The mixing time of concrete in batching plant is a key parameter that directly affects the quality and performance of concrete. The length of the mixing time needs to be determined based on a variety of factors, including the strength grade of the concrete, the type of mixer, the mixing volume, and the type of concrete. In a concrete batching plant, the mixing time usually starts from the time all materials are loaded into the mixer and starts mixing until the unloading begins. The length of this period should be no less than 2 minutes, and should not exceed 3 minutes. This is to ensure that the various materials in the concrete can be fully mixed and evenly mixed to achieve the expected strength and performance requirements.
The mixing time of concrete batching plant is composed of 3 parts:
1. Soaking time
Before mixing concrete, raw materials such as aggregates and cement need to be soaked for a period of time. This soaking time is generally about 1-2 minutes. This allows the raw materials to fully absorb water and ensure that the quality of the mixed concrete is more uniform.
2. Mixing time
Mixing time is an important factor affecting the quality of concrete. Generally speaking, a mixing time of about 60 seconds is more appropriate. If the mixing time is too short, the aggregates, cement and other raw materials in the concrete are not fully mixed, resulting in insufficient concrete strength; if the mixing time is too long, the longitudinal cracking and strength reduction of the concrete will occur.
3. Unloading time
Unloading time refers to the time it takes for concrete to be unloaded from the mixer into the transit mixer truck. Generally speaking, it is more appropriate to control the unloading time to about 90 seconds. If the unloading time is too short, it will affect the uniformity of the concrete; if the unloading time is too long, the concrete will harden, thus affecting its fluidity and plasticity.
It should be noted that different concrete mix ratios, the quality of raw materials and other factors will affect the mixing time of concrete in batching plant. Therefore, the specific mixing time needs to be adjusted according to the on-site conditions. During the mixing process, it is necessary to ensure that the concrete is fully mixed and evenly mixed to ensure the quality and performance of the concrete.