Whether you work in construction or simply enjoy the DIY applications of a concrete mixer, it can’t hurt to be offered a few pro tips to help you better use these machines more effectively. In this brief guide, we will delve into some useful tricks that should ensure you are getting the most out of your mixer. Additionally, to the end of this article we will also provide you with an interesting DIY project that you can attempt, which will put your concrete mixer skills to the test.
With BS Powers, you have a huge selection of high-quality concrete and cement mixers, as well as an impressive catalogue of other hardware and construction tools. Whatever project or job you are undertaking, there is no doubt that we have the equipment you need to get the job done. So, if you are looking to take your concrete mixer know-how to the next level than keep reading as we share our favourite tips with you.
Tips And Tricks For Concrete Mixer Mastery
As you may already know, concrete mixers have an unparalleled ability to hasten the construction process and ensure that you meet deadlines. Any type of project can benefit from the use of a mixer, as it can be strenuous and tedious to mix the concrete by hand. With that in mind, let’s jump into a few recommendations that will no doubt stand you in good stead, regardless of your prior experience with a concrete mixer.
Make Sure The Worksite Is Suitably Prepared
As is the case with most projects, you will want to ensure that the area you are working with is adequately set up for concrete pouring. This could include tasks like preparing the area of placement, cordoning the designated area off, and pounding the ground to reach to make sure that it is adequately level. Completing these jobs beforehand can significantly speed up the entire process and help you stay on track with your deadlines. While some people like to ‘wing it’, it is usually better to fully plan and organise your project before starting any concrete pouring.
Wear The Correct Safety Gear
Safety is the number one priority, any and all steps should be taken to mitigate the possibility of injuries or accidents. If you are working with others, they should also be properly equipped for the task at hand. Standard equipment includes goggles, work gloves, respirators, and boots. The gloves and respirators are far and away the most crucial pieces of safety gear, as powdered concrete can damage your lungs, eyes and hands as the dust particles can quite easily cause irritation or damage.
Keep The Concrete Mixer Close At Hand
Concrete hardens at a rapid rate, so you will want to ensure that the mixer is positioned as close to the work site as possible. A shorter distance will make transporting the concrete much simpler, enabling you to make more trips with shorter intervals and help to avoid any symptoms of fatigue from the heavy load. Whenever possible, try to work smarter rather than harder.
Preform A Thorough Check On The Mixer Before Use
This may not be necessary with every use of your concrete mixer, but it definitely helps to make sure that the machine is functioning as intended, as well as encourage the longevity of the mixer itself. Before turning it on, examine the mixer’s parts to check for any obstructions or potential dangers. Have a look at the blades of the machine and watch out for bent blades because they create issues with other components of the mixer. These quick checks can help you steer clear of unfortunate and costly repairs in the future.
Comprehensively Coat The Outside Of The Mixer
Concrete is extremely tough to remove from any surface, so we highly suggest that you apply a thin coat of industrial oil to the outside of the machine to stop any concrete from hardening on the exterior. Many veterans in the construction industry like to place a light coat of fuel into the mixing drum before mixing – using diesel, as petrol will alter the consistency of the mix, which should be avoided. This has a similar effect to the industrial oil and should make sure that the mixer’s components do not stick together and become entangled with its own insides.
Find Stable Ground
Have a look around your immediate vicinity and place your mixer on a stable, horizontal surface, as opposed to a sloped or irregular position. Even when the surface is tarred or coated, it is always a good idea to place a sturdy piece of hardboard underneath the machine for added stability and a lowered chance of spillage. When the blades of a concrete mixer are turning, the machine moves around, which warrants that you have a firm foundation. Additionally, this will help with the consistency of the concrete mixture because if it is at an angle, it may not mix the components equally.
Take Steps To Ensure The Motor Stays Clean
Not everyone is aware of this tip, but a concrete mixer should only be utilised outdoors, in the open air. This is because in a confined space, the concrete dust particles do not have anywhere to circulate, so they often end up in the machine’s motor. Over time, these particles can damage the mixer. However, if you have already used the mixer inside, don’t worry, you can utilise an air compressor to get rid of any concrete dust that might have already settled on the engine, this will leave your mixer’s engine clean and rearing to go. A clean engine is the best way to make sure that your mixer is operating at optimal capacity, it also comes with the added bonus of a lowered repair bill.
Apply Grease To The Gears Regularly
If you use your mixer often, it is a good idea to frequently grease the gears, pulleys, and other moving components to proactively work against the stress caused by friction. With constant use, all the mixing and turning inside the machine can eventually wear the gears and other vital fixtures down. With these sorts of things, it is far better to take steps to avoid any issues arising, rather than waiting for them to come up and addressing them only then. Again, this can play a huge role in increasing the lifespan of your concrete mixer.
Drain The Mixing Drum Promptly
Drain all the concrete from the drum, preferably directly after the machine stops turning. This is crucial, do not assume that the concrete will remain wet until you are done pouring, as this could prove to be a detrimental error that could result in irreparable damage. If you cannot pour it out immediately, find a disposable container and pour the concrete over for the meantime, rather than allowing the concrete to sit in the drum. As you can imagine, if the mixture does dry inside the machine, it is almost impossible to get rid of – this should be avoided at all costs.
Clean The Concrete Mixer After Every Use
For those who want to ensure that their mixer will stand the test of time, gently wash it out after each mixing cycle is complete. There are a few different ways of doing this, however, we will focus on one which is reasonably low effort and cost:
After all the concrete has been removed, place a mixture of 2 scoops of gravel with just over 10 litres of water, then turn on the mixer for between 15 and 25 minutes. If necessary, adjust the angle of the drum to guarantee that all nooks and crannies are cleaned. This should dislodge any stubborn concrete particles or other debris.
If you stick to these basic tenets of concrete mixing, you will no doubt be ready for any DIY challenge or construction project. Luckily, proper use of a mixer is not overly complicated or costly, so there aren’t many reasons not to be able to perform these simple tips and tricks. As rugged and hardy as our concrete mixers are, if you treat them well and clean them regularly, they will serve you for many years to come!
Fun DIY Projects To Try With Your Concrete Mixer
With the price of most concrete being around R100 for a bag, these kinds of DIY projects are not only cost-effective but incredibly entertaining. Let’s look at two simple projects you can try at home right now:
Concrete House Numbers
If you are thinking about taking the outside of your home or business to the next level, this is a quick and simple way to do that. All you need is some cardboard or foam to create the mould and of course, a mixer and concrete. Then craft the numbers you want from the materials we mentioned, and carefully pour the concrete mixture into the small moulds. After a short period of time, they will have hardened into snazzy numbers to be placed outside your property. If you like, you can paint or decorate them as you see fit.
Concrete Coasters
For those who love the rustic yet chic appearance of concrete, these coasters are a nifty way of adding some character to your living spaces. Again, these are remarkably easy to make, and they should last for a long time. Create a small circular mould or use an old Tupperware or round container to pour the mixed concrete into. You will want to make sure that the surfaces are flat, as glasses will need to be balanced on top – this should happen on its own as the concrete settles inside the container. If you like, you can place some glass or other decorative elements into the concrete before it dries. It really is that easy, and now you have some eye-catching new coasters to show off when your friends come around.
More Information About BS Powers
If you are searching for the ideal place to pick up a variety of equipment and tools, look no further than BS Power. We stock some of the finest brands and our catalogue includes concrete and cement mixers, generators, plate compactors, concrete cutters, rammers, engines, blowers and misters, and so much more. If you are involved in construction, landscaping, agriculture, forestry, or similar industries, we are your one-stop shop for everything you need to get the job done right.
We are based in Cape Town, South Africa, but we have happy customers all across Southern Africa, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Botswana, and Namibia! We encourage you to get in contact with us today and discover why we are the trusted establishment in South Africa.