Pumped Concrete

A concrete pumping system consists of three primary components: a hopper that receives concrete from a mixer, a pump that propels the concrete forward, and pipelines that deliver it to the placement location. This setup enables concrete to be transported over long distances to difficult-to-access sites such as deep foundation pits.

In a direct-acting pump, the piston movement creates gravity and suction that draws concrete into the pump through the inlet valve. As the piston moves forward, it pushes the concrete into the pipeline and out through the outlet valve. Direct-acting pumps can deliver concrete up to 1500 feet horizontally and 140 feet vertically.

Direct-acting pumps use piston movement to push concrete, while squeeze pumps use rotating blades to feed concrete from the hopper into a flexible pipe. Revolving rollers then squeeze the concrete forward to the delivery pipe. Squeeze pumps are truck-mounted and typically deliver concrete up to 300 feet horizontally and 100 feet vertically.

The pipe diameter must be three times larger than the maximum aggregate size in the concrete. This sizing ensures smooth transport and reduces frictional resistance within the pipes. Proper diameter selection is crucial for efficient concrete delivery and prevents blockages during pumping operations.

A concrete mix with a slump between one and a half and four inches is ideal for pumping. Mixes that are too dry cause high frictional resistance in the pipes, while excessively wet mixes may result in segregation. Proper mix consistency ensures efficient pumping and maintains concrete quality.

Truck-mounted squeeze pumps use rotating blades to move concrete from the hopper into a flexible pipe, then employ revolving rollers to squeeze it forward. These pumps are equipped with a folding boom that extends to deliver concrete to elevated or distant locations, reaching up to 300 feet horizontally and 100 feet vertically.

Overly dry concrete mixes create high frictional resistance within the pipes, making pumping difficult and potentially damaging equipment. Conversely, excessively wet mixes are prone to segregation, where aggregate particles separate from the cement paste. Maintaining proper slump between one and a half and four inches prevents these issues and ensures successful placing concrete.