What is a Concrete Mixer?

A concrete mixer is a device that homogeneouslysuch as a patio, sidewalk repair, or small slab, a
combines concrete, aggregate such as sand orportable concrete mixer is essential to maximize
gravel, and water to form concrete - a poweredefficiency. A concrete mixer does not keep concrete
device that mixes concrete with water andready for application indefinitely, so it is important to
aggregate, such as sand or pea gravel, to makehave an understanding of how much concrete you
concrete. Concrete mixers range from the very largecan pour and finish within a specific time frame.
commercial mixing truck to the smaller, portableDifferent types of concrete set faster than others,
concrete mixer sometimes called a mini mixer. Aso check the manufacturer's directions.
concrete mixer is comprised primarily of a motor, aLarger projects, such as a driveway or basketball
rotating drum, and often a chute. Inside the drum,court, may require calling a commercial truck.
the materials used to make concrete spin around,Commercial concrete mixers require access to within
mixing together evenly and remaining soft fora fairly close distance of the project. In-ground
application and forming.swimming pools are an example of a large-scale
Today's market increasingly requires consistentproject requiring direct access by a truck.
homogeneity and short mixing times for the industrialUnderstand that calling a concrete company only
production of ready-mix concrete, and more so forsecures delivery of the concrete. Pricing is a flat rate
precast/prestressed concrete. This has resulted inper cubic yard ordered and the truck will remain on
new technologies for concrete production. Worldwide,site only for a specified period of time. Large
therefore, twin-shaft batch mixers are becomingprojects may require professional concrete finishers
more important for high-quality concrete production.to accomplish the task within the time frame
They introduce very high turbulence into the mix andprovided. Before calling a concrete company, be sure
achieve about 95% homogeneity at only around 30to have finishers on site and ready to pour, and don't
seconds mixing time per batch.forget to obtain any permits necessary in your area.
A large commercial concrete mixer truck is used forYou can find a concrete mixer like this one at XG
mixing and transporting large volumes of concrete forPower. XG Power 9 cubic foot Concrete Mixer with
use on a building site. For smaller volumes ofSubaru Robin 9HP Engine
concrete, typically up to two cubic yards (1.83 cubicThis heavy duty concrete mixer has a large 12 cubic
meters), a portable concrete mixer is sufficient. Aft. drum volume with a 9 cubic foot mix capacity.
portable concrete mixer is typically powered byFeatures a powerful 9 HP Subaru Robin EX27 engine.
electricity and sits on a base with wheels for easierThick steel drums with rolled reinforced pour lips for
transport. The rotating drum can be tilted down soreliable mixing. Reinforced hand wheel makes dumping
that mixed concrete can be poured into aeasier and provides greater control during mix
wheelbarrow.discharge. Ventilated cowls for long-lasting
A typical concrete mixer uses a revolving drum toprofessional use. Thick towpole with pintile style hitch.
mix the components. For smaller volume worksSpecifications:
portable concrete mixers are often used so that the* Drum volume: 12 cubic feet (350 Liters)
concrete can be made at the construction site, giving* Mixing capacity: 9 cubic feet (260 Liters)
the workers ample time to use the concrete before* Drum diameter: 30 inches
it hardens. An alternative to a machine is mixing* Drum opening: 18 inches
concrete or concrete by hand. This is usually done in* Pneumatic wheel diameter: 12 inches
a wheelbarrow; however, several companies have* Hand wheel diameter: 24 inches
recently begun to sell modified tarps for this purpose.* Axle width: 48 inches
For homeowners attempting small concrete projects* Barrel pulley: 14.