In this article we explore the role of cement mixers in disaster response and relief efforts. We will highlight case studies where using cement mixers has allowed for rapid construction and the crucial role these machines play in rebuilding communities after natural disasters. The goal of this article is to discuss the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and resilience of using cement mixers in emergency scenarios

 

Hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes and floods. These natural disasters are unpredictable and truly devastating, leaving mass destruction and fatalities in their wake. We seem to be seeing natural disasters all around the world, and all too often, and whilst there is no way to prevent such destructive occurrences, there is an effective way to rebuild what has been lost.

 

After all the chaos, comes mass displacement. People lose their homes, infrastructure is destroyed, roads are inaccessible and debris is left everywhere. It is at this time that cement mixers become an invaluable construction asset that allow for rapid rebuilds and reconstruction, be it permanent solutions or temporary housing and relief shelters for those whose homes have been destroyed.

 

 

Cement Mixers For Rapid Rebuilding

 

Each country has their own unique disaster management program tailored to their climate and the subsequent natural occurrences they may face. For example, the parts of America that experience hurricanes and earthquakes have emergency shelters and procedures to follow in the event of a natural disaster. In South Africa, we are fortunate enough not to face earthquakes or tornadoes, but many areas have been devastated by flooding.

 

No matter what disaster we face, it is of utmost importance to have plans in place for disaster relief management, which includes ensuring access to food and clean water, shelter stations and temporary housing for those displaced. This is standard throughout the world and should be a top priority. Tents and temporary structures are quick and easy to erect, but do not provide feelings of safety and security. These structures are by no means a long term solution. This is where cement mixers become invaluable.

 

Cement structures, with simple design and affordable materials, allow for a safe haven for those displaced by natural disasters. Using cement mixers, structures can be rapidly built from scratch to offer a strong and safe space. But the mixers can also be used to help rebuild structures that have been damaged utilising wet cement, although the amount of reconstruction that can be done is highly dependent on the damage wrought.

 

Structures built using bricks, concrete and/or cement are easily the most stable and resistant of all. It is exceptionally difficult to damage cement buildings as buildings are specifically designed to be resistant to even the harshest of elements. Let’s take a look at the benefits of cement in construction:

 

Strength

 

Cement is one of the strongest and most durable building materials available to construction teams today. Strength and stability are massive factors when it comes to building materials, as they need to be able to withstand even the harshest of elements. Apart from freak occurrences or natural disasters, structures built using cement have proved to be exceptionally strong and stable against the test of time, and in the face of natural weathering.

 

Modern cement structures have been designed to better withstand the elements, heavy winds, acid rain and even erosion, when compared to wood and metal structures. The best part about cement, is that when the structures sustain damage over time and need attention, there is no need to tear down and replace elements, as cement mixers can be brought in and wet cement can be used to patch up erosion, cracks and broken layers.

 

Durable

 

As mentioned before, cement is an extremely durable material able to withstand the harsh natural elements. This is easily the biggest reason we see cement used in most of our infrastructure, creating homes, buildings like schools and hospitals, and in our roads and pavements. Cement offers years of safety and durability and requires very little maintenance. Cement is fire resistant and will not melt under high temperatures, making it a desirable material especially in fire prone areas.

 

Studies have also shown that the rigid nature and density of cement and concrete structure allow it to withstand high pressure water during floods, better than any other material. One specific study demonstrated the same or similar survival rate for wood facing a two metre high wave, steel facing a five metre high wave and cement or concrete facing an eight metre high wave. The study conclusively showed that cement had the greatest capacity to withstand water force, when compared to other common building materials.

 

It is the strongest, most durable choice and is doubly advantageous due to its low cost, making construction and repairs cheaper.

 

Cost-Effective

 

When comparing all the popular building materials, cement is easily one of the most cost effective options. This is because it is easy to acquire the materials needed to make cement. The relatively cheap nature of this building material explains why it is in such high demand and used world-wide.

 

There are instances where cement can be compared to the cost of wood for building, and wood appears to be cheaper. This can often seem like the case, before one considers the cost of wood maintenance over years, as it weathers, withers and rots when continually exposed to the elements, which in turn leads to massive replacements and repairs.

 

Cement on the other hand is long-lasting and saves money in the long run. Furthermore, it can be easily mixed and poured with the help of a cement mixer for a quick and hassle free experience. If you’re looking to get your money’s worth, then cement is the most preferred option.

 

Readily Available

 

Natural disasters like tornadoes, earthquakes and hurricanes can flatten entire communities, which leads to hundreds, if not thousands of people without housing, and in need of an alternative shelter. Whether it’s setting up a hurricane relief camp, or opening up communal spaces, it is critical for community leaders to not only find ways to shelter and protect those affected in the interim but also look for recovery solutions.

 

In times where even cement structures crumble under pressure, the first priority is rebuilding the affected areas, and this serves as another scenario where cement is a desired building material, because of its availability. Cement is always in high demand and it is always readily available. Whether for massive building projects or emergency rebuilding, one can rest assured that cement will be available when the need for reconstruction arises. With modern transportation mixers it has also become increasingly easier to transport cement to the areas that need it most.

 

Other resources like stone or timber can often be hard to come by, especially because these types of material are not as high in demand and generally require specialised manufacturers who can source these materials . This can cause major issues and delays down the road, often forcing people to choose an alternative.

 

The availability of these building materials is an extremely important factor when considering what material is needed for rebuilding after a natural disaster.

 

Rapid Rebuilding With Cement Mixer

 

Some things are easier said than done, but when it comes to building with cement, the process is straightforward, and relatively quick. For structures that are damaged beyond repair, it’s a case of starting from the ground up. Let’s explore the steps of the building process, from the foundation to the finish.

 

Site Preparation

 

In order to prepare the site for the laying of the foundation, all debris and vegetation need to be removed from the area, and the ground needs to be levelled to allow for a flat and stable base to build up from. This includes compacting the soil and following an architectural plan.

 

If a previous building stood in the space before, then there is need for removal of rubble and debris, but not necessarily for levelling, if the existing foundation is still intact.

 

Structural Preparation

 

Cement will stand as the strongest part of the building or structure, but that does not eliminate the need for other materials. Steel or wood is necessary to create the frame of the structure that will be built on to. At this point, the dimensions and shape of the structure will be visible and then be ready for cement to be added to.

 

Mixing Cement

 

Before beginning the mixing process, the cement mixer needs to be clean to ensure that no remnants of previous mixes are present as this could interfere with the consistency of the new cement batch. Following the manufacturers guidelines, the materials can then be added into the cement mixer.

 

A batch of cement is typically made using a mix of aggregates including cement, sand and gravel, with water added gradually to achieve the desired consistency as the mixer combines the wet and dry materials.

 

Transferring The Cement Mix

 

Once the correct consistency is achieved, the batch of cement needs to be poured into the structure’s framework quickly before it begins to set and harden. After the cement mixture is transferred, compacting tools are used to eliminate air bubbles in the mixture.

 

All Set

 

To avoid the cement drying too quickly, it is covered with tarps to keep moisture in and protect it from the elements. The cement needs to cure for around seven days, resulting in a stable and hardened finished product. Following this, the finishing touches may be applied, including smoothing out areas of rough cement and cleaning up the site. With the cement structure firmly in place, the next steps can be taken to transform the structure into a safe and functional space.

 

 

Cement Mixer From BS Power – Safe And Swift Building

 

Whether you are building, or rebuilding, cement is a viable and versatile material that promises strength, affordability and durability for projects of all scales.

 

BS Power supplies a range of cement mixers and other building materials, machinery and equipment, making it possible for you to acquire the necessary tools for any projects. Whether you’re looking to build, rebuild or expand, BS Power has everything you need to make your project an easy success.

 

For everything from engines to building supplies, outdoor equipment and generators, tools and heavy machinery, visit BS Power to acquire what you need to get the job done.