A concrete pump truck works by using a hydraulic system with twin cylinders to draw concrete into one cylinder while simultaneously pushing concrete out into discharge pipes.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Hopper Loading: A concrete truck unloads freshly mixed concrete into the pump truck's hopper. The hopper is a large receiving container that holds the concrete ready for pumping.
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Twin Cylinder Hydraulic Pump System: The heart of the concrete pump truck is its twin cylinder hydraulic pump system. This system comprises two cylinders, each with a piston. These pistons work in alternating cycles to create a continuous flow of concrete.
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Intake Stroke: One piston draws back, creating a vacuum that sucks liquid concrete from the hopper into the cylinder.
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Discharge Stroke: At the same time, the other piston moves forward, pushing concrete out of its cylinder and into the discharge pipes or hoses.
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Alternating Action: The two pistons alternate between intake and discharge strokes. As one piston is drawing concrete in, the other is pushing it out. This continuous alternation creates a smooth, consistent flow of concrete through the pump and into the delivery system.
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Delivery System (Boom or Hoses): The concrete is then pumped through either a boom (articulating arm) or a series of hoses to the desired location on the construction site. Boom pumps are used for reaching high or distant locations, while hose pumps are suitable for ground-level or close-range applications.
In summary, a concrete pump truck utilizes a twin-cylinder hydraulic system to create a continuous pumping action, transferring concrete from the hopper, through the cylinders, and out to the desired location via a boom or hoses.
