powerful and consistent performance is key,” Miller pointed out. “In our research, we found that the difference in power needs between the construction site and the shop were largely the same.”
Martin Engineers designed an optional ductile iron wedge and a sturdy curved handle for portability and versatility.
At the Martin’s Center for Innovation in Neponset, Illinois, every MHF-1500 vibrator goes through a two-tiered testing phase before final prep, as well as prior to shipping.
“We listen to customers and design units to meet their needs,” Miller concluded. “Our philosophy is that, if we create the longest-lasting and most reliable product, the dividends will come in the form of customer loyalty.”