Choosing a trailer-mounted concrete line pump

  • Choosing a trailer-mounted concrete line pump

    Trailer-mounted line pumps for concrete pouring come in a variety of designs that need to be considered carefully if you want to make sure you get the best machine for your specific job.

    Factors to consider when choosing your trailer-mounted concrete line pump include:
    • Type of concrete mix you’ll be working with.
    • Your output rate requirements.
    • Different valve systems.
    • Ease of towing.
    • Ease of maintenance.
    • Pump options.

    However, the first question that occurs to you will probably be…

    Should I buy or rent my line pump ?

    Unless you’ll be using your line pump a lot, it typically makes sense financially to hire the machine – buying your pump will entail the expense of long-term maintenance and repairs.
    Work out how many hours you’re likely to use your pump over a year, and then compare the cost of buying with average hourly rental prices.
    One advantage of renting your machine is that a good line pump hire contractor will be able to supply you with a qualified technician to operate it for maximum efficiency.

    Concrete mixes
    Some line pumps are designed for particular types of concrete mix while others can handle a greater variety.
    The maximum aggregate size your pump can work with typically dictates the type of mix it can handle.
    For instance, you’ll need a machine that can cope with large coarse aggregate if you’re pouring for structural elements like slabs.

    Output rate considerations

    A common and often costly mistake when choosing a trailer-mounted concrete line pump is getting a machine with a higher output rate than you need, especially if you’ll be pouring thin overlays.
    You also need to consider the capabilities of your crew, who will need to keep up with the output rate of your line pump – critical for jobs like decorative concreting, when time is of the essence.
    If you’re going to be doing decorative stamped concrete work, a line pump with a variable output rate may be your best option.

    Valve systems of line pumps
    Different valve or piston systems are used to propel the concrete from the hopper of the pump through the delivery line, including rock or ball valves.
    Some of these systems are proprietary brands while others are more generic. Ask your pump supplier for details about the performance capabilities of the valve/piston system their machine uses.

    Is the pump easy and safe to tow?
    A standard pickup truck should be able to tow your trailer easily and safely, but it’s best to check to make sure.
    Ask to see specifications such as dimensions of the pump and towing weights., and check whether there are features such as
    • Heavy-duty frame with torsion bar suspension.
    • Stop/directional tail lights.

    Pump maintenance
    If you’re buying your line pump, you need to know how easy it is to maintain in good condition, which will depend on considerations such as:
    • Type of piston/valve.
    • The number of parts susceptible to wear and tear.
    • Ease of access to components.
    • Whether there’s a central lubricating system.
    • Whether the hopper is removable or hinged for easy cleaning.

    Line pump options
    Trailer pups come with a variety of options that give you flexibility in matching the pump’s capabilities to your particular job. These options typically include:
    • Remote control.
    • Hopper agitator.
    • Chemical additive pump.
    • Gas, diesel or electric engine.

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