A concrete truck, often called a cement truck, typically carries 400-800 gallons of water in a dedicated water tank.
Concrete trucks are equipped with a built-in water tank essential for the concrete mixing process. This tank stores water that is transported to the construction site, ready to be mixed with the dry cement and aggregate.
The Purpose of the Water Tank
The water carried on a concrete truck serves several key functions:
- Final Mixing: Water is the final ingredient added to the dry mix (cement, sand, gravel) at the construction site to create ready-mix concrete. Adding water just before pouring ensures the concrete remains workable during transport and doesn't start hardening prematurely.
- Consistency Adjustment: The amount of water added can be adjusted slightly at the site to achieve the desired concrete slump (consistency) needed for a specific application.
- Cleaning: After the concrete is discharged, the water tank is also used for initial rinsing of the mixer drum and chutes.
Water Tank Capacity
Based on industry standards and truck design:
- Every cement truck has a water tank where water is stored and transported to construction sites for mixing with cement.
- The tank sits above or below the mixer drum.
- It typically holds 400-800 gallons of water.
This capacity is generally sufficient for hydrating the mix carried in the drum and performing necessary cleaning operations at the site.
Key Aspects of the Water Tank
Here's a summary of details regarding the water tank on a concrete truck:
- Location: Usually mounted above or below the rotating mixer drum.
- Capacity Range: Approximately 400 to 800 gallons.
- Function: Provides water for mixing and cleaning.
Understanding the water capacity is crucial for planning deliveries and ensuring the truck has enough water for the specific requirements of the job site.
