To ensure the safety and optimum performance of your self loading concrete mixer, you need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for regulated operation, paying careful attention to detail at every stage of the process. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to operate a self loading concrete mixer, which I will cover in 3 stages: pre-operation checks, operation process and post-operation procedures.
Pre-Operation Checks
To ensure safety, the equipment needs to be checked before operation.
- Visual Inspection: Conduct a thorough visual inspection for any signs of damage or wear on the mixer.
- Fluid Levels: Check and ensure adequate levels of hydraulic fluid, engine oil, coolant, and fuel.
- Tires: Inspect tires for proper inflation and any signs of damage.
- Controls and Indicators: Confirm that all controls, indicators, and gauges are functioning correctly.
- Battery: Check the battery connections and charge level.
During the Operation
The operating process of a self-loading mixer mainly consists of start-up, loading, mixing, transporting and discharging.
Engine Start-Up
Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to start the engine. And allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes to ensure smooth operation.
Loading Material
- Positioning: Position the mixer close to the material pile for easy loading and ensure it’s on stable, level ground.
- Loader Operation: Use the loader bucket to scoop the required amount of aggregates, sand, and cement.
- Proportioning: The Aimix self-loading mixer has an advanced weighing system. You can operate the display in the cab to ensure that the materials are correctly proportioned according to the mix design by operating the display in the cab.
- Water Addition: Pipe up and add water into mixing drum. Switch on the water pump, add water into drum.
Mixing Process
Activate the mixing drum using the control lever or button. Allow materials to mix for the recommended time to achieve a homogeneous mixture.
Transportation
Carefully drive the mixer to the desired location, ensuring the load is stable. Maintain a moderate speed to prevent spillage and ensure safety.
Discharging Concrete
- Positioning: Position the mixer at the designated pouring site.
- Stability: Ensure the mixer is stable and properly aligned for discharge.
- Drum Tilting: The mixing drum of the Aimix self-loading mixer can be rotated by 270°. You can tilt the mixing drum to pour the concrete into the desired area or a concrete pumpor
- Control Flow: Use the control lever to manage the flow of concrete for precise placement.
- Clean Discharge: Ensure all concrete is discharged from the drum to avoid residue buildup.
Post-Operation Procedures
In order to prolong the life of a self-loading mixer, it needs to be cleaned and maintained after working.
Cleaning the Mixer
- Drum Cleaning: Aimix mixers are usually equipped with an inbuilt high pressure water system to rinse the mixing drum with water to remove residual concrete.
- Exterior Cleaning: Clean the exterior of the mixer, paying attention to the loader bucket and other components.
Maintenance Checks
- Inspection: Inspect the mixer for any signs of damage or wear that need attention.
- Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts according to Aimix‘s guidelines.
- Fluid Levels: Recheck fluid levels and top up if necessary.
- Battery: Check battery status and connections.
Common Problems and Solutions during Operation of Self-Loading Concrete Mixers
The video below will visually show you how to operate a self-loading concrete mixer. But there are various challenges that you may encounter during operation that can affect the efficiency, quality and safety of the operation. Here are some common problems you may encounter and their solutions:
Material Buildup or Adhesion
- Add the right amount of water: Spray some water appropriately when loading material to reduce material sticking.
- Use scraper or brush: Use a scraper or brush to clean up material adhering to the equipment.
- Regular cleaning: Ensure that the mixing drum and loading hopper are thoroughly cleaned after each operation to prevent material residue.
Water System Blockage
Install filters at the water inlet to prevent debris from entering the water system. Also inspect water tanks and pipes regularly to clean them of debris and sediment.
Inconsistent Mixing
Add materials in strict accordance with the designed ratios to ensure that the mixing ratio is correct. Appropriately extend the mixing time to ensure that the materials are fully mixed.
Difficulty in Discharging
Adjust the tilt angle of the mixing drum appropriately to ensure that the concrete can flow out smoothly. And check and clean the discharge opening regularly to prevent clogging.
Proper operation and maintenance will not only extend the life of your equipment but also ensure the quality and consistency of your concrete mixes. By following these detailed steps for operation, you can ensure the safe, efficient, and effective use of your self-loading concrete mixer.
Aimix provides you with detailed operation manuals, while we have professional customer service personnel online 24 hours a day to solve problems in the process of operation in a timely manner!
