The AME 600 is an electrical drive unit designed for AT mechanical poker vibrators, used for concrete compaction. It is a splash-proof and double-insulated device, connecting to a single-phase power socket. The drive unit houses a universal motor in a plastic body made of glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate. Two rubber protections are fitted on both flanges of the drive unit to prevent shock damage to the casing.
Function Description
The AME 600 drive unit powers poker vibrators, which are inserted into fresh concrete to compact it. This process removes air bubbles, improving the concrete's density and strength. The vibrator should be allowed to penetrate about 15 cm (6 in.) into the nearest lower layer to ensure proper merging of layers. Concrete should be filled evenly in 30-50 cm (12-19 in.) layers. The poker vibrator should be inserted vertically at a distance of 8-10 times its tube diameter between insertions, and the vibration process should be systematic. The vibrator is withdrawn slowly to allow concrete to refill the cavity. Concrete is considered thoroughly vibrated when the area around the vibrator becomes shiny and no air bubbles rise to the surface, typically taking 10-20 seconds. It is important not to use the poker vibrator to move concrete sideways or run it for extended periods when not submerged in concrete.
Important Technical Specifications
The AME 600 electrical drive unit is available in two main configurations: UK/US-CAN and EU.
- Voltage: 115 V (UK/US-CAN) or 230 V (EU)
- Phases: 1
- Frequency: 50/60 Hz
- Power: 0.6 kW (0.8 hp)
- Amperage: 5.5 A (UK/US-CAN) or 11 A (EU)
- Protection: IP44
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 357x95x180 mm
- Speed at full load: 3,000 r.p.m.
- Cable length: 5 m (16 ft)
- Weighted effective acceleration (measured in water with Superflex 10 and AT29): 1.72 m/s² (0.38)
- Uncertainty (K): 1.9 (6.2)
- Operating weight: 1.9 kg (6.2 lbs)
- Noise declaration statement: Guaranteed sound power level Lw according to EN ISO 3744 in accordance with directive 2000/14/EC. Sound pressure level Lp according to EN ISO 11203 is 82 dBA.
The poker vibrators come in various models (HA25-1, HA25-2, HA25-3, HA35-1, HA35-2, HA35-3, HA45-1, HA45-2) with different diameters, lengths, and sheath lengths.
- Diameter: 26 mm (1 in.), 36 mm (1.4 in.), or 45 mm (1.8 in.)
- Length: 295 mm (11.6 in.), 330 mm (13 in.), or 375 mm (14.8 in.)
- Length of sheath: 1 m (3.3 ft), 2 m (6.5 ft), or 3 m (9.8 ft)
- Total weight: Ranging from 2.8 kg (6.2 lb) to 7.6 kg (16.8 lb) depending on the model.
- Speed: 12000 rpm for all poker vibrator models.
Usage Features
The AME 600 is designed for ease of use and safety. Before connecting the poker vibrator, ensure the supply voltage matches the data plate. The drive unit should not be immersed in water or concrete.
- Connecting the poker: Insert the coupling of the drive unit into the coupling end of the sheath, push it to the stop, and ensure the square of the flexible shaft is engaged with the coupling square of the unit. Tighten the release handle to secure the sheath end.
- Starting and stopping: Ensure the switch is set to 'O' (off) before plugging the drive unit into the power socket. Move the switch to 'I' (on) to start vibration. Move the switch to 'O' to stop.
- Safety: The machine is equipped with safety labels indicating the need for an instruction manual, protective gloves, and ear protectors. During breaks, the machine must be placed safely on the ground to prevent unintentional starting or falling. The power supply should be switched off during longer breaks or when leaving the workplace.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of the AME 600.
- General: Use only authorized parts. Damage from unauthorized parts is not covered by warranty. Clean mechanical parts with solvent in well-ventilated areas. For major service, contact an authorized workshop. After service, check for normal vibration levels.
- Every 10 hours of operation (daily): Check and clean the motor's cooling flanges to prevent clogging by sand and stones. Clean the machine, removing concrete splashes while fresh. Check that controls are not damaged or jammed. Do not use high-pressure water to clean the drive unit.
- Every 75 hours of operation (or every second week): Disconnect the flexible shaft from the drive unit by lifting the locking mechanism. Unscrew the shaft from the poker (left-handed thread). Pull out and lubricate the inner shaft with SHELL HDX2 RETINAX grease or equivalent (approx. 20 grams per meter of shaft). Avoid excessive greasing to prevent overload of the electric drive unit and circuit breaker trips. Run the unit for two minutes continuously to distribute the grease before immersion in concrete.
- Every 100 hours of operation (or monthly): Inspect carbon brushes monthly or every 100 hours. They typically last 250 hours but may wear prematurely. Inspect the commutator; if worn, it can be turned down in a lathe (minimum diameter 35.5 mm / 13.9 in.).
- Changing carbon brushes: The machine has two carbon brushes with a safety system that stops the motor when brush wear is significant. Systematically replace both brushes. Remove the cover, extract the brush with a small screwdriver, and disconnect connectors. Insert the new brush in the correct direction, connect, and push to the stop. Check the O-ring condition. Position the cover with the pin upwards, ensuring the O-ring is not damaged or pinched, then tighten the cover.
- AT vibrator tube maintenance: Due to workload, temperature, and vibrations, bearings and seals will wear out. Replace failed components with original parts; replacement bearing kits are available. To replace bearings, dismantle the end cap (right-hand thread) and tube connector (left-hand thread). Loosen the square screw cap on the drive side by locking the eccentric with a screwdriver. Locate and pull out the eccentric with the two bearings from the vibrator tube. Press the two bearings out of the tube and assemble in the opposite order.