Concrete Vs. Mortar Mixer
Concrete mixers or cement mixers are machines that combine cement, sand, gravel and water to form concrete. They typically have a revolving container which mixes the components. Mortar mixers are similar to concrete mixers and are also designed to mix materials. The main difference is that they mix mortar and not aggregate (sand and gravel). Does this Spark an idea?
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Concrete Mixer Facts
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Concrete mixers come in a variety of sizes, depending on the needs of the construction project, according to GaltTech.com. For example, companies and homeowners typically use cement mixer trucks so that more ingredients can be combined at a faster rate. On the other hand, smaller projects such as patios and driveways will use portable concrete mixers which are smaller and easier to operate.
Concrete Mixer Features
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Concrete mixers mix at an angle and therefore the revolving drum is not entirely used all at once. According to GaltTech.com, each concrete mixer uses only about two-thirds of its capacity for actual mixing. The Stow Concrete mixers are some of the more popular concrete mixers on the market. They come in 4, 6, and 9 cubic feet capacities and prices range from $1,500 to $3,000.
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Mortar Mixer Facts
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The three types of mortar mixers are gas, electric and diesel. Portable gas mortar mixers are used on both small and large mortar jobs. They range in price from $2,200 to $8,000, depending on specifications. Electric mortar mixers are recommended for individuals who are looking for mobility and are always working near an electrical outlet, according to ConstructionComplete.com. Their price range is between $1,900 and $10,500. Diesel mortar mixers are used for high-demand mixing operations on remodeling jobs and new construction projects. Their price range is between $2,000 and $11,000.
Mortar Mixer Features
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All mortar mixers should be operated on a level surface to ensure an even mixing of building materials. The mix should be added first, according to DoItYourself.com. Water should be added to the mixer slowly in order to create the right consistency and to not make the mixture too diluted. Electric mortar mixers should also be grounded prior to operation to prevent electrocution.
Considerations
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While concrete mixers are typically used to mix harsher materials such as rocks and sand, mortar mixers are used to mix softer, finer building ingredients such as plaster, mortar and stucco. According to ConstructionComplete.com, it is possible to mix mortar in a concrete mixer, but mixing coarser materials in a mortar mixer is not recommended. If a construction project requires one machine to do both, a concrete mixer is the best choice.
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References
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