When it comes to transporting and delivering concrete for construction projects, two primary options are available: volumetric cement mixers and ready mix trucks. While both serve the same core purpose, they operate quite differently, offering distinct advantages depending on the specific needs of a job.
1. Operation and Mixing Process
Volumetric Cement Mixers: These trucks are equipped with an on-board concrete mixer that allows for the production of fresh concrete on-site. The mixer is designed to hold separate ingredients—cement, sand, aggregates, and water—which are mixed only when needed. The operator can control the exact proportions of the mix and adjust the volume of concrete as the job progresses.
Ready Mix Trucks: Ready mix trucks, on the other hand, are pre-loaded with concrete that has already been mixed at a batch plant before transport. The concrete is delivered ready to pour, and the driver ensures that the mixture remains in a liquid state through constant rotation during transit. However, the truck cannot adjust the mix once it’s loaded, making it a one-size-fits-all solution.
2. Flexibility
Volumetric Cement Mixers: These mixers offer superior flexibility. They allow for customization of the mix at the job site, which is especially beneficial for projects requiring various strengths of concrete or when precise adjustments are needed due to changing environmental conditions. Additionally, if the full load isn’t used, any excess concrete can be disposed of on-site without waste.
Ready Mix Trucks: These trucks offer limited flexibility. Once the concrete is mixed, it’s essentially locked in, and you must take the entire batch regardless of how much is needed. Over-ordering can result in waste, and under-ordering can delay the project.
3. Cost Efficiency
Volumetric Cement Mixers: While the initial cost of using a volumetric mixer might be higher due to the on-site mixing, it tends to be more cost-effective for smaller or irregular projects. Since you only pay for what you use and can adjust the mix on-site, there is less waste and more precise control over the material.
Ready Mix Trucks: Ready mix trucks can be more cost-efficient for large, bulk orders because the concrete is mixed in advance and delivered in one go. However, you’re often charged for the entire volume ordered, regardless of whether all of it is used.
4. Quality Control
Volumetric Cement Mixers: The ability to mix on-site allows for better quality control as the ingredients are measured accurately and the mix can be adjusted in real-time to account for changing conditions.
Ready Mix Trucks: The quality of the concrete is guaranteed by the batch plant, but any delays or issues during transportation can affect the final product. Additionally, once the concrete starts to set, it can’t be corrected.
Conclusion
In summary, both volumetric cement mixers and ready mix trucks have their own unique advantages. Volumetric mixers are best for smaller, more customized jobs, offering flexibility, cost savings, and quality control. Ready mix trucks, while less flexible, are ideal for large, bulk projects that require fast, pre-mixed concrete. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on the size, scope, and specific needs of the construction project.
