A Guide to Self-Loading Mixer Truck Operation: Tips and Best Practices

Self-feeding stirring transporter has the independent feeding, metering, stirring and transportation function, which is more and more widely applied in modern construction projects and improves the construction efficiency and flexibility. However, correct operation is the secret to that the equipment have efficient, safe operation and long service life. Self-feeding stirring transporters are used to self-feeding of the material into, use to the single direction of drill of stirring of transport can fall of material to a long distance, carry out this paper states self-feeding stirring transporter of the action specification and best practice for operators provide a reference.

Preparation before operation

Pre-operation preparation is the basis for operators' safety and equipment's normal operation. Operators must adhere to the inspection steps:

Fluid level check: Check the height of hydraulic oil, coolant, fuel, lubricating oil and other fluid levels to see if it falls within the specified range. Low liquid level may degrade device functionality and can cause damage.

Tire: Whether the tire pressure is up to standard, observe whether the tire surface scratches or abnormal wear. There are abnormal tire conditions that impact driving safety and fuel economy.

(1) Mechanical parts detection: Check whether key parts such as mixing drum, feeding mechanism and ouputing mechanism are loose, deformed or damaged. All connectors must be tight.

Check electrical system: check whether the power of the battery is sufficient, whether the line is connected accurately, and whether the indicator and instrument are normal.

Check the safety device inspection: Brake system, steering system, lighting system, alarm device and other safety components, and whether it is good. Have seatbelts fitted and functional, fire extinguishers and so on.” Know the vehicle safe operation process and emergency treatment measures.

Material handling code

Material loading is a important operation of self feeding mixer transporter which can directly influence the performance ratio and quality of concrete. The following specs should be followed by operators:

Loading site selection: Choose a flat solid site to avoid the vehicle tilt or fall.

The loading arm action: the control loading arm, rigorous operation, to prevent damage to the loading mechanism.

Material measurement: Material loading is strictly implemented in accordance with the set concrete mix ratio, ensuring accurate measurement. Make sure that you are observing the weighing display to prevent overload or under load

When loading, normally, sand aggregate is loaded first and cement is loaded last, which can reduce cement flying and caking.

Safety advice: Pay attention to the surrounding environment during the loading process to avoid collision with other personnel or objects.

Mixing and ingredient control

Mixing is an important step in concrete production, and operators must accurately control the mixing process:

Place water control: according to the dry humidity requirements of concrete, precise control of the amount of added water. The first addition of water is the right amount, and the water amount of the concrete can be added in small quantities while mixing and observed.

Mixing time check: check the mixing time according to the specified mixing time to ensure uniform mixing of concrete. Mixing time is very important as both or more than short or long mixing time will impact the quality of concrete.

Mix direction and speed, Be sure to select the correct mixture direction and speed. Pumping by positive displacement, usually by pressure reverse discharge.

Abnormal situation processing: If there is abnormal sound or vibration in the mixing process, the mixing should be stopped immediately. Check the reason.

Transporting safely

Safety in transit is of utmost importance and operators must strictly follow traffic rules and the below precautions:

Gentle driving: Forget speed, don’t accelerate quickly; don’t brake suddenly, don’t make turns steeply, and keep the vehicle in good running condition.

Control speed: Control speed according to road and traffic conditions, especially when driving on curves, ramps or uneven roads.

The center of gravity of the vehicle seat: the center of gravity of the vehicle rises after loading concrete, and the operator should drive more carefully to prevent overturning.

Keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead of you to avoid being rear-ended.

No overload: the car needs to strictly observe its own load, do not overload, affect driving safety.

Discharge procedure

Unloading is the final step in concrete production, and inappropriate operations can cause safety accidents or waste. Operators are to ensure the following:

Choose a smooth and solid unloading site;It is best to choose a smooth road to unload, and the unloading should be smooth and safe.

Discharge port alignment: control accurately the position of the vehicle, with the discharge port aligned to the target position.

Discharge speed control: Adjust discharge speed as needed to prevent concrete splashing and blockage.

Residual cleaning: Residual concrete in the mixing drum and discharge tank should be washed in time after discharge to prevent hardening;

Operation maintenance and post-operation maintenance

Maintenance after operation is an important measure to extend the service life of the equipment. The operator shall do the following:

Clean the vehicle: Remove concrete residue from outside the vehicle and from inside the mixing tank.

The check leakage: check hydraulic system, cooling system, fuel system and circulation system, etc.

Fastening elements: Inspect and tighten all loose bolts and connectors

Parking: The vehicle must be parked on a flat and solid ground, the handbrake tightened and, if necessary, a support must be used to fix it.

Keep record running status: record the vehicle running time, fuel consumption, fault information and so on, to provide reference for the future maintenance.

Safe operation essentials

It is the first principle of the self-feeding mixer transporter operation. Operators should keep the following safety considerations in mind:

Certificate: Professional training and obtain corresponding operation qualification certificate

Wear protective equipmentBecause safety helmet, protective glasses, work clothes, etc.

Irrational operation: drunk driving, fatigue driving, and speeding are serious forbidden.

Always pay attention to the environment when operating which is to prevent collision with other people or object.

Training should include: Operators must receive regular training for safe operations to master the newest operating skills and knowledge of safety.

conclusion

Only standard operation and careful maintenance can keep the self feeding stirring transport truck to run efficiently, safely and reliably. At the same time, the operators are required to strictly follow the operating procedures and be skilled in operating the operation of good operating habits, to make full use of the advantages of the self-feeding stirring transport vehicle to contribute to the smooth progress of construction projects.