Carmix was recently involved in the construction of a paved pedestrian way at Oakland Park, FL.
Concrete is a common material in the field of constructing roads, highways, bridges, and airport runways. In addition, concrete is also commonly used for paving driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
To create concrete for pavement construction, a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates (such as sand and gravel) is typically used. The proportions of these materials can be adjusted to achieve the desired strength and durability of the finished product. Other materials, such as pigments, may also be added to give the concrete a specific color. Once the concrete is mixed and placed in its final location, it is allowed to cure before it is ready for use.
There are certain stages to every concrete construction and pavement is no different.
Stages of concrete pavement construction:
Excavation and grading: The first step in constructing a concrete pavement is to excavate and grade the site to the desired level and shape. This involves removing any excess dirt or debris, leveling the ground, and compacting it to ensure a stable foundation.
Base preparation: Once the site has been graded, a base layer of material such as crushed rock or compacted soil is added to provide a stable foundation for the concrete pavement.
Formwork, or temporary structures used to hold wet concrete in place until it sets, is installed. This may include wooden or metal forms, stakes, and braces.
Rebar, or reinforcing steel bars, is then placed in the formwork to provide additional strength and stability to the concrete pavement.
Concrete placement: The final step in the construction process is the placement of the concrete. This is typically done using a concrete mixer truck, which loads the concrete at a batching plant facility and transports it to the work area. The concrete is then placed in the formwork and spread using screeds and hand tools. However, in our case, Carmix 3500TC was chosen as a single source of concrete for this project. It did everything: loading of components, mixing, delivery to the jobsite and placement of fresh concrete.
Finishing and curing: After the concrete has been placed, it must be finished and cured. This involves using tools to smooth and level the surface, and then applying a curing compound to protect the concrete as it dries and hardens. The curing process typically takes several days to complete, and the pavement should not be used until it has fully cured.
There are some aspects of concrete construction related to Florida region which should be taken into account at the planning and execution stages of every project.
One of the reasons Carmix self loading concrete mixer is so popular in Florida and gaining it`s popularity in the other US regions is certain difficulties related to ordering concrete from a batch plant.
For example in Miami area, customers face several difficulties in ordering concrete some of which include:
Finding a reputable and reliable concrete supplier: It’s important to do your research and find a reputable and reliable supplier to ensure that you get high-quality concrete that meets your project’s specifications.
Getting accurate estimates: It can be challenging to get accurate estimates for the amount of concrete you need, as there are many factors that can affect the amount of concrete required, such as the size and shape of the area being covered, the thickness of the slab, and any special finishes or additives that may be needed.
Ensuring timely delivery: It’s important to coordinate with the supplier to ensure that the concrete is delivered on time and at the right temperature, as concrete can lose strength if it’s too cold or hot when it’s poured.
Dealing with weather delays: Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or strong winds, can cause delays in the delivery and placement of concrete.
Unreasonably long lead times: Sometimes one will have to place an order weeks in advance to receive the needed amount of concrete.
Challenges of concreting in South Florida:
Certain problems with the curing process of concrete, as excess moisture can prevent the concrete from drying properly. This can lead to cracks and other issues with the finished product.
High temperatures: The hot and humid climate in south Florida can also make it difficult to pour concrete, as high temperatures can cause the concrete to dry too quickly, which can lead to a less durable and less stable finished product.
Poor soil conditions: The soil in south Florida is often sandy and prone to erosion, which can make it difficult to pour concrete foundations and other structures. This can require special techniques and materials to ensure that the concrete is properly supported and does not sink or shift over time.
Coastal erosion: The coastal areas of south Florida are particularly vulnerable to erosion, which can make it challenging to pour concrete structures near the water. Special measures may be required to protect against the effects of erosion and ensure that the structure remains stable over time.
Hurricane damage: The strong winds and heavy rain associated with hurricanes can cause significant damage to concrete structures in south Florida. This can require additional measures to ensure that the concrete is able to withstand the forces of a hurricane, including reinforced foundations.
As oppose, concrete production with Carmix self loading concrete mixer can benefit most of the construction projects by:
Increased efficiency: Carmix self loading concrete mixers are designed to load, mix, and discharge concrete quickly and efficiently, reducing the time and labor needed for the concrete production process.
Reduced labor costs: With a self loading concrete mixer, only one operator is needed to handle the entire process, which can significantly reduce labor costs compared to traditional concrete production methods.
Increased mobility: Carmix self loading concrete mixers are mounted on a mobile chassis, which allows them to easily move from one construction site to another, providing flexibility and convenience for construction projects.
Improved quality control: With a self loading concrete mixer, the mixing process is more precise and consistent, resulting in higher quality concrete for construction projects.
Batch size: Carmix machines can produce small batches of concrete, which means you only pay for what you need. This reduces waste and allows you to get the exact amount of concrete you need, saving money on excess material.
Reduced material waste: Carmix machines are designed to mix concrete to precise specifications, which means there is less waste of materials. This can save money on costly ingredients such as cement, sand, and aggregate.
Transportation: Carmix machines can mix and transport concrete to the job site, reducing the need for external transportation. This can save money on fuel and transportation costs.
