Construction is a complex process, sometimes long and very difficult, especially physically. And, of course, manufacturers of various construction tools and equipment have long come up with many different useful things that greatly facilitate the work. And the concrete mixer is no exception. By the way, the statement that for private use this equipment is an unjustified luxury is just a myth (if you know how to choose a concrete mixer specifically for a home or a small work team).
General classification
Construction happens on different scales. And depending on this, several basic types of equipment are distinguished. First of all, these are large-sized concrete mixers. They are indispensable for large-scale construction, for example, multi-storey and multi-apartment buildings, and are completely useless for private construction. There are compact models for this. They are designed specifically for private teams and home use when a large volume of solution is not required. And working with them, of course, is several times easier. How to choose a concrete mixer for private craftsmen? It is necessary to rely on several criteria.
Mechanism
Just thinking about how to choose a concrete mixer for construction work, immediately decide for yourself what type of control is needed. For example, on construction sites of a small scale (private), manual equipment will be quite enough. It is much cheaper than automated counterparts, but it requires physical effort in the work. On the other hand, small-sized automatic concrete mixers for a moderate amount are an indisputable assistant for private construction. Here everyone decides for himself what exactly he needs. A manual concrete mixer is not just a expenditure of physical strength, but also a significant investment in time, which not every builder can afford.
Bowl volume
A concrete mixer drum is one of the main elements that you need to pay attention to. The volume of the bowl up to one hundred and fifty liters is suitable specifically for private construction. At the same time, those who are just thinking about how to choose a concrete mixer should remember that the volume of the solution will be 2/3 of the volume of the drum. This is due to the peculiarities of the process of mixing the building mass itself and its extraction from the equipment. Do not believe the sweet speeches and promises of sellers that from a 130-liter concrete mixer you can get 100 liters of mortar.
The engine and its power
It is widely believed that the more powerful the device, the better it works. Regarding concrete mixers, this is a myth, no more. The more competent you use the equipment, the better and better it works - this is a fact. And performance is not so much affected by engine power. Although absolutely this criterion cannot be discounted. How to choose a concrete mixer, focusing on power? For private construction, equipment is usually offered up to 1 kilowatt. It is considered unprofessional, lightweight. At the same time, when buying, always pay attention to the required voltage. For example, there are models of concrete mixers that operate on a 220V network, and there are those that require more - 380V and higher. In this case, an additional stabilizer or generator may be required. And, of course, when wondering how to choose the right concrete mixer for the house, remember that a long working time requires a lot of power. If the period of use of the equipment does not exceed 12 hours, then 700 watts is quite suitable.
Solution unloading
Also important is the way in which the extraction of the finished solution from the drum is carried out. Of course, powerful and large building concrete mixers are equipped with automatic supply of the finished building mixture. Are there any for private use? Typically, loading and unloading occurs in manual mode, if the drum volume is less than 300 liters. But some manufacturers meet their customers' needs and make small concrete mixers with a semi-automatic system for supplying the finished solution - for example, at the expense of the pedal. That is, physical force will still have to be applied. If you want to choose a concrete mixer for the home, then pay attention to such models. This will significantly save strength during construction.
Stirring
It would seem that it is simpler: loaded cement, sand, poured water, turned it on, and let the solution interfere with the equipment. But everything is not as it seems at first glance. There are two types of operation of concrete mixers, and regardless of their size and power. Each of them has its advantages, disadvantages and purpose.
Gravity action
This type is considered universal and suitable for construction of any scale. A key feature is that the mixing and preparation of the solution occurs due to the blades that are located inside the drum. They carefully mix cement, sand and water to a homogeneous mixture. Have you thought about how to choose a concrete mixer? Consider the principle by which it works.
Coercive action
This type of mixing is more suitable for equipment designed for large-scale construction. A serious drum volume, impressive power - all this requires the most thorough way of mixing the solution. You think how to choose a concrete mixer by the principle of its action? Remember that forced mixing equipment is an option for liquid concrete. That is, kneading a cool solution in it (for example, for laying a basement or walls) is unlikely to work. In addition, there are not many models of small volume with the indicated type of kneading on the market.
Gearbox options
Gravity kneading concrete mixers are divided into two types - gear and crown. The first has earned a good reputation because it is reliable and durable. But this is not widespread. Fly in the ointment - a difficult repair. If a concrete mixer of this type breaks down, then replacing the gearbox will be problematic, and in some cases completely impossible.
Thinking about how to choose a concrete mixer with a gravitational method of kneading? Pay attention to coronal mixers. They have a lot of advantages.
Crown stirrers
In another way they are also called crowns. Their service life is slightly less than gear. But when repairing equipment of this type is less whimsical, all elements are easily replaced. What definitely does not need to be done is to lubricate the mechanism from the inside, which can affect the work, slow it down or stop it altogether.
Body
It is important to do when choosing - this is the material from which the concrete mixer body is made. For example, the drum itself may be metal, but the mechanism is covered with plastic. Why is this bad? Plastic has the property of quickly deteriorating. Good equipment is metal. This significantly adds weight to it, but you won’t have to take reliability and thoroughness. Pay attention to how reliably the control device is hidden if the concrete mixer is electric. Yes, and the manual should be protected from rain, snow, ice.
Some practical advice
However, the manufacturer and the country in which the equipment is made do not always guarantee quality. Before buying, it will not be out of place to ask the owners of similar models about the quality of the concrete mixer. Even from the conveyors of some eminent foreign manufacturers, such models that are completely unsuitable for working with the solution come off. And, of course, you can always make a concrete mixer yourself, if you have time and a little savvy. Suitable materials can be found in your own bins or in specialized stores. At a cost it will turn out cheaper than purchasing finished equipment.
How to make a concrete mixer?
To assemble a mixer, which will work in manual mode, it will take not so much:
- a drum (you can purchase a small volume in a specialized store or adapt a tank of a suitable shape);
- relay (handle that will scroll the drum);
- rack (tank spinning on it).
Additionally, you may need blades that need to be welded into the tank, if you have not purchased a special drum, of course. Install the structure on the rack, insert the relay so that it easily scrolls, swinging the tank. Of course, such an improvised concrete mixer will not differ in the special quality of the mortar, but it is quite suitable for home use.