Concrete delivery is a crucial part of any construction project, and as the industry evolves, so do the methods of mixing and supplying concrete. One such innovation that is gaining traction across the UK is the use of volumetric concrete mixers. These mobile batching plants bring flexibility and precision to concrete delivery, particularly for complex or remote projects. If you’re wondering whether volumetric concrete is the right choice for your build, this detailed guide will help you understand its benefits and applications.
What is a Volumetric Concrete Mixer?
A volumetric concrete mixer is a specialised vehicle equipped with separate compartments for raw materials – cement, sand, aggregates, and water. Instead of delivering pre-mixed concrete, the volumetric mixer carries the raw materials to the construction site and mixes them on demand, right where you need it. This method guarantees that every batch is fresh and customised to your specifications.
The Science Behind Volumetric Mixing
Unlike traditional ready mix concrete delivery where concrete is mixed at a plant and transported, volumetric mixers calculate the exact amount of materials for each batch on-site. This process allows for real-time adjustments to the mix design, ensuring that the concrete matches specific strength, durability, and workability requirements throughout the project.
Benefits of Volumetric Concrete Mixers
- Unmatched Flexibility
- Volumetric mixers are ideal for projects with multiple pours or varying concrete requirements. Since the mix is made on site, you can change the concrete recipe instantly to suit different parts of the build, such as footings, slabs, or columns. This flexibility is especially useful for repairs, small batches, or sites with limited access.
- Reduced Waste and Cost Efficiency
- Mixing concrete on demand means you only prepare the exact quantity needed, eliminating surplus concrete that would otherwise go to waste. This reduction in waste translates to cost savings and a lower environmental impact.
- Freshness and Quality Control
- Concrete begins to cure as soon as it is mixed. With volumetric mixers, concrete is mixed fresh on-site, reducing the risk of premature setting or degradation associated with long transit times. This freshness leads to stronger, more durable concrete.
- Accessibility for Remote or Difficult Sites
- For sites where large ready mix trucks cannot easily access, volumetric mixers offer a practical solution. Their smaller size and ability to mix on-site make them well-suited to urban projects, narrow streets, or rural locations.
Cardinalis Concrete and Volumetric Concrete Delivery
Cardinalis Concrete specialises in volumetric concrete delivery services throughout Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and neighbouring regions. Their experienced drivers and operators ensure prompt, efficient service, tailoring each batch to your project’s precise needs. Whether you require small quantities or have complex mix demands, Cardinalis offers scalable solutions with expert advice and technical support.
By choosing a supplier who understands volumetric mixing, you gain access to cutting-edge concrete technology that can improve the overall quality and cost-efficiency of your project.
When is Volumetric Concrete the Best Choice?
- Projects with varied concrete needs requiring multiple mix designs
- Small or remote jobs where traditional ready mix deliveries are impractical
- Urgent repair works needing fresh, quick-mix concrete
- Sites with limited space or challenging access conditions
Volumetric concrete mixers represent a smart advancement in concrete delivery, combining adaptability with quality and cost-effectiveness. For builders and contractors in the East of England looking to optimise their concrete supply, partnering with a trusted supplier like Cardinalis Concrete ensures a smooth, reliable service customised to your unique project demands. Contact Cardinalis today to explore how volumetric concrete can benefit your next build.