As many a construction worker will tell you, often one of the most valuable tools to have on site (especially if the job in hand requires concrete) is the humble concrete mixer. In this article, we’ll explore what a concrete mixer is, how it works, and why it’s so useful to so many different types of project.
What is a Concrete Mixer?
A concrete mixer is a device used to mix cement, aggregate, and water to form concrete. These mixers are essential in various construction projects, since they allow for the efficient, thorough, and quick mixing of materials to create concrete. This ability can have a significant positive impact on jobs such as laying building foundations, structures, concrete floors or pavements, and other concrete-related tasks.
How Concrete Mixers Work
Concrete mixers operate by combining cement, aggregate, and water inside a rotating drum. As the drum rotates, the blades inside lift and tumble the ingredients, mixing them uniformly. This process ensures that the concrete is consistent and well-blended, and suitable for various construction works. The mixers can be operated manually or powered by electricity or fuel, which makes them versatile for different construction environments.
Types of Concrete Mixers
There are several types of concrete mixers which include:
Batch mixers
Batch mixers are machines that mix concrete in batches, allowing for precise control over the consistency and composition of the mix. These are ideal for construction sites where varying types of concrete are needed at different times. Within this, there are also different types of batch mixers too, including:
Drum Mixers
Drum type mixers are a category of batch mixers that use a rotating drum to mix concrete components. They are subdivided into:
- Tilting Drum Mixers: These mixers have a drum that can tilt to pour the mix directly into a container or onto the ground, which makes them suitable for sites where the mixing and pouring locations are close together.
- Non-Tilting Drum Mixer: With a fixed drum position, these mixers discharge concrete through a chute, which can be moved to direct the concrete to where it needs to be.
- Reversing Drum Mixer: These mixers eature a drum that rotates in one direction for mixing and in the opposite direction for discharging concrete. This setup provides better control over discharge and minimises waste.
Pan Mixers
Pan Mixers use a stationary and open-top pan in which the ingredients are mixed by rotating arms with attached blades. This design allows for thorough and uniform mixing of concrete which is ideal for coloured or decorative concrete as well as smaller batches where mix precision is crucial. The pan mixer’s efficient and consistent blending ensures high-quality concrete output that is suitable for both construction and laboratory settings.
Continuous mixers
Continuous mixers provide a steady stream of concrete and are ideal for large construction site projects requiring large quantities of concrete. These mixers feed ingredients continuously and mix the concrete during its passage through the mixer which ensures consistent output and quality. This type of mixer is suitable for high-demand, or automated production environments.
Benefits of Using A Concrete Mixer
Using a concrete mixer offers numerous benefits in construction projects. It increases efficiency by mixing large volumes of concrete quickly and consistently, which ensures uniform quality throughout the project. This uniformity is often crucial for structural integrity and durability. Additionally, choosing to use a mixer reduces labour costs and physical strain on workers by mechanising what is often the most labour-intensive part of working with concrete. Overall, a concrete mixer is a valuable investment that enhances productivity and quality, while also cutting down on time and cost.
How to Use a Concrete Mixer Safely
To get the most out of a concrete mixer and avoid putting site personnel at risk, they need to be used safely. That being the case, below we’ve put together a short guide on how to do just that.
Setup
Choose a level area of firm ground to set up the mixer – this is important to prevent tipping. At the same time you’ll ideally want to place it close to your work area to avoid moving mixed concrete over long distances.
Loading
Start by adding half of the required water and a portion of the aggregate. Follow with the cement, then the rest of the aggregate. This sequence helps to reduce clumping by coating the aggregate with cement before adding the remaining water and materials.
Mixing
Turn on the mixer and let it run until the mixture appears uniform and smooth. Make sure that all components are thoroughly mixed to ensure the concrete’s strength and durability.
Pouring
Once mixing is complete, if the mixer is a tilting type, tilt it to pour the concrete into wheelbarrows or directly into forms. For non-tilting mixers, use the discharge chute to guide the concrete to the desired location. Work as quickly as is safe to do so at this point to ensure the concrete remains workable and easy to spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Mixer?
Whether you need a mixer depends on the scale and scope of your project. For small, simple tasks, mixing by hand might suffice. However, for larger projects or when consistency and quality are crucial, a mixer can significantly improve efficiency and ensure uniformity in your concrete mix.
How do I Obtain a Mixer?
Concrete mixers are available at various construction equipment stores, or can be acquired from online construction equipment suppliers like Multiquip UK.
How do I Clean a Mixer?
Cleaning a cement mixer involves rinsing out the drum immediately after use with water to prevent concrete from hardening inside. For thorough cleaning, use a mixture of water and a mild detergent or concrete dissolver while scrubbing with a stiff brush to remove any residue. Regular maintenance ensures a longer life and better performance of the mixer.
Conclusion
Concrete mixers are invaluable tools in construction, making tasks quicker, easier, and more cost-effective. No matter the project, if it involves concrete then a mixer can make the job much simpler.
Interested in learning more about cement mixers, or need one for your next project? Visit Multiquip UK’s website to explore our range of high-quality concrete mixers and mixing stations and find the perfect one for your needs.