In this article, we’ll guide you on how to choose a durable concrete mixer that won’t break on the first day. We’ll discuss which volume to pick, how these mixers operate, and how to use them properly, so you won’t need to rush back to the store for spare parts right after starting to use it.
What is a Concrete Mixer?
A concrete mixer is a machine used for preparing concrete and other construction mixtures. It consists of a container where materials like crushed stone, sand, water, cement, and other additives are mixed. The mixture is considered ready once all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed into a homogeneous mass.
Types of Concrete Mixers
Drum Mixers: The drum rotates around its axis, mixing the components through gravity.
Compulsory Mixers: The paddles rotate to mix the mortar.
Additionally, concrete mixers can be categorized as ring drive and gear drive mixers. Ring drive mixers are great for infrequent, home use, while the more powerful gear drive mixers are suited for larger sites where high-viscosity concrete is required.
Concrete mixers are also classified into portable and industrial models. Portable mixers are perfect for repairs and constructing small buildings, while industrial mixers are designed for preparing mortar in large quantities.
Using a concrete mixer significantly simplifies construction tasks. Mixing concrete manually is a labor-intensive process. Even if you’re planning to build a small brick fence around your house, preparing concrete by hand can quickly drain your energy. With a concrete mixer, the job gets done much faster.
Concrete mixers are not only used for building construction and laying foundations but also in constructing bridges, roads, and installing fences, as well as pouring concrete paths and sites.
How a Concrete Mixer Works
- Load the Components: Typically, this includes water, crushed stone, sand, and cement. The ratio depends on the specific “recipe” for your concrete mix.
- Start the Engine: This can be either gasoline or electric. The paddles will rotate along with the drum.
- Wait until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed into a homogeneous mass.
- If using a portable concrete mixer, carefully tilt the drum using the handle to pour the mixture into the desired location.
How to Choose a Concrete Mixer
When choosing a concrete mixer, consider the volume of the finished mortar you’ll need. For large projects requiring substantial amounts of concrete, an industrial mixer is ideal. For smaller tasks, such as home extensions or adding a second floor to your house, a compact model will be sufficient.
The output of the mortar depends on the drum volume, which typically represents about two-thirds of the total size. For example, a drum with a 120-liter capacity will yield roughly 80 liters of mixed concrete in one batch.
For home use, a mixer with a 140-160 liter capacity is usually sufficient. Aim for a minimum power of 700 W—more power is better. Without sufficient power, you’ll need to manually assist if there are more components in the drum than the mixer can handle.
A foot stopper is recommended, especially for beginners. This feature lets you rotate the mixer’s wheel with both hands while using your foot to engage the stopper below, allowing you to slow down the speed with minimal effort
TOP 3 Brands of Concrete Mixers
Altrad Belle
Altrad Belle mixers are renowned for their high-quality construction and durable materials. They ensure even mixing of the components, are easy to use, convenient to transport, and operate with low vibration and noise levels.
The range includes both portable and industrial models to meet any need. Their motors run efficiently, the equipment is safe, and repairs are straightforward. Spare parts are readily available in most cities, and service is widespread.
Prices for portable models (50-100 liters) range from UAH 6,000 to UAH 10,000, 100-200 liters models from UAH 10,000 to UAH 20,000, and professional models over 200 liters can cost up to UAH 40,000. These mixers are both affordable and high-quality.
Imer
Imer machines are more advanced. For example, some models come with a self-loading system, which speeds up the mixing process significantly, eliminating the need to manually lift and load heavy ingredients into the drum.
Additionally, certain Imer models automate the mixing process and can even monitor the quality of the mortar. The reinforced drum design is built for intensive use, and an overload protection system prevents the engine from starting if too much material is added, helping to avoid damage.
As a result, Imer machines are a bit pricier. Prices range from UAH 8,000 to UAH 15,000 for portable models, UAH 15,000 to UAH 25,000 for models with a 100-200 liter capacity, and from UAH 40,000 for industrial models with capacities over 200 liters.
ZZBO
ZZBO offers mixers specially designed for a wide range of applications, including residential and industrial construction, commercial projects, roadwork, landscaping, and repair and restoration tasks.
The brand is renowned for using high-quality steel and unique alloys that enhance the durability and corrosion resistance of their drums.
Among the advantages of ZZBO mixers is their thoughtfully designed drum shape. It improves mixing speed and the quality of the mortar while reducing material loss.
In terms of pricing, ZZBO provides a balanced range. Portable models (50-100 liters) are priced between UAH 8,000 and UAH 12,000. Models with a 200-300 liter capacity range from UAH 15,000 to UAH 25,000, and industrial mixers with capacities over 300 liters can cost up to UAH 50,000.
If you are looking for reliable equipment for mixing mortars, you can find new and used concrete mixers from leading manufacturers for any needs and any budget on the Machineryline website.