Choosing the right cement mixer for your upcoming concrete project can be a difficult task, especially when you consider the surprising variety that’s available on the market. It’s important to choose a mixer that’s specifically suited for the work you’re going to be doing in your project.
What is an ideal cement mixer for your Pennsylvania project? Here are just a few examples of some of the most important qualities to look for when looking for the best cement mixers for your projects:
- Size: The capacity of the cement mixer is one of the first characteristics you’ll need to consider. When browsing mixers, you should find information on the drum capacity listed in cubic feet. This is the amount of cement the mixer holds, but it is not exactly the same as the output—you can expect the output to be about two thirds of the capacity, because the mixer will operate while tilted and thus will almost never hold its full capacity. Larger jobs will require larger cement mixers, so you should consider what you’ll be using the mixer for and how much cement you actually need.
- Drum opening size: Consider also the size of the drum opening, which should be one of the specifications listed along with its cement capacity. Too small of a drum opening can make for a frustrating experience when you’re putting concrete into the mixer. You should look for a drum opening of at least 15 inches in diameter—if you go any smaller than that, it will start to feel a little too small and quickly become a nuisance when mixing concrete.
- Power source: Cement mixers in Pennsylvania will come in gas- or electric-powered variants. The option you choose depends on factors such as how much you need a portable piece of equipment, and whether you will have access to electric power sources where you will be using the mixer. If you want something more portable and convenient, gas is generally going to be the better option. But if you’re looking for less maintenance, going electric will be a good decision for you. There are some cement mixers that can be powered by either gas or electric, which provide greater flexibility, but you can also expect these mixers to be more expensive due to that added versatility.
- Weight: You’ll get the best results out of your cement mixer when you follow weight recommendations. If you’re able to stay below the allowed weight for your chosen cement mixer, you will be able to keep your motor lasting longer into the future. Any weight listings for the equipment will take into account both the cement and water during operation, not just the cement.
- Cost: Of course, you’re going to have a budget in mind for your cement mixer, and it’s important not to exceed any budgetary constraints. Cost shouldn’t be the main factor in your decision, but it’s certainly something to consider.
If you’re interested in learning more about the qualities you should search for in the best cement mixers in Pennsylvania, contact Central Equipment Company today.