Ready mix concrete pump

Types of ready mix concrete pumps

A ready mix concrete pump is a machine used to transfer liquid concrete. There are two main types of concrete pumps: the boom pump and the line pump. Both types of pumps serve different purposes, but they are built with the same basic parts, which include a hopper, a pump, and a hydraulic system.

• Boom pumps: These are large concrete pumps mounted to a truck or a semi-trailer. Boom pumps use a robotic arm to deliver ready-mix concrete precisely and accurately to the desired location. The robotic arm is also known as the boom. It allows the operator to reach over obstacles and into areas that are difficult to access. Boom pumps are great for large construction projects that require high volumes of concrete to be poured quickly and efficiently. They also offer great control and are perfect for placing concrete in specific locations, like slabs or foundations.
• Line pumps: These are portable concrete pumps that are best suited for smaller construction projects. A line pump is mounted on a trailer and uses a series of steel or rubber hoses to guide the flow of concrete to the desired location. Line pumps are great for residential construction projects that require concrete to be poured in tight spaces or hard-to-reach areas. They are also more affordable and easy to set up compared to boom pumps. However, line pumps are not as efficient as boom pumps, and they are better suited for projects that require smaller volumes of concrete.

Specifications and maintenance of ready mix concrete pump

• Specifications

Max. theo. output: For ready mix concrete pumps, the maximum theoretical output is an important indicator, which refers to the maximum output capacity of the concrete pump under ideal working conditions. The unit is generally cubic meters per hour (m³/h). Business buyers need to choose a concrete pump with a suitable maximum theoretical output according to the specific construction requirements.

Max. concrete pressure: Concrete pressure is another critical parameter for ready mix concrete pumps, which refers to the maximum pressure that the concrete pump can apply to the concrete during the pumping process. The unit is generally expressed in megapascals (MPa). Max. concrete pressure is an essential indicator of the performance and versatility of the concrete pump.

Engine power: The engine power of a ready mix concrete pump is usually measured in units of kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (HP). The engine power directly affects the performance and efficiency of the concrete pump. The higher the engine power, the greater the pumping capacity and the better the adaptability to different working conditions.

Max. pumping height/distance: The maximum pumping height refers to the maximum vertical distance that the ready mix concrete pump can pump the concrete. The maximum pumping distance refers to the maximum horizontal distance for the pump to convey the concrete. Both are expressed in meters (m). The maximum pumping height and distance are crucial for determining the applicability and versatility of the ready mix concrete pump in various construction scenarios.

• Maintenance

Regular inspection: Check the overall condition of the ready mix concrete pump, including the hydraulic system, electrical system, pipeline system, etc. Find and repair any damage or abnormal conditions in a timely manner.

Lubrication maintenance: Lubricate the key components of the ready mix concrete pump regularly, such as the pumping cylinder, the S valve, and the hydraulic system. Proper lubrication is crucial to ensure smooth operation and extend the service life of the machine.

Cleaning maintenance: After the use of the ready mix concrete pump is completed, promptly clean the pipeline, remove the residual concrete, and use the cleaning ball for pipeline cleaning. Regular cleaning of the machine can prevent blockages and ensure smooth pumping.

Operational safety: Ensure that the operator of the ready mix concrete pump is trained and familiar with the operation guidelines. Always follow the operational safety guidelines and avoid operating the pump under overload or other unsafe conditions.

Storage and protection: If the ready mix concrete pump needs to be stored for a long time, take anti-corrosion and moisture-proof measures. Regular inspections or start-up tests should be conducted to prevent rust and damage to the machine components.

By performing routine maintenance and regular inspections, the ready mix concrete pump can maintain good performance and a longer service life.

Scenarios of ready mix concrete pumps

Ready-mix concrete pumps play a vital role in various scenarios of the construction industry.

• Infrastructure projects

RMC pumps are essential for infrastructure projects, such as bridges, highways, tunnels, and airports. Their high efficiency and long-distance transportation capabilities can meet the large-scale and high-volume concrete pouring requirements of such projects.

• High-rise buildings

Concrete pumps are irreplaceable machines for pouring concrete in high-rise buildings. Their abilities to transport concrete vertically and precisely control the pouring ensure the quality and efficiency of construction. Such projects include office buildings, residential towers, and commercial complexes.

• Urban construction

RMC pumps are also widely used in various urban construction scenarios, such as subways, rail transit, and water conservancy projects. The equipment's flexibility and mobility can adapt to the complex construction environment and meet the strict requirements of these projects for concrete quality and construction efficiency.

• Special engineering

Some special engineering scenarios, such as offshore platforms, dams, and foundation works, have high requirements for concrete placement accuracy, stability, and adaptability to harsh environments. In these cases, specialized types of ready-mix concrete pumps, like boom placers, line pumps, or separate placing booms, are selected to meet the specific needs of the project.

Apart from the above scenarios, the use of ready mix concrete pumps is not limited to these areas. In the future, there will be more scenarios for ready mix concrete pumps to serve, which will help the development of the construction industry.

How to choose ready mix concrete pumps

Selecting the right ready mix concrete pump is essential for the effectiveness of the construction project. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a ready-mix concrete pump for sale:

• Project scale and requirements:

The scale and requirements of the project are important factors in choosing a ready-mix concrete pump. Larger construction projects may require higher volumes of concrete to be pumped at faster rates over longer distances. In contrast, smaller projects with more limited access may only require a compact pump. Assessing the specific needs of the project in terms of concrete volume, pumping distance, and speed will help determine the right type and size of pump to use.

• Available budget:

Ready-mix concrete pumps come in different sizes and configurations, each with its own price point. The available budget for the project will influence which type and model of pump can be selected. Balancing budget constraints with the project's specific requirements is essential to choosing a pump that offers the best performance and value within the set financial parameters.

• Quality of the pump:

The quality of the ready mix concrete pump is crucial in ensuring its performance, reliability, and longevity. When choosing a pump, it is essential to consider the manufacturer's reputation, the pump's build quality, and any applicable certifications or warranties. Investing in a well-built, high-quality pump will help avoid downtime and costly repairs, thus enhancing the project's efficiency and success.

• After-sales support:

After the purchase of the pump, after-sales service and support are also essential considerations. A reliable supplier should offer technical assistance, spare parts availability, and maintenance services to ensure the pump's ongoing performance and address any issues or needs that arise during the project.

Ready mix concrete pump Q & A

Q: What is the typical flow rate of a concrete pump?

A: The flow rate of a concrete pump can vary depending on the type and model. Generally, the flow rate of concrete pump ranges between 15m3/h to 90m3/h for mini concrete pumps, trailer-mounted concrete pumps, and boom pumps. Larger models may have even higher flow rates.

Q: What is the maximum horizontal reach of a concrete pump?

A: The maximum horizontal reach of a concrete pump can also vary depending on the type and model. It typically ranges from 100 meters to 300 meters for mini concrete pumps, trailer-mounted concrete pumps, and boom pumps. Larger models may have an even longer horizontal reach.

Q: Can a concrete pump be used for other materials besides concrete?

A: Concrete pumps are specifically designed and manufactured for pumping concrete. It is not recommended to use them for pumping other materials unless the manufacturer explicitly states that it is safe and suitable to do so.