What is the vehicle that pumps concrete called?
2 Answers
The vehicle that pumps concrete is called a concrete pump, which includes truck-mounted pumps (pump trucks) and trailer-mounted ground pumps (further divided into electric pumps and diesel pumps). It can transport fluid concrete through pipelines to the concrete pouring surface. Here are some introductions about concrete pumping vehicles: Types: Concrete Pump Truck: A machine that uses pressure to continuously transport concrete through pipelines. It consists of a pump body and delivery pipes. According to the structural form, it can be divided into piston type, extrusion type, and hydraulic diaphragm type. The pump body is mounted on a truck chassis, and when equipped with an extendable or folding placing boom, it forms a pump truck. The concrete pump truck is modified from a heavy-duty truck chassis, with movement and power transmission devices, pumping and mixing devices, placing devices, and other auxiliary devices installed on the chassis. Components: It consists of five parts: boom, pumping, hydraulic, support, and electrical control.
I've been working in the construction industry for nearly twenty years and frequently deal with those concrete-pumping vehicles. On our construction site, we commonly refer to them as 'cement tank trucks' or 'concrete mixer trucks.' The distinctive feature of these trucks is the large rotating drum at the back, which keeps turning while moving to prevent the concrete from solidifying prematurely, which could compromise construction quality. Drivers must pay special attention to maintaining the drum's transmission system; otherwise, if it stops, the hardened concrete inside is not only difficult to clean but also delays the project timeline. I've encountered several breakdowns where we all pitched in to clean the drum, ending up covered in dust. These trucks aren't just for transportation—they also serve a mixing function, making them indispensable for workers. Whenever I see one on the road, I always remind my kids to keep their distance to avoid being hit by any spilled material. Overall, these trucks are regulars on construction sites, with straightforward and practical names, though regional variations in terminology may exist.