concrete vibrator is a construction tool used on concrete pouring sites. A variety of manufacturers build concrete vibrators and an assortment of attachments designed for multiple applications. A concrete vibrator is used to ensure that a concrete pour is even and free of air bubbles so that the concrete will remain strong and have a smooth finish. While not necessary for small jobs, a concrete vibrator is essential on large load bearing projects.
Concrete vibrator designs range in size from small battery-powered wands to much larger plug-in versions that be used on very deep pours. In all cases, a concrete vibrator that can reach the bottom of the pouring forms should be used, ensuring even treatment of the entire concrete pour. Attachments for the concrete vibrator are selected on the basis of the depth of the pour and the type of concrete being used.
A concrete vibrator uses an off-centered weight, which is spun as much as 10,000 times a minute, causing large air pockets in the concrete to disperse as the concrete is shaken. Especially in pours of low slump concrete, which uses minimal water, the use of a concrete vibrator is essential to ensure that the concrete does not bubble or form holes. In cases where consumers will be looking at the finished concrete, as is common in some schools of design that employ concrete counters and floors, use of a concrete vibrator will present an even and attractive surface, rather than one that may be slightly ragged.
Proper use of a concrete vibrator requires some training. The head of the concrete vibrator should always be slowly lowered into the pour and pulled out gradually to avoid the formation of an air pocket. A concrete vibrator should never be dragged through a pour, because it will leave a groove in the concrete behind it. The amount of time required varies depending on the mix, but it does not usually take more than 30 seconds to settle the concrete sufficiently and move on to the next section of concrete