Why You Need to Know About Ready-Mix Concrete?

June 30, 2022

338 4 minutes read

Ready-Mix Concrete comes in a variety of types. Knowing the various types and properties of concrete can make the process easier. Read on to learn about the preparation process and different types of concrete.

Also, discover the different uses of ready mix concrete, how to order it, and how to deliver it to the site. After reading this article, one will have the knowledge one needs to start one’s project. If one is unsure about the process, one can consult a professional to help one choose the best type of concrete for one’s project.

Preparation of ready-mixed concrete

The procedure used for the preparation of Ready-Mix Concrete is very important because the concrete is controlled. High fluidity can be achieved by reducing the unit water content. This process can be done by mixing the concrete, poking it, and compacting it.

It is important to compact it properly or cold joints can develop. Moreover, the process of ready-mixed concrete can be more economical.

The production of Ready-Mix Concrete uses sophisticated technology and consistent methods. The equipment and processes used to produce this concrete are controlled, so the quality is always consistent.

Additionally, the admixtures and cementitious materials used are consistently monitored, so there is less risk of human errors.

The production process also requires less space for raw materials and equipment, and the costs associated with hiring equipment are lower as well. In addition, ready-mixed concrete requires less fuel and diesel, which reduces noise pollution.

Properties of ready-mixed concrete

The physical and chemical properties of cement play a critical role in the composition of Ready-Mix Concrete. The cement content determines the particle spacing and is directly related to the final properties of the concrete.

Table 4 shows the composition of different types of cement, as well as their relative proportions in the mix. The cement content also influences the strength, durability, and porosity of the concrete. The cement content varies with the purpose of use, so each batch should be evaluated separately.

The reduction of workability with Ready-Mix Concrete is associated with three different methods. Increased fineness increases water demand. Water loss from the paste occurs by evaporation or absorption. Decreased water availability results in decreased workability.

The effects of these factors interact to determine the rate at which the workability decreases. Here are some examples. Adding air-entraining agents may reduce segregation. Aggregate particles are often highly absorptive.

Depending on their type, they may be friable, abradable, or degradable. The water absorption value may exceed 100%, which means the particles can absorb more than their dry weight.

Delivery of ready-mixed concrete to a job site

If one needs to order Ready-Mix Concrete, one must give the supplier plenty of notice. For instance, it may be better if one calls a day or two ahead to schedule a delivery.

A concrete supplier that has a good reputation will send a representative to one’s job site to check the location and confirm the quantity. If possible, schedule a visit ahead of time to ensure one’s concrete is ready when one needs it.

If one’s project calls for a certain consistency or texture, ready-mixed concrete may be the best choice. Modern equipment allows suppliers to produce large batches of concrete with almost identical consistency. The process requires less time, and one will save money.

One will also be able to find ready-mixed concrete at one’s local hardware store. Depending on the size of one’s job, one might want to choose either one, but be sure to choose the one that best suits one’s needs.

Types of ready-mixed concrete

There are three basic types of ready-mix concrete: dry-batched concrete, central mixed concrete, and shrink-mixed. Each of these types has its characteristics. Transit-mixed concrete is prepared at a manufacturing plant and is mixed in the drum of the truck.

During the loading phase, the mixer rotates at a high speed. After the loading phase, the drum continues to rotate at a normal speed. Shrink-mixed concrete, on the other hand, is partially mixed in a plant mixer and the remaining mixing takes place in the drum of the truck.

A reliable ready-mix concrete supplier will send a representative to the construction site to inspect the job before delivering it. If the concrete has to travel too far to reach the job site, it will be of no use.

The contractor knows exactly what concrete mixtures he needs and places his order with suppliers. Truck mixers can transport less concrete than a dump truck, so a single delivery may not be sufficient for a large job.

Environmental impact of ready-mixed concrete

The construction industry contributes a significant amount to global emissions, and the use of concrete is the most common form of construction. As the world’s most consumed product besides water, the production of concrete must be reduced to meet international climate and environmental protection targets.

This study evaluates possible measures to reduce the environmental impact of ready-mixed concrete. Measures will be measured against the concrete’s properties and the construction process to measure their effectiveness. The results will also be used to develop an index system for the construction process.

A key raw material for ready-mixed concrete is limestone, which is found in abundance on Earth. Furthermore, most of the raw materials can be mined locally, reducing transportation waste and supporting local economies.

In addition, ready-mixed concrete can be made from other waste materials, such as concrete bags or concrete reclaimed from landfills. However, it is imperative to consider how these measures will affect the environment.