What is a Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck?
A self loading concrete mixer truck, also widely recognized as a self loading concrete mixing machine or a self loading concrete mixer is a type of concrete mixing equipment that combines self metering, self-loading, self-mixing, short-distance transportation, self-unloading, and other functions on a vehicle chassis.
The concept aims to generate concrete materials that are flexible to varied projections simply and efficiently.
Self-loading mixing truck is especially suitable for small and medium-scale engineering projects and some special terrains where common concrete mixing machinery cannot be used due to its high efficiency, compact structure, flexibility, simple, convenient operation, improved manufacturing performance, time-saving and labor-saving features, and many more.
Self loading concrete mixer trucks are a form of one-of-a-kind small concrete mixing equipment that may be classified into many varieties based on how they are loaded.
These self-loading mixers are all-terrain devices that may be utilized in canal projection, commercial construction, residential construction, industrial development, and other construction projects.
Background Information
With the widespread use of diverse concrete materials in the contemporary construction industry, an increasing number of technologies for combining raw materials such as cement, sand, stones, water, and additives into concrete materials that suit a variety of application criteria have been developed.
People used to mix concrete by hand at first. The need for concrete materials is expanding as the scope of the contemporary building sector continues to grow. Simply said, the handwork process is out of step with market needs.
As a result, numerous concrete mixing machinery and equipment have replaced the manual mixing technique, considerably increasing production efficiency.
Concrete mixers are big drum-shaped or pan-shaped mixing equipment that is often used in these mixers. Some of them are appropriate for large-scale building projection sites due to their great products, while others are appropriate for minor projects.
Self-loading concrete mixers were created to meet the concrete requirements of rugged terrain (rough terrain concrete mixer), tunnels, caverns, and other areas where standard concrete mixing machines cannot reach.
Self-loading mixers are becoming more popular with consumers in the construction industry because of their versatility, efficiency, compactness, and cheap cost.
What is the Price of a Self Loading Concrete Mixer Machine?
The cost of self loading concrete mixer truck varies between $20000 and $75000, depending on the model. The price of a pan-type self-loading concrete mixer ranges between $12000 and $20000, whilst the price of a drum-type range between $20000 and $75000.
How could investors discover and choose a good self loading concrete mixer truck in the face of such a large price difference? The first thing you must determine is what variables influence the pricing of concrete mixer trucks. The following points are for your reference purposes:
What Factors Influence the Pricing of a Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck?
Brands and Manufacturers
The cost of a self loading concrete mixer truck varies depending on the manufacturer and model. Some manufacturers include the value of after-sales service in the price of the mixer, making the price seem to be exorbitant.
However, in terms of long-term use and maintenance, this may be more cost-effective than cheaper options.
There are some producers that produce the same high-quality items as the large brands, but the price may be lower brand equity and brand impact.
This necessitates a thorough examination of the product’s performance in all areas. It is not required to choose high-priced major brand mixer trucks as long as they are appropriate for our current financial condition.
The Mr. Right we sought is one with high cost-effective performance.
The Cost of Raw Materials
The price of a self loading mixer truck fluctuates in response to variations in the price of raw materials, particularly steel. Steel accounts for about 90% of the weight of a self-loading mixer truck.
The price of the self-loading truck skeleton’s steel structure, particularly certain wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant steel elements, has a direct impact on the price of self-mixing concrete trucks.
Supply and Demand in the Market
Commodity prices are affected by changes in market supply and demand. This basic approach is also applicable to self loading concrete mixer trucks.
If the market demand for self loading concrete mixer truck exceeds the supply from local manufacturers, the price would rise accordingly. Otherwise, it will fall.
Regional Distinction
There are also geographical variations in the cost of self loading concrete mixer truck. If a region has fewer self loading concrete mixer truck producers and strong demand, the price of a self-loading mixer truck will surely be high. In the end, it is influenced by the variables of supply and demand.
Capacity for Production
The manufacturing capacity of self loading mixer truck is the most critical element influencing their pricing. Self-loading trucks with big production capacities, like other kinds of concrete mixing equipment, are more costly than those with lower capacities.
When selecting a self loading mixer truck, the quantity of concrete required must be calculated to establish the output. Finding a product with a sufficient output size is one of the greatest options.
Distinctions in Configuration
In general, different manufacturers’ self loading mixer truck have varied setups. Using Luton as an example, in addition to being separated according to output capacity, Luton produced a range of self-loading products with varied configurations based on the basic configuration, to fulfill the needs of more clients.
Those mixer trucks with more complex configurations will, of course, be more costly. Check out the tables below.
Standard Configuration of Luton Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck
Model |
LT-1.2 |
LT-1.8 |
LT-2 |
LT-2.6 |
LT-3.5 |
LT-4 |
LT-5.5 |
LT-6.5 |
Discharge Capacity (m3) |
1.2 |
1.8 |
2 |
2.6 |
3.5 |
4 |
5.5 |
6.5 |
Engine Model (Famous brand) |
supercharged engine |
4102 Turbo-charged |
4105 Turbo- charged |
4108 Turbo- charged |
6110 Turbo- charged |
6105Â Pressure boost |
||
Rated Power |
55KW |
78KW |
78KW |
78KW |
85KW |
91KW |
110KW |
92KW |
Gear |
2Â forward 2Â back |
2forward 2 back |
2forward 2back |
4forward 4Â back |
2forward 2Â back |
2forward 2back |
2forward 2Â back |
4forward 4 back |
Oil tank |
16 liters |
|||||||
Reducer |
KY07-2-0 |
HJ80-43 |
KY07-5-J |
|||||
Water tank |
400L |
500L |
500L |
500L |
620L |
660L |
860L |
1465L |
Water supply |
Time relay |
|||||||
Drum rotate |
270º |
290º |
Special Configuration of Luton Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck
 Model |
Capacity |
Engine Model (famous brand ) |
Rated Power |
Gear |
Oil tank |
Reducer |
Water tank |
Water supply |
Drum rotate |
LT-2.6 |
2.6m3 |
4102 Turbo- charged |
78KW |
4forward 4back |
16 liters |
HJ80-43 |
500L |
Time relay |
270º |
LT-2.6A |
4forward  4back |
270º |
|||||||
LT-2.6C |
4forward 4back |
270º synchronize with drive cab |
|||||||
LT-2.6D |
4forward 4back |
460L |
180ºsynchronize with drive cab Two way driving |
||||||
LT-3.5A |
3.5m3 |
4105 Turbo- charged |
85KW |
2forward 2 back |
16 liters |
HJ80-43 |
620L |
Time relay |
270º |
LT-3.5B |
4forward 2 back |
270º |
|||||||
LT-3.5C |
4forward 2back |
270º synchronize with drive cab |
|||||||
LT-3.5D |
4forward 2 back |
180º synchronize with drive cab Two way driving |
|||||||
LT-4.0A |
4.0m3 |
4108 Turbo- charged  |
91KW |
2forward 2 back |
16 liters  |
HJ80-43 |
920L |
Time relay  |
270º |
LT-4.0B |
4.0m3 |
91KW |
4forward 2 back |
270º |
|||||
LT-4.0C |
4.0m3 |
91KW |
2forward 4 back |
270º synchronize with drive cab |
|||||
LT-4.0D |
4.0m3 |
91KW |
4forward 2 back |
180º synchronize with drive cab Two way driving |
Buying a Used Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck
In reality, there is not much difference in the cost of purchasing a new self loading mixer truck and a used one. As a result, purchasing a used self loading concrete mixing machine is not advised.
This can be attributed to the following reasons:
- For starters, the service life of a secondhand mixer truck is unknown.
If there is a problem with the engine of the used mixer truck you purchase, you must pay for repairs. This raises your purchase price.
- Secondly, there is excessive fuel usage.
Mixer trucks are for everyday construction use.
The longer they are utilized, the worse the truck’s wear and tear become. The most obvious difference is that the used mixer consumes more fuel.
- Finally, after-sales support is not guaranteed.
When acquiring a used mixer truck, you can only get after-sales support based on the terms agreed upon in advance by the buyer and seller.
According to current national legislation, “second-hand products” are not covered by the “Three Guarantees.” Only when customers and the used automobile market have faith in one another are guaranteed sales and after-sales support can consumers consider second-hand mixer trucks.
Related: Diesel Self Loading Concrete Mixer
How Many Different Kinds of Self-Loading Concrete Mixer Trucks are Available?
Luton can supply various types of self loading concrete mixer.
According to the Production Capacity: Small to large
To begin, there are about eight kinds of discharge capacity in self-loading concrete mixers: 1.2m3,1.8 m3, 2 m3, 2.6 m3, 3.5 m3, 4.0 m3, 5.5 m3, and 6.5 m3.
- Self-loading mixer vehicles with capacities less than 3.5m3 are often referred to as small self loading concrete mixer truck or mini self loading concrete mixer truck.
- Medium-size self-loading mixer trucks have capacities ranging from 4.0 m3 to 5.5 m3.
- Those with a capacity of 6.5 m3 are referred to as big-size self-loading mixer trucks.
Customers’ diverse requests are properly met by many output possibilities. It is expected that, with the unwavering efforts of engineers and designers, new models of self-loading concrete mixer truck would be developed in the future to offer users better services.
According to the operating methods: Batch and Continuous
Second, self-loading concrete mixer trucks are classified into two types based on their operating methods: batch mixers and continuous mixers.
- For batch type, the four procedures of feeding, weighing, stirring, and discharging of a self-loading mixer truck are performed periodically, implying that materials are combined in sections.
Because this technique of mixing weighs the elements more precisely, the quality of the concrete products is greater and more exact. This is the manufacturing process used by the majority of self-loading mixer trucks.
- While the continuous mixers constantly feed and stir ingredients in a lengthy mixing drum, the concrete manufacturing output continues indefinitely after the self loading concrete mixer truck is begun.
Because the productivity is greater than that of the periodic mixer type, this continuous mixer type is better suited for huge projects such as dams, skyscrapers, bridges, and so on that demand constant consumption of concrete. These concrete mixing machines are also used to make low-slump concrete for pavements.
According to the driving types:
In self-loading mixer trucks, there are two driving modes:
- Two-wheel driveÂ
- Four-wheel drive
Technically, two-wheel drive is extensively utilized in standard automobiles, but in self loading mixer truck, it is currently replaced with a four-wheel drive for a more powerful engine that can handle all types of terrain.
According to the mixing techniques – free fall mixing and forced mixing
There are two sorts of mixing techniques based on various mixing methods:
- Free-fall mixing
- Forced mixing
The free-fall type self-loading truck mixer also referred to as a gratify mixer or drum mixer, feeds materials into a mixing drum and elevates them to a particular height using mixing blades fitted in the drum before allowing the contents to fall freely by gravity.
Materials are constantly raised up and dropped in the drum in this manner until fully and evenly churned.
This kind of self loading truck mixer is frequently employed in the production of plastic or semi-plastic concrete.
A forced-type truck mixer stirs materials by distributing mixing blades equally along a rotating axis.
This mixing technique, which ensures that the mortar is totally evenly mixed and has a good mixing quality, is an effective batching method that is ideal for dry hard concrete.
According to the shape of mixer:
There are two kinds:
- Pan mixers
- Drum mixers
Due to structural constraints, pan-type self loading concrete mixer trucks typically have a production capacity below 2m3 per batch.
A drum-type mixer is used in self-loading truck mixers with a capacity of more than 2m3.
Nowadays, the highest output capacity of a drum mixer truck is 6.5m3.
All drum mixers are free to fall mixers, while pan mixers are forced mixers.
More and more self-loading mixer trucks are being introduced, with the sole objective of providing more and more advanced concrete raw materials, as well as efficient and easy operation for contemporary building projects and clients.
What Are The Primary Parts Of A Self Loading Mixer Truck?
The self loading concrete mixer truck, like standard concrete mixing equipment, has four major functional parts; the distinction is that it also features a unique driving unit for the transportation function.
Let’s become acquainted with these vital functioning components.
Loading Mechanism
A self loading mixer truck’s loading mechanism consists of a hydraulic shovel that can conveniently and precisely put materials into the mixer drum. The hydraulic shovel on the Luton self loading concrete mixer truck is equipped with blades to cut the cement bags as they are loaded. The hydraulic shovels’ capabilities vary based on the mixer truck’s load-bearing capability.
System of Measurement
A self loading concrete mixer truck’s weighing system is made up of automated weighing equipment that manages and shows the weight of the material. The loading arms are outfitted with automated weighing sensors. Weighing takes place throughout the loading process. In addition, operators may see the weighing results immediately on the display screen in the operating cab.
The weighing machine accurately measures aggregate materials and ensures that ingredients meet client specifications. That is one of the benefits that customers get when they choose self-loading mixer trucks.
Water measurement accuracy is also an important feature of a concrete mixer truck. The precision management of the water-cement ratio not only has a direct impact on the plasticity and other concrete production processes, but it also has a significant impact on the strength and other quality of the concrete.
To measure water, the Luton self loading concrete mixer truck uses a time relay, which is often used in the dynamic measurement.
The electromagnetic flowmeter controls the mixer’s water input, which may be seen on the display screen in the operating cab.
Users can conveniently activate the water pump from the driver’s seat.
System of Mixing
As previously said, self loading concrete mixer trucks are classified into two types: drum type and pan type.
Double-spiral mixing screws and a convex bottom are placed on Luton drum-type self-loading mixer trucks to guarantee that the mixture is fully uniformly batched.
This mixing drum is driven by a powerful motor that produces a homogeneous mixture and high-quality concrete.
The geometrical capacity of the mixing drum may range from 1700L to 9000L, and the drum rotation speed can range from 13 to 16.5 revolutions per minute, corresponding to varying production capacities (from 1.2m3 per batch to 6.5m3 per batch).
The mixer is stationary in pan-type self-loading mixer vehicles. The power device provides rotational torque to the mixing shaft in the pan, and the mixing shaft causes the mixing blades to revolve in the mixing drum, causing the material to be spun, tumbled, and thoroughly mixed.
After the power unit extracts the powerful energy from the diesel engine, it passes via the hydraulic motor to drive the reducer, which provides powerful torque to the stirring shaft.
These two kinds of mixers, each with their own distinct qualities, perform an important part in concrete mixing activity.
System of Unloading
The concrete unloading mechanism of a drum-type self-loading mixing truck rotates, providing clients with a variety of unloading locations. And, in the operating room, a control handle may simply perform these unloading procedures and angle adjustments.
The mixing drum’s rotation angle range is as large as 270°-290°, encompassing practically the whole working area and making concrete paving operations in a variety of topographical situations possible.
Some concrete mixer truck types have the operating cabin and the mixing drum mounted on the same platform for synchronous rotation, making it easier for the operator to monitor and manage the working process.
That is more practical and efficient.
There are two double-acting jacks at the bottom of the drum that may elevate the inclined mixing drum to a horizontal position to allow for faster material emptying.
The concrete may be emptied directly from the mixing drum or discharged to any chosen location through the detachable unloading chute with a manually adjustable lever.
However, the unloading chute’s adjustment angle range is restricted to 90° and cannot be synced with the tilting operation of the mixing drum.
As usual, Luton self loading concrete mixer trucks come with two detachable chutes.
The pan-type mixer truck has a more flexible discharge port design because the location and amount of the discharge port may be changed based on the real demands of the customers.
The Transiting System
The self loading mixer truck is equipped with a four-wheel-drive system, allowing it to function in practically any difficult terrain on all construction sites.
Mixer trucks are outfitted with high-performance engineering tires, allowing them to transport concrete materials steadily and for an extended period.
What Is The Operation Of A Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck?
When a self loading mixer truck is used to create concrete on-site, only one operator and one auxiliary worker are required to complete the full operating process, which is easy and convenient, saving time and personnel. Our experts are responsible for designing such highly integrated automated mixing equipment and steady process control.
Its work process is finished in a single step and is the product of several functional systems working collaboratively. Next, let’s look at a drum-type concrete mixer truck to understand how it works!
Materials for Loading
Loading supplies is unquestionably the first stage.
The operator of the self loading mixer truck starts the diesel engine and the whole operating system in the operation cab without involving too many personnel and then pulls the gear lever.
The mechanical arms at the front of the truck push the bucket loader to load cement, sand, and other raw materials under the forceful drive of the hydraulic pump.
Materials Measurement
The raw materials are elevated to a specified height by arms, the electronic weighing system switch is activated, and the mixer truck enters the material weighing process, the second phase in the whole working process.
Actually, there are two separate measurement systems: aggregate weighing and water measuring. Normally, the two systems operate independently and concurrently.
The self loading concrete mixer truck is equipped with an electrical weighing mechanism and a display instrument for aggregate weighing, allowing operators to get the result directly and quickly. The foundation of optimal ingredient quality is accurate weighing results.
Simultaneously time, water is measured by an electromagnetic flow meter, and the water supply may be viewed on the operating cab’s display screen.
To support water, operators may quickly engage the water pump using the driver’s seat.
The system provides instruction during measurement, and the water supply pump begins.
The relay begins timing at this point. When the measurement reaches the predetermined value, the system sends an order to the operator to turn off the water supply pump, and the measurement is completed.
When the loader reaches its highest position, the hydraulic control system receives a signal to open the discharge door at the loader’s bottom, and the weighted aggregate is discharged into the mixer.
The third stage has begun at this point.
Material Blending
Material mixing is the third and most important phase in the whole concrete manufacturing process. The loader unloads the weighted material into the slowly revolving mixing drum while simultaneously adding water to the mixing drum.
To properly tumble and stir the Materials, the mixing blades are developed and mounted on the inside wall of the mixing drum. Materials sink with gravity until a homogenous concrete mix is created.
This procedure normally takes between 2 and 5 minutes.
Concrete Unloading
The fourth phase is the unloading procedure. During this step, the operator uses the operating lever to reverse the rotation of the mixing drum. The concrete mortar will be expelled from the drum as a result of the mixing blades.
The concrete mixing drum may be rotated horizontally by 270° using the slewing support mechanism on the chassis.
A detachable chute, which is positioned at the outlet of the mixing drum and increases the unloading distance, is sometimes required.
Furthermore, the chute may be turned mostly 90°, which increases the paving surface.
All of the aforementioned achieve full-area concrete paving.
Cleaning Mixing Truck
Finally, cleaning is an important working phase that should not be overlooked.
The water tank is pressurized by the braking system’s air reservoir. Furthermore, the pressured water flows may be utilized to clean the mixing tank system, loading port, and unloading system, among other things.
The most fundamental daily maintenance for mixer trucks is keeping them clean.
Why Do Consumers Choose A Self-Loading Concrete Mixer?
Why are more and more customers opting for self loading concrete mixer truck nowadays? It is entirely due to its exceptional performance and benefits. As an example, consider the Luton self loading concrete mixer truck.
Luton Self Loading Concrete Mixer Truck Features
Discharge Capacity: 1.2m3, 1.8m3, 2.0m3, 2.6m3, 3.5m3, 4.0m3, 5.5m3, and 6.5m3.
Engine Type: Use well-known local and international brand supercharged engines such as Yuchai, Fawxichai, Yunnei, Weichai Deutz, and so on.
Rated Power: 55kw, 78kw, 85kw, 91kw, 92kw, 116kw, etc.
4 forward 4 back, 2 forward 2 back, or 4 forward 2 back gear.
The oil tank has a capacity of 1.6 liters.
Water tank: use a time relay to measure and regulate the level of water. Use well-known local and international brands.
Drum rotation: The counterweight installed on the heavy-duty saddle may be hydraulically swiveled at 270°/290° and automatically secured by a hydraulic brake.
Advantages
Self-loading mixer trucks are often used in new rural and urban construction, tunnels, ports, airports, high-speed rail stations, remote locations without power, intermediate projects, farmer house building, rural roads, reservoirs, irrigation, mines, rural roads, bridges, and so on.
What makes it the concrete mixing machine that investors want to buy? The solution might be found below.
1. Several functions in one
The self loading concrete mixer truck merges multiple functional mechanical types of equipment, such as a mixer, loader, and transporter, on a specific vehicle, reducing the number of equipment and saving money.
2. High Productivity
As an example, consider the Luton 4.0 m3 truck. It can produce a batch of concrete every 12 minutes on average. If it runs constantly for 10 hours, the daily concrete production will be 500 tons, which is multiple times that of a standard mixer. hence It is more effective.
3. Cost-Effective
It employs a unique hydraulic rod-hinged bucket that only needs one cab operator and one auxiliary worker to enable quick material loading, saving time and personnel.
4. All-terrain Construction Equipment with a Strong Engine
The self-loading mixer truck is powered by a diesel engine and hydraulic pumps, which enable all work operations to be completed without the need for electricity.
Because of its small design, it is ideal for construction environments with no power supply and limited space, such as isolated alpine places and tight tunnels.
Self-loading mixer trucks are all-terrain construction equipment since they have a four-wheel-drive system.
5. Rapid Cost Recovery
With a small form, many functions, and simple and easy operation, a self loading concrete mixer truck can be swiftly put into service, ensuring that investors return their expenses soon.
6. Superior Product Quality
Self concrete mixing loader with electrical weighing system ensures concrete quality and may satisfy particular requirements of varied projects.
7. Discharge Flexibility
Aside from loading, weighing, and mixing, a self loading concrete mixing truck may also be used to discharge concrete on-site.
Concrete may be guided into a waiting mold located practically anywhere around the mixer truck thanks to the design of the rotating mixing drum and the associated chute. It is so adaptable that it can do many projects that a standard concrete truck cannot.
8. Simple Operation and Dependable Quality
Loading, mixing, rotation speed, and mixing direction of the mixing drum may all be readily controlled from the truck’s cabin. These automated and automatic controls not only save investors time and personnel but also make the production process simple to execute and give a dependable assurance for the manufacture of concrete materials that match customer quality criteria.
In general, self-loading mixer trucks are very efficient, cost-effective, fully functioning, and safe. They are quite popular since they play an important role in small and medium-sized projects. No one, in my opinion, would resist such a mixer with all of its benefits.
The Distinctions Between Self-Loading Mixer Trucks And Other Types of Concrete Trucks
At the moment, the self loading concrete mixer truck and the concrete mixer truck are two of the most famous concrete mixer trucks.
They are both practical engineering construction trucks capable of mixing and transporting concrete as well as supplying construction supplies to engineering construction sites.
However, the self-loading mixer truck is more than that; it also features feeding, measuring, and unloading capabilities.
- In the absence of a loading truck, a self-loading mixing truck may feed raw materials via a loading bucket positioned on the front of the vehicle.
- Unlike conventional concrete mixing trucks, the self-loading mixing truck has a weighing mechanism and an operating display panel. As a result, operators may have immediate access to the real loading condition.
- In the case of a self-loading mixing truck, the cab is the focal point of the whole system. The operator’s view in the cab is excellent, and there is no visual blind spot that may lead to an operating mishap.
- The majority of concrete mixer trucks are integrated. However, some self-contained concrete mixing vehicles are articulated. Because of its lower turning radius, this kind of structure design is more suited for building sites with limited space.
The Top Self-Mixing Concrete Truck Manufacturer
There are many famouns self loading concrete mixer manufacturers:
Fiori Group
Fiori Group, headquartered in Finale Emilia (MO) Italy, designs, develops and produces off-road Concrete Batching Vehicles and Dumpers for the construction sector.
The Luton Group
Luton Group is a well-known Chinese brand in the production of construction equipment. Luton Group today offers outstanding design, high quality, and considerate services in the construction equipment business, with over 20 years of design and production expertise.
Luton’s products include a concrete batching plant, concrete pump, self loading concrete mixer truck, asphalt mixing plant, dry mix mortar plant, and a crushing plant, among others.
Schwing Stetter India, founded in 1998 as a part of the Schwing Group of Companies GmbH, produces concrete construction equipment.
Macons
Macons is an Indian firm that focuses on supplying different construction equipment and collaborates with SO.CA.GE, an Italian business founded in 1974 that specializes in the manufacturing of metallic components and truck-mounted cranes.
Apollo
Self-loading mixer producer Apollo Inffratech Pvt Ltd is a joint venture between Italy’s CARMIX and India’s Apollo Inffratech Pvt Ltd.