Â
The decision between an electric and diesel concrete mixer for sale goes beyond preference. Each type offers a list of factors that can positively or negatively affect your project. In this article we will discuss the key differences between the two mixers and their operational costs. We will compare environmental impact, performance and durability to aid you in making the right decision for your unique requirements and project needs.
Â
At BS Power we offer high-quality, durable concrete mixers for professional use. Our state of the art machines will boost the productivity you need for you no matter how sensitive your projects are. Let’s look at the differences these two types of concrete mixers offer.
Â
Concrete Mixer For Sale: Key Differences Between An Electric And Diesel Concrete Mixer
Â
Key operational factors such as power supply and mobility must be carefully considered. Diesel mixers offer unmatched power and mobility making them ideal to transport to off grid locations for building projects. Their independence of electrical power make them a popular choice for builders developing new areas with limited infrastructure and power sources. They are also easy to move around on site as needed.
Â
Beyond power and mobility, electrical mixers offer lower noise and emissions. Depending on local law and restrictions, electric mixers are necessary in some residential areas or conservation areas.
Â
Power Supply And Availability
Â
Diesel mixers run independently of electrical grids, making them convenient for locations without any power. Locations which operate on solar but with limited electrical output due to weather or power capacity, will benefit from using a diesel model over an electrical one. The main reason being that electrical mixers are dependent on stable power sources. This is not always possible in an off grid location or rural areas.
Â
Diesel mixers can easily be moved around without the concern of power cables, making them best suited to areas with limited infrastructure or areas where power lines have yet to be installed. In South Africa, we have experienced the impact of unreliable electricity on businesses. The sporadic nature of load-shedding can drastically delay projects in the construction industry, thus leading businesses to invest in diesel mixers.
Â
Mobility And Flexibility On Site
Â
The construction site or project site is not always well positioned for electric mixers. Farms and rural areas with limited infrastructure and power outlets will need additional power sources like generators or large batteries when using electric mixers. This will add additional costs to using the mixer for the project.
Â
Because of their independence from electricity, generally diesel machines are also cordless, making them mobile and easy to transport, whereas electric mixers have restricted movement due to cable length and power outlet availability. Equipment deployed on-site, particularly for time-sensitive projects, should be readily accessible and possess excellent mobility to ensure operational efficiency. This can alter the timeline of the project and affect the overall costs.
Â
Noise, Emissions, And Environmental Impact
Â
Diesel mixers are noisier than electric mixers. According to the noise level data provided by OMAER – diesel powered mixers can reach up to 102 A – weighted decibels, whereas electric mixers produce a decibel of 95 on the noise measurement scale. This makes electric mixers better suited to urban areas to decrease noise disturbances.
Â
Electric mixers have zero emissions during operation, whereas diesel-powered mixers produce exhaust emissions like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Electric mixers significantly reduce emissions of these oxides, considering the life cycle of these machines. Diesel mixers, although convenient in many ways, are restricted in other areas. These restrictions can impact the construction activity.
Â
The primary restriction would be that in urban and residential areas there are strict noise restrictions. This makes the electric mixer the better choice. Urban areas are also more likely to be able to provide the electrical infrastructure needed to power electric mixers and due to their lower noise levels we at BS Power believe that the electrical model would be more optimally suited to areas with these sort of restrictions.
Â
Performance, Efficiency, And Operational Costs
Â
Selecting the right mixer first involves evaluating its durability and efficiency. Second, you will also want to check the power output and mobility. This will be unique to each user and each project. Fuel and running costs are factors that should also play a significant impact in your considerations.
Â
Electrical mixers are environmentally friendly in comparison to the fuel based mixer that releases emissions into the atmosphere. Maintenance costs like fuel filter replacement, services and more will be part of routine maintenance on a fuel based concrete mixer as well. Understanding the pros and cons of each concrete mixer for sale will enable users to select a suitable machine based on their needs and project requirements.
Â
Power Output And Mixing Capacity
Â
Diesel mixers offer a higher horsepower option and deliver strong torque. This makes diesel mixers ideal for heavy duty and demanding tasks like mixing large batches of concrete, or specialized concrete that may weigh more. The durability of diesel mixers and their suitability to remote locations make them a popular choice for larger construction companies.
Â
Electric mixers may have lower horsepower, but they are still able to get the job done. Electric motors have a sustained torque level. This allows electric mixers the ability to provide users with precise control and efficient energy usage. Combined with its quieter operation and lower emissions rate, the electric mixer is a machine preferred in green conscious countries.
Â
Diesel mixers with their higher horsepower come in various sizes making them ideal for large projects where larger volumes of mixed concrete are needed. Electric mixers are also available in various sizes but are not productive in the larger sizes sometimes required by large construction projects.
Â
Fuel And Running Costs Comparison
Â
The cost of diesel is generally lower than the cost of electricity, depending on location and country. Electrical prices and diesel prices fluctuate. Diesel prices are influenced by the market unpredictability. In cases where users have alternative power generator systems like solar power systems, electric mixers are better suited, as costs can be further reduced.
Â
Users should consider the cost of electricity vs. the cost of power produced by diesel. In some cases, the cost of generating the same amount of kWh through diesel usage can be more expensive than the general kWh of electricity. To select the most cost effective mixer, it would make the most sense to accurately measure the mixer efficiency and compare the two values.
Â
Maintenance Requirements And Durability
Â
Diesel engines used in concrete mixers require regular maintenance. This routine maintenance includes oil changes, filter changes and more. Maintenance is required for optimal performance and the longevity of the machine. Oil changes are straightforward and crucial for lubricating engine components. Fuel filters should be replaced every 10 000 – 15 000 hours of use or every 6-12 months. This may differ from models.
Â
Electric mixers should also regularly be maintained through lubrication of the gears and moving parts. The mixer should be cleaned and manufacturing instructions should be followed to check power chord damage.
Â
Â
Choosing The Right Concrete Mixer For Your Project Needs
Â
Choosing the right concrete mixer is a critical decision that can significantly impact cost and project productivity. Key factors to consider are project size and capacity requirements. Long term factors such as maintenance costs and resell value might aid users in making a decision. Project location – the mobility of the mixer should be considered as well as the construction site infrastructure. Budget is another crucial factor when considering the concrete mixer price, since electric mixers are more expensive than diesel mixers. The resell value of the mixer will greatly depend on its condition, model and the market demand.
Â
Project Size And Location Considerations
Â
When looking at a concrete mixer for sale, consider the project size before making a final decision. Match your mixer type to the project scale. If your project is large and requires 500 -1000L of mixed concrete at a time – consider diesel mixers with high horsepower. Diesel mixers are better suited to large infrastructure projects like bridges, road paving and building large scale buildings.
Â
If your project is on a smaller scale and smaller quantities of concrete are required at a time – consider electric mixers. The second consideration should be site accessibility and power availability. Does your site have the infrastructure and power required for electric mixers? Is the site in a noise restricted environment or urban area? Electric mixers are best suited to smaller, indoor or urban area projects.
Â
Budget And Long-Term Investment
Â
The initial cost of electric mixers is typically 20 – 30% higher than diesel mixers, but the overall cost over a long period should be considered. Diesel mixers can be more costly due to fuel costs and maintenance costs. The predicted life cycle and running costs should be measured and compared.
Â
Electric mixers tend to have a lower resell value compared to diesel mixers. This is due to diesel mixers generally being more durable and powerful. They are also suitable for larger construction projects. Factors which also affect the resell value include the brand and model as well as the market demand.
Â
Environmental And Regulatory Factors
Â
It is essential to consider the local environmental laws and regulatory factors before purchasing a concrete mixer. Your local area will likely have guidelines for monitoring and sampling emissions from fuel burning equipment. Regulations might include testing procedures and repair notices.
Â
Air quality management By-Laws potentially prohibit any vehicles and equipment expelling dark smoke. Free acceleration methods and tests are used to determine if a machine or vehicle is emitting excessive smoke. Some local emission standards may exist that are stricter than national and provincial standards. Your local municipality will be able to provide users with the laws and regulations of the area.
Â
Â
BS Power: Making The Best Choice Of Concrete Mixer For Sale
Â
Choosing between an electric and diesel concrete mixer for sale depends on your project’s unique requirements. We recommend that a full inspection and evaluation is done of the land area where the project will take place. This evaluation will determine how mobile the mixer needs to be for you to successfully and time efficiently complete your project.
Â
Your decision will be based on the area environmental and noise pollution laws as well as your access to a sustainable power source to complete the project. For larger projects in need of mobility and independence of a power source – we recommend the 500L concrete mixer with Honda engine. This powerful machine mixes at a large capacity for your project needs. Contact our experts to find the perfect solution for your construction requirements.
Â