7032 SOUTH 196th - KENT, WA 98032 - (253) 872-0141 / FAX (253) 872-8710
OPERATION / MAINTENANCE MANUAL
I. GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued...)
I-3B. The Vibrator Gearbox
The vibrator gearbox contains two high amplitude eccentric weights cast in one piece with the gear. The
center has a hollow tube. This design is unique to the industry and was developed by the engineers
of APE to solve a number of problems associated with other types of wick drain machines. Both the
eccentric and the drive gear have been helically cut to provide high speed operation with reduced noise
and wear. Vibration is caused by the vertical movement created when the eccentrics are rotated. The
eccentric and drive gear are driven in line by one hydraulic motor mounted on the outside face of the
gearbox. The eccentrics rotate on two shafts housed by four giant spherical bearings. The gears and
bearings receive lubrication as a result of the fluid splashing inside the gearbox when the gears are
rotated. The oil level is quickly determined by looking at the site gauge.
Figure 1-D. General Description of Vibrator Gearbox.
Page 1-5
Top view of inside of vibro gear box.
Gear box
Eccentric gear
Eccentric
Hollow tube center
Mandrel washers
Mandrel
Drive motor that turns eccentrics
