Concrete mixers are actively used on construction sites, but this is a useful technique for home use, especially if you need to perform large or small construction work. The choice can seem large, so finding the best option can be difficult for the average user. For this, it is important to understand the basic parameters of the equipment, all the pros and cons of the models. The article describes the best concrete mixers in 2020 with all their features.
Types of concrete mixers
It is possible to determine which concrete mixer is better for purchase if you understand the main characteristics of its purpose:
- The main goals and tasks that the equipment will perform.
- Mix volume for kneading at a time.
- Consistency type of working fluids.
All models of the working method are gravitational and forced. One category is more suitable for a large building site, the second is recommended for home use, so it is recommended to know each device separately before buying.
Forced concrete mixers
In these devices, the drum does not rotate, mixing is carried out by rotating the screw installed in the middle of the drum. This feature is ideal for creating not only liquid concrete or other mixture, but also viscous consistencies. Continuous screw rotation helps to achieve better uniformity.
It is recommended to use the technique on large construction sites where it is necessary to receive solutions in large volumes. The purchase of equipment for household needs, including pouring a path in the country and other small activities, is a waste of funds and unjustified results.
Gravity Concrete Mixers
This option is perfect for home use. The essence of the work lies in the rotation of the drum, and the blades inside it do not move. With the help of the device, it turns out, make a solution without manual force for repair or construction. The technique is characterized by optimal dimensions, simple operation and allows you to create concrete of different plasticity in the required volume. When choosing, remember that forced concrete mixers are an excellent choice for large objects and construction sites, and gravity models are suitable for everyday tasks.
Girth gear or gear units
When choosing a gravity type concrete mixer, it is recommended to look at the device that transmits torque from the motor to the drum. On sale you can find gear and girth gear units. Both options differ in price, method of operation, and durability and reliability.
Gearbox models
The technique is characterized by a free-standing gearbox, which is covered by a part of the housing, so it is not exposed to sand and other particles. Such machines are considered more reliable and make less noise during operation, but they need to be used more carefully. In case of failure of such a mechanism, repairs are not only expensive, but also difficult, and sometimes it is easier to buy another concrete mixer.
Coronal models
This technique is characterized by an open mechanism, since the crown is fixed around the drum. The solution and its other components constantly get on it, so the degree of wear increases significantly, but the technique is unpretentious in work and replacement. Replacement and repair is very easy.
Often, in everyday life and construction, it is precisely the crown concrete mixers that are used, which are popular because of their simplicity and understandable technology, and maintainability. Parts are sold in any store with similar equipment, the crown can be easily ordered on the Internet, and you do not need to call a repairman to fix it.
When choosing a crown, it is worth understanding that the element is made of different materials that will be responsible for the reliability and service life:
- Cast iron. Such material is used by many manufacturers for devices from the middle price segment. A crown made of cast iron is easy to make, since everything is poured through the mold, and after cooling, the workpiece almost does not require additional processing. The price of raw materials is small, the production method is simple, so the cost of the finished crown is low, which is the main advantage. But this product has many disadvantages. The material itself can easily break under mechanical influence, the teeth wear off over time, and a lot of noise appears. It is recommended to use the technique with this crown for rare and one-time use with light load.
- Steel. This material for the crown is characterized by strength and reliability, as well as medium abrasion. In addition, steel does not burst during impact or fall, and the volume is several times lower. The main disadvantage is the overestimated cost, since steel is initially heated for production, after which it is poured into shape and left to cool. After extraction, turning and grinding are carried out. All processes are expensive, this is reflected in the market price, but the product is strong and durable. Concrete mixers with a steel crown are recommended for daily work for several hours. The technique can be used indoors or outdoors.
- Plastic. These crowns are considered the cheapest because they are simply made. The main plus is the minimum weight and quiet operation. However, the prongs wear out quickly when used. Concrete mixers with such an element are recommended for purchase for small construction activities in everyday life.
- Polyamide. A modern material that is lightweight and highly durable. Technique with such crowns has been produced recently, in addition, polyamide is not affected by temperatures, therefore, loads are allowed in summer, the teeth are preserved, there is no deformation. Rust does not form from moisture, there is no reaction to abrasives. Concrete mixers with polyamide crowns are ideal for every day of use for long periods of time inside buildings or outdoors.
Any crown is a ring with teeth that are installed around the drum. With the help of the device, the drum begins to move. During operation, the concrete mixer creates friction and vibrations that lead to abrasion of the teeth, therefore, after wear, the part must be replaced.
Rating of the best concrete mixers
The review contains the most popular and demanded devices. Concrete mixers have passed various tests, so the rating is based on the opinions of experts and users.
Lebedyan SBR-132N / 220
This device is characterized as a high-speed model, which for 1 batch can make 64 liters of ready-made mixture. Wheels are mounted on the body, which makes it easier to move around the working area. Securely attaches with a handle. All equipment is characterized by additional bolt reinforcement.
pros:
- Very quiet operation of the equipment.
- High speed of creating a quality solution.
- All parts are covered, so the durability of the equipment is increased.
- The drum spins around itself, so the unloading of the solution is simplified, it is also easy to make loading and turning, without changing the position of the equipment. A particularly important parameter for working in narrow conditions.
- Easy to assemble and use.
Minuses:
- There is no lock to change the tilt, so when working, you will need to set it in one position or hold the machine yourself.
- The motor housing gets very hot during operation.
CALIBER TSB-140
A device from a domestic manufacturer, which is great for small tasks or one-time use in everyday life. In addition, the equipment can withstand certain loads, therefore it is often used in capital construction. The company has installed special blades that differ in appearance, so mixing inside the drum is very effective.
The mixer is powered from a 220 V network. The engine is characterized by an economical current consumption. The dimensions of the equipment are small, the device takes up little space in a change house or garage. The crown is cast iron, with a total capacity of 0.6 kW, a tank for 140 liters, and the ready volume of the mixture for 1 batch is up to 75 liters. It is a great choice for those looking for the best concrete mixers for their home.
Pros:
- High degree of reliability.
- Economical consumption of electricity.
- High-quality solution formation.
Minuses:
- The motor power is not the greatest.
- In some cases, it quickly breaks down, but this happens under the condition of improper operation.
Lebedyan SBR-132A.5 95446
Concrete mixer with a cast iron crown, which is designed for weight for 1 batch of 64 kg. The finished solution will be made in just a couple of minutes. The device can work with fractions up to 4 cm. The technique is characterized by the possibility of partial use of the finished mass as needed due to the fixation of the angle of inclination.
pros:
- High strength of body and drum.
- Quality blades with long service life.
- It can work even under overload without significant remarks. Based on the reviews, users with an allowable weight rate of 64 kg loaded all 100 kg.
Minuses:
- There is no protection for the drive shaft and its bearing, so after work it is necessary to clean it from the solution.
- During operation, the motor cover starts to heat up, indicating poor performance of the fans.
- During use, the starter often breaks down, but this is easily repaired after buying a new one.
HELMUT CM160
This option is suitable for people who need to get the solution quickly and efficiently. The crown is made of cast iron, the drum is steel, and the engine is protected by a casing that excludes the ingress of debris and moisture. The device for obtaining the solution is well thought out, which makes it possible to accurately pour out and take out the mixture. 0.65 kW engine, weight of the entire installation is almost 53 kg.
pros:
- Optimum power.
- Good performance - 105 liters.
- There is corrosion protection.
- Convenient operation.
- High build quality.
- The bearing is replaceable.
No shortcomings were found.
Limex 165 LS 024-1008
The device is of European production, with high productivity, because at one time, it turns out, to make up to 110 liters of the mixture. A cast-iron crown is installed inside. The device is characterized by the possibility of dosed supply of components and unloading of the solution using clamps. There are wheels and a handle for moving.
pros:
- Large drum size.
- Convenient extraction of the mixture in the required volumes due to the presence of a clamp.
- The presence of wheels and a handle, which simplifies transportation.
Minuses:
- Cannot withstand overload, as the bearing quickly fails.
- The motor cover gets very hot.
- Sometimes the start key breaks.
Zitrek B1510 FK 024-1002
An excellent unit in terms of performance, giving a ready-made solution in 2 minutes in an amount of 110 liters with a drum volume of 150 liters. The crown is cast iron, and the rotation is carried out using a 1 kW motor. It is recommended to buy this model for small construction or light household tasks. It can be used to create heavy solutions.
Pros:
- Create mixes quickly and evenly.
- Optimum engine power.
- May create heavy solutions.
- There are wheels, which makes it easier to move around the site.
- Convenient dimensions for transportation after purchase.
Minuses:
- After assembly, not all bolts match the hole sizes, so the user has to enlarge them himself.
- Loud functioning.
- Cleaning should always be done after the main process.
VORTEX BM-130
A device with a 550 W motor, the crown is made of cast iron, and the performance of the device is optimal for everyday life. The equipment is characterized by low weight and dimensions, therefore, it simplifies transportation over the construction area. The engine is equipped with protection and a sturdy casing, so with proper care and use, the model will last for many years. For additional rigidity, special ribs are installed, which make the equipment stronger.
A convenient wheel is placed for turning over and getting ready mix. Model with a volume of 200 liters, which is great not only for home, but also for professional construction.
pros:
- Reinforced structure that uses ribs to increase rigidity.
- Optimal weight and small dimensions.
- Overheating protection.
- The engine is protected by a casing.
In some cases, the equipment at the point of sale differs from that declared by the manufacturer.
Zitrek B 1308 FK 024-1000
The body of this concrete mixer is actually very durable and reliable. It is shockproof, reinforced, includes a cast iron crown and is suitable for small construction sites or at home. For 1 batch makes 80 liters of concrete, it takes about 2 minutes. There is a handle and wheels on the body, which makes it easy to move.
pros:
- Very robust construction.
- Easy transportation of equipment.
- Easy assembly after purchase.
- Quiet operation.
The main drawback in the assembly, if the process is carried out for the first time, many users feel the difficulty.
Kronwerk MS-130 95437
Powerful and efficient equipment for the preparation of building mixtures up to 130 liters. Concrete mixer weighing 50 kg with small dimensions, which makes it easy to carry and transport. The motor and main control elements are protected by a cover that does not allow moisture or dirt to enter. The design is durable, there are additional stiffeners on the body for increased strength. At the bottom there are wheels that can withstand heavy loads. Work from a 220 V network, the motor is at 0.55 W.
pros:
- Robust model.
- Simple and easy operation.
- Excellent performance.
- Quiet work.
No cons were identified.
PARMA B-181-E
The concrete mixer is very comfortable, powerful and efficient. Recommended for buying a home or a large construction site. The first thing to highlight is reliability, the whole structure is equipped with ribs to increase rigidity, which help to perform basic tasks without fail, regardless of conditions.
750 W motor protected by a plastic housing. The technique itself is easy to apply and move around the object. The crown is made of cast iron.
pros:
- Optimum power.
- Good performance - 100 liters per session.
- Possibility to fix the angle of inclination of the drum using a mechanism for the leg.
- There is a protective coating.
- The drum and other parts are shockproof.
Minuses not defined.
Having studied the rating of all models, it becomes easier to understand which concrete mixer is better to buy for home use, preparing various mixtures in certain volumes.
