Pumping is an efficient way of placing concrete while constructing buildings. This method is very economical and practical. This method of placing concrete proves to be very helpful while constructing high-rise buildings or while placing large slabs where the concrete truck cannot reach the concrete.

Types of concrete pumps

There are namely three types of pumps used to place concrete, namely, boom pump, line pumps and separate placing pumps. A boom truck is a self-constructed unit, which consists of a frame, a truck and pump through which it pumps concrete. This type of concrete pump is mainly used for concrete slabs and medium high-rise buildings and also for large volume commercial and industrial projects. On the other hand line pumps are versatile and portable units. They are used to pump not only structural concrete but also grout, wet screeds, mortar, shotcrete, formed concrete and sludge. Separate concrete placing booms are used as an alternative to boom truck.

Functioning of a concrete pump

The concrete is separated from the pump line with the help of certain lubricating materials such as water, cement and sand. It is very important to mix all the components in the right proportion and content. All the concrete mixtures should be specified as 'pumpable'. There are many mixtures, which are not pumpable, and hence they get clogged in the pump-line. Hence it is very essential to choose the right kind of concrete mixture. After this the concrete is discharged into a truck.

Safety precautions

While using concrete you need to undertake certain precautions. It is advisable to choose the right kind of hose. Hose are manufactured for specific applications. They are designated as a point of placement for discharge. Also you have to be conscious about the attire you wear while handling concrete pumping. The clothes you wear should be well aerated and easily allow grout to escape. It is also important to use proper system for pumping concrete. The system should be properly tied-down and should not be accident-prone. It is also advisable to check the brakes of the machine too. The system should be regularly cleaned and maintained. The clogs, if any, should be removed and the system should be regularly cleaned with the help of compressed air.

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