As the old saying goes, “Time is money”, and when it comes to a construction site, this old adage couldn’t be truer. Having poor-quality construction equipment will cost you both money and precious time.

 

So, whether you’re in the process of building a house slab, or simply paving a driveway, or pouring a foundation on a commercial job, having a concrete mixer that is able to deliver consistent results is vital. Using a mixer that is subpar can, and often will, lead to delays, inconsistencies in your mixes, and even unnecessary maintenance costs.

 

The type of concrete mixer you opt for will have a direct impact on your workflow, the quality of the concrete produced, and your long-term ROI (return on investment). But what are some of the most important factors you need to consider before investing in a high-quality concrete mixer? Well, firstly, you need to consider the engine type and the construction. Choosing the wrong concrete mixer could lead to mid-project stalls, overheating of the mixer after a few loads, or even wasting costly raw materials due to uneven mixes.

 

In this BS Power guide, we are going to walk you through everything you need to be on the lookout for when buying your next concrete mixer, from the different drum designs and motor specs to supplier support and price to performance ratios.

 

The Heart of any Concrete Mixer – The Drum

 

Before you even consider any other factors, start with the drum. This part of a concrete mixer is where all the action happens, and where the quality of the mix will shine. What You Should Look for In a Concrete Mixer Drum?

 

Drum Capacity VS Working Volume

 

First thing that we recommend is that you always consider that the actual usable mix volume amounts to only 50% of the mixer’s drum size. For example, a 360L mixer will commonly only yield around 180L of wet concrete per mixed batch.

 

The Materials Used in The Build

 

We always recommend looking for concrete mixers with thick-gauge steel drums (minimum of 3mm) that come with reinforced rims for extra durability. Additionally, mixers with powder-coated finishes can help protect against rust.

 

The Mixing Paddles

 

Another important factor of any half-decent mixer is the mixing paddles. Opt for a mixer that has strong, welded-in paddles, and this will ensure thorough mixing. Mixers that have bolted paddles tend not to perform in high-use settings like commercial jobs, as they tend to loosen over time and use.

 

Drum Angle & The Tilting Mechanism

 

A mixer that has adjustable angles gives you the ability to fine-tune your mix consistency, and a heavy-duty tilting frame will help you with smoother, headache-free and safer emptying of the drum.  Avoid mixers with thin steel drums or overly lightweight mixers; they will wear down fast under job site conditions in South Africa.

 

The Driving Force Behind the Mix – Engine Power & Type

 

Any decent concrete mixer worth mentioning is only as good as the engine powering it. For the South African construction job site, especially those in remote or rural areas, choosing the right engine type is vital to your job productivity.

 

The Petrol-Powered Mixer vs. the Electric Concrete Mixer

 

Okay, now while we obviously do know that electric concrete mixers are often more affordable and quieter to use, they do have one major drawback: they rely on stable access to electricity.  With SA’s constant irritation that is loadshedding and the rampant unpredictability of infrastructure in rural areas, the petrol-powered concrete mixer has become the standard for smaller to mid-size contractors as they offer independence, mobility and raw power.

 

Petrol Concrete Mixers are ideal for mobile use, high-output batch mixing, and for use on uneven surfaces. Petrol concrete mixers commonly come with 4-stroke engines with better torque and fuel efficiency. The electric concrete mixer is more suitable for indoor use (home DIY) and fixed setups in workshops, as they are limited by the availability of power and typically have far lower drum capacity.

 

 

What Should You Look for In a Petrol Concrete Mixer?

 

This product offers high-torque output, making it suitable for managing wet, heavy mixes. It features an air-cooled, four-stroke engine design intended to provide consistent operation over extended periods. Maintenance is straightforward; for example, draining oil and accessing filters is easy. Additionally, spare parts such as filters are readily available, ensuring components can be obtained without difficulty.

 

Built To Withstand the Job Site – The Frame and Chassis Design

 

Right, so beyond the engine and drum type, a concrete mixer is only as reliable as the frame that holds it all together. When looking at South African job sites, where the terrain is rough, frequent transport and demanding workloads are the name of the game, you’ll want a concrete mixer that is built to handle the punishment.

 

What Should You Look for in A Concrete Mixer Frame?

 

When selecting concrete mixers, prioritise those with heavy-duty steel construction featuring fully welded, powder-coated frames for lasting rust resistance, and steer clear of aluminium or thin frames that may bend or crack.

 

Reinforced drum supports are important, as they help the mixers withstand vibration, especially in petrol-powered models, reducing frame fatigue and contributing to a longer lifespan. Additionally, well-designed mixers distribute drum weight efficiently over the axle, which minimises stress on the wheels and ensures better tow stability.

 

The Wheels and Mobility of The Mixer

 

Consider a concrete mixer that comes with pneumatic tyres, as this helps absorb shock on gravel, dirt, and the rubble commonly found on construction sites. Also, it will help if the mixer comes with wheel locking mechanisms, as this provides an extra level of safety when working on sloped surfaces.  Lastly, also look for a concrete mixer that comes with towing points and foldable tow bars, as these will come in handy if your crew is notably mobile.

 

At BS Power, we only offer concrete mixers with frames that have been carefully designed to meet all of these real-world demands found within the construction sector. That includes models such as the Baumax 360L, which comes with pneumatic wheels, a low centre of gravity, and a trailer-style chassis that is reinforced.

 

Concrete Mixer Ease of Use & Maintenance – The Features That Make Your Life Easier on Site

 

Right, so the best concrete mixer isn’t just about power and torque, but also about practicality. In South Africa (and everywhere else), construction crews work according to tight schedules, and any piece of equipment that can slow down processes can ultimately derail timelines, inflate budgets, and even compromise the quality of concrete produced.

 

So, when you are looking for a concrete mixer, here’s what you should probably prioritise in terms of ease of use. Check whether the mixer’s handles and levers are ergonomically located and that they can be used while wearing safety gloves. Also, be sure to look for models that come with tilt-lock mechanisms for unloading safely.

 

NO-ONE wants a lengthy setup process before mixing batches for 12 hours, so look for a concrete mixer that has foldable tow bars, sturdy stands, and quick drum locking mechanisms, as this will save you loads of time between batches and new job sites.

 

Probably a no-brainer, but ensure that the concrete mixer you opt for has a drum that has internal volume guides to help you prevent overloading your mixer.

 

 

Maintenance-Friendly Designs Are Key

 

Good mixers offer convenient maintenance features such as easy access to bearings, oil sumps, and air filters. Removable guards enable quick inspection of belts and pulleys. For better durability, it’s advisable to select models made from powder-coated or galvanised steel, which helps protect against harsh weather conditions and concrete splatter.

 

The Price VS The Value – How to Make the Best Bang for Your Buck

 

When you’re perusing for your own concrete mixer, it might be tempting to look for one at the lowest price point. But we all know that price alone does not always amount to real value, especially if you have to deal with a machine that is not aligned with your workflow.

 

The real cost of any piece of equipment is not solely the price; it also includes downtime, fuel consumption, serviceability, and, of course, how well the mixer performs on site.

 

Now we know that a low-cost import might save you some money on the day of purchase, but it could lack proper and decent warranty cover, availability of parts and a reliable engine.

 

We recommend going for brands that have a reputation, and one that is globally recognisable, like Honda or Baumax, as these BS Power stocked brands come with better fuel efficiency, far fewer breakdowns, and a much stronger resale value.

 

Your Supplier Matters – Why Buying from The Right One Counts

 

Even the best of concrete mixers can become a costly problem if you don’t purchase from reputable suppliers. Regardless of whether you need one for home DIY or are a small to medium contractor, your supplier plays a very important role, not just at the till, but throughout the lifespan of the piece of equipment you’re buying.

 

At BS Power, we are proud to be an expert when it comes to construction equipment, so you should purchase from us; however, if you find yourself in a situation where you are buying from elsewhere.

 

When selecting a supplier, look for one with expertise in construction equipment, particularly mixers, as they can offer expert guidance on equipment selection.

 

It’s important to ensure your supplier also stocks essential spare parts such as belts, paddles, and filters for regular maintenance. Additionally, consider suppliers who provide technical and after-sales support, including in-house service centres or repair services.

 

 

Why Should You Trust Us at BS Power as a South African Contractor?

 

Here at BS Power, we don’t just stock powerful tools; we also supply our customers with long-term confidence. That’s why the petrol-powered concrete mixers from Baumax and Honda that we stock come backed by real expertise, fast turnaround times for spares, and personalised after-sales support. So don’t skimp on what might be the most important piece of construction tools you’ll own, visit the BS Power webstore today and purchase peace of mind.