How does a concrete pump work?

Concrete pumps are controlled by a skilled concrete pump operator. The pump operator controls the operation, position, and output of the pump by guiding the moving arm or hose. The operator is also responsible for driving the pump to the job site, setting up the pump, cleaning the pump after use, and making any necessary repairs.

Moving Arm Pumps

A cantilever pump uses a remotely operated mechanical arm (cantilever) attached to a truck or semi-trailer to accurately place large quantities of concrete. Since the ready-mix truck can unload the concrete directly into the pump's hopper, the truck usually remains in one place throughout the pour.

The hopper has an auger to stir the concrete and keep it liquid, and a mesh grate to keep large rocks and chunks from clogging the pump.

The truck's fixed central location on the job site allows for more efficient traffic flow.

Pipeline Pumps

A line pump (also known as a ground pump) is a trailer-mounted concrete pump or truck-mounted pump that uses a series of steel or rubber hoses to deliver concrete wherever it needs to go. Concrete trucks also unload the concrete into the pump's hopper.

Both types of pumps use a two-cylinder hydraulic pump. One piston draws the liquid concrete from the hopper into the cylinder while the other piston pushes the concrete out of the discharge tube.

The valve determines which piston opens to the concrete hopper and which piston opens to the discharge tube by switching each time the piston reaches the end of the cylinder. This valve mechanism allows each cylinder to alternate between pulling concrete and pushing concrete, pumping more concrete and saving time.

However, for a concrete pump to work, the concrete mixture must be suitable for pumping. There must be enough water in the concrete to allow the mixture to pass easily through the pump and hose. Otherwise, the pump lines may become clogged.