Concrete is a fundamental building material in the construction industry, and its proper transportation and handling are crucial for ensuring that projects run smoothly and on time. The efficiency of these processes not only affects the overall timeline for the project, but also influences the quality of the final structure.
In this article, the EasyMix team will explore some of the best methods for transporting concrete to a construction site, as well as moving it around the site.
Ready-mix concrete trucks
One of the most common and efficient methods for transporting concrete to a construction site is through the use of ready-mix concrete trucks. These trucks are equipped with rotating drums that mix the concrete during transportation, ensuring it remains in a perfect, workable state until it reaches the construction site. Ready-mix concrete trucks are particularly beneficial for large projects or those in remote locations, as they offer a convenient and time-saving solution.
Volumetric concrete trucks
Unlike ready-mix trucks, volumetric concrete trucks have the capability of mixing your concrete on site right in front of you, meaning you don’t need to worry about estimating correctly how much concrete you will actually need. Choosing volumetric also means you can alter the nature of the mix on the fly, so it’s great if your project is subject to change.
Concrete pumps
Concrete pumps are versatile machines that facilitate the efficient placement of concrete at the construction site. They are particularly useful for larger buildings and projects with challenging access points. Concrete pumps can be truck-mounted or trailer-mounted, and they use a robotic boom to deliver concrete precisely where it is needed. This method reduces the need for manual labour, increases placement speed and allows for better control over the pouring process.
Belt conveyors
For sites with limited access or when dealing with smaller quantities of concrete, belt conveyors offer a practical solution. These systems use a continuous belt to transport concrete from the mixing plant to the pour site. Belt conveyors are flexible, easy to set up and can navigate through tight spaces, making them suitable for both small and large construction projects.
Wheelbarrows
On smaller construction sites or in areas with limited access for larger equipment, traditional methods like wheelbarrows can be used. While these methods may be more labour-intensive, they are cost-effective and practical for short distances, so still a great choice. Workers can load concrete into wheelbarrows at a central mixing location and transport it manually to the pour site.
Concrete buckets
For precise placement of concrete in specific areas, such as columns or formwork, concrete buckets are often used. These buckets, attached to cranes or other lifting equipment, allow for the controlled pouring of concrete exactly where it’s needed. This method is often used in conjunction with other transportation methods for a comprehensive approach to concrete placement.
EasyMix is London’s favourite concrete supplier. If you need some help with transporting concrete to a site with difficult access, don’t stress, give us a call!