Volumetric (Mobile-Mix) vs. Ready-Mix Concrete

When starting a project—whether it’s on a construction site or at home—concrete is often a key material. We’re here to explain the differences between volumetric concrete and traditional "ready-mix" concrete.

What Is Volumetric Concrete?

Volumetric concrete is mixed based on the volume of materials, rather than by weight. Specialized trucks mix the concrete on-site, with all ingredients stored in separate compartments. In contrast, ready-mix concrete is pre-mixed in batches at a plant and delivered to the site.

Volumetric Concrete vs. Traditional Drum Mixers

Volumetric concrete mixers have a larger capacity than traditional drum mixers—often double the size. Unlike drum mixers, which mix offsite and cannot be adjusted, volumetric mixers allow for on-site mixing, ensuring only the amount of concrete needed is produced. This reduces waste and ensures flexibility for changing job requirements.

Benefits of Using Volumetric Concrete

Volumetric concrete offers several advantages over traditional ready-mix solutions, including:

1. On-Site Mix Control: Volumetric mixers (VMs) allow precise on-site control over mix consistency, including adjustments to slump and air content. This ensures flexibility and reduces the likelihood of rejected batches, unlike ready-mix trucks that have fixed formulations.

2. Versatile Mix Design: VMs can deliver multiple mix designs in one load, adjusting strength, slump, and air content as needed. Ready-mix trucks are limited to a single mix per batch, making VMs ideal for complex projects with varied requirements.

3. Freshness: With volumetric concrete, hydration begins on-site, ensuring a fresh batch whenever needed. Ready-mix concrete can experience delays during transport, causing batches to "time out" and be rejected.

What Projects Are Ideal for Volumetric Concrete?

Volumetric concrete is suitable for a wide range of projects, particularly larger ones that require varying mix designs. It’s perfect for situations where changes to the mix or delays are likely. Volumetric mixers can scale up for large projects and provide flexibility for smaller, domestic jobs like foundations, driveways, or shed bases.

It’s also popular in commercial and industrial applications such as floor slabs and basement foundations. With reduced waste and enhanced flexibility, volumetric concrete is an excellent choice for projects of all sizes.

Experience the benefits of volumetric concrete on your next project. Contact kreitmaker or download our app today to place your order with ease.