5 Common Mistakes in Concrete Pumping and How to Avoid Them

26th April 2024

Concrete pumping is a vital part of countless construction projects. It lets you place concrete safely and efficiently, even in hard-to-reach areas or when dealing with large volumes. But like any process, mistakes can happen. The result? Delays, safety issues, and a compromised pour.

Don't worry. With over 25 years in the concrete business, we at Wright Readymix know how to make your pour flawless. Read on for five common concrete pumping mistakes to dodge and keep your project on track!

1. Choosing the Wrong Pump

Not all pumps are created equal. They come in all sorts of sizes and configurations, from trailer-mounted boom pumps that can reach over buildings to line pumps ideal for tight spaces. Choosing the wrong pump for your project's needs, whether it's reach, volume capacity, or boom placement, can massively reduce efficiency and increase the risk of mistakes. In the worst-case scenario, it can even pose safety risks if the pump can't handle the job.

Before hiring a pump, assess your project's requirements. It's a good idea to consult with a concrete pumping professional to determine the ideal pump type and size for your specific pour. Factors to consider include:

• Volume of concrete needed
• Distance it needs to travel horizontally and vertically
• Access limitations at the pouring site

By analysing these factors and comparing them to the available pumps, it'll be a lot easier to make an informed decision about which to go with.

2. Mixing the Concrete Incorrectly

There's also the concrete mix itself to consider. An overly wet concrete mix can block pumps and lead to segregation, where the coarse and fine aggregates separate. On the flipside, a dry mix can be difficult to pump and may not achieve maximum strength when cured.

To avoid this, make sure the concrete mix design is specifically formulated for pumping applications. Work with your supplier to fine-tune the mix if needed, regularly testing the slump and keeping the flow consistent throughout the pour.

3. Rushing the Process

Like any construction project, shortcuts rarely pay off. Concrete needs time to set right. Rushing the pour can trap air bubbles inside, making the final product weaker and more prone to cracks down the road.

The key to avoiding this is to be prepared. Figure out your concrete pour time and pump truck arrival well in advance, and get the site ready beforehand so you're not scrambling when they show up. You should also communicate clearly with the supplier and pump crew to make sure everyone's on the same page about timing. This way, you'll have the time you need for the concrete to settle properly, saving you from future headaches.

4. Ignoring Weather Conditions

Mother Nature can throw a wrench in even the smoothest concrete pour. Extreme heat can accelerate the concrete's setting time, which can lead to workability issues before it's placed in the forms. Cold weather can slow down setting time, extending the curing process and potentially compromising the concrete's long-term strength.

Be prepared to adjust the mix design or pumping schedule based on the weather forecast. This may involve adding admixtures to control setting time or using insulating blankets to protect the concrete from freezing temperatures. By planning for the weather, you can make sure the concrete has the proper time to cure and achieve optimal strength.

Want to know more? Read through our complete guides to pouring in hot and cold weather!

5. Neglecting Safety Protocols

Concrete pumping involves heavy machinery and wet concrete, both of which can pose major safety hazards to workers onsite. Some of the main risks include hose blowouts or hose whipping, electrocution from touching overhead power lines with the boom, and holding valve failures.

To minimise the risk of accidents and comply with legal regulations, it's important to follow all necessary safety protocols. Here are some of the key steps to take:

• Organise a safety briefing to make sure all personnel and contractors involved understand their responsibilities
• Equip all personnel with the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, eye protection, and sturdy footwear
• Communicate clearly with the pump operator, concrete truck drivers, and ground crew to prevent misunderstandings and potential accidents

This is just a starting point, so always stay up-to-date on industry standards and don't hesitate to consult a safety expert if you have any questions.

Wright Readymix: Expert Concrete Pumping Services in the South

Looking for a concrete pumping partner you can trust? With Wright Readymix, you can avoid these pitfalls and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free experience at every stage of your project. Here's what sets us apart:

• We have a huge fleet of concrete pumps available to hire, from our boomless minipump to the largest pump in the UK. Whatever your project size or location, we have the perfect pump for you. Not sure which pump is best? We're happy to discuss your project and recommend the perfect fit.
• Our skilled operators will handle the pumping safely and efficiently, saving you the cost and hassle of hiring a third party.
• We'll work with you to supply the exact ready mix concrete you need for your project, guaranteeing the perfect consistency and volume for the job. All our mixes come with a full guarantee for added peace of mind.
• Thanks to our large service area, we're able to reach you wherever you are in the south.
• Need advice on getting the best results? We're here to share our expertise whenever you need it.

Let's get started. Get a quote online or give us a call on 01179 582090 today!

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