How to choose the Right Concrete Mixer?

A concrete mixer is composed of a motor, a rotating tank, a dump wheel or a tipping handle that allows the tank to tilt. The main factor that govern the selection of right concrete mixer is the volume of concrete that is required to be mixed in a single batch. 

Figure.1. Electric Concrete Mixer

Always keep in mind that the tank of the concrete mixer can be filled with 80 percent of concrete mix. So, when the concrete mixer manufacturer mentions about the mixing volume is 80 percent, it means that 80 percent of the volume of the tank. Do not confuse between the mixing volume and the volume of the whole tank.

Technical Factors Considered While Selecting Concrete Mixer

Some small factors that need to be considered while choosing a concrete mixer are:

1. Drum Volume
2. Concrete Mixer Power
3. Mains Voltage
4. Drum Rotation Frequency
5. The Blades
6. Wheels on the Frame
7. Noise Level

1. Drum Volume of Concrete Mixer

When selecting a concrete mixer, the frequency of use is an important criterion to be taken into consideration. This will decide the drum volume of the concrete mixer. These include:

1. Occasional Use of Concrete Mixer
2. Frequent Use of Concrete Mixer
3. Regular or Intensive Use of Concrete Mixer

Occasional Use of Concrete Mixer: This condition exists in small worksites. For a single worksite, a concrete mixer of 60-liter capacity is found sufficient. An electric concrete mixer is more favorable.

Frequent Use of Concrete Mixer: This condition exists in medium worksites. In these worksites, a concrete mixer of a maximum 120-liter capacity is generally demanded and sufficient. Based on the size of the job, the volume of the mixer can be increased to 160 or 190 liters. 

Regular or Intensive Use of Concrete Mixer: This condition is more found in large and professional worksites that will require concrete manufacture continuously with fewer breaks between. Here, we must opt for a concrete mixer with a larger tank with a capacity of 250 liters. This is calculated based on the needs.

2. Concrete Mixer Power

The ratio of the engine power to the drum volume explains the performance of the concrete mixer. This implies, that a weak engine cannot rotate the drum at the required speed to mix a larger mass of concrete. This will finally damage the mixer.

So it is required to choose an engine power based on the quantity to be mixed and the production time in advance.

3. Main Voltage

Always study the required voltage required for the concrete mixer to work properly, before purchasing it. When powerful drum mixers are purchased, it will require power generators to work properly.

4. Drum Rotation Frequency of Concrete Mixer

The larger the drum diameter, the minimum rotation speed must be lower. To get the right concrete , it is not only necessary to have right proportion of concrete but also the right speed of mixing.

5. The blades of Concrete Mixer

The blade in a concrete mixer drum can be either stationary or rotating. More the number of blades, more even and faster is the building mixture. 

6. Additional Wheels

Additional wheels for the concrete mixer facilitates easy movement of the concrete mixer all around the construction site with ease. Additional locking system must be provided to prevent accidental movement of the machine.

7. Noise Leve of Concrete Mixer

The noise level of the machine is a concern based on the working site. A less noise emitting  mixer is chosen for apartment building construction to avoid disturbance to the neighbors. For outdoor construction site, a less noise emitting machine can be used.

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