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POINT OF VIEW

1. Location and Accessibility: Remote sites may require Volumetric concrete mixers
smaller vehicles or specialized trucks to navigate limited
access. Though relatively new, volumetric mixers are rapidly gaining
popularity due to their versatility and efficiency [Figure 2(b)].
2. Project Size: Large projects often demand high-capacity They store cement, water, and the aggregates separately and
mixers to meet the volume requirements efficiently. mix them on-site in precise quantities as needed. This approach
Concrete drum mixers are typically used for transporting offers several advantages:
large volumes.
1. Fresh Concrete: Concrete is mixed exactly when needed,
3. Environmental Impact: Weather conditions can affect the ensuring optimal quality by preventing premature curing.
concrete mix. In extreme temperatures, additives may be
2. Waste Reduction: Mixing on-site to exact specifications
necessary to preserve quality. reduces excess production and minimizes waste.
4. Equipment Availability: The available truck types will 3. Flexibility: Mix designs can be adjusted on-site without
determine whether to use ready-mix or volumetric mixers. requiring a new batch from a plant.
Truck capacity plays a crucial role in the decision-making
process. Technological advancements in volumetric
mixers
For standard deliveries, truck mixers are the most common
option. However, if on-site adjustments are needed, volumetric Volumetric mixers have transformed the concrete supply chain
mixers offer an excellent alternative. Effective transportation by offering a more flexible and efficient approach compared to
minimizes delays, reduces waste, and ensures compliance traditional drum mixers. Several technological advancements
with many standards for concrete quality. Proper planning and have played a pivotal role in their effectiveness:
selecting the right equipment are essential to avoid mishandling 1. Advanced Sensor Technology: They are provided with
and ensure efficient delivery. load cells and moisture sensors. Integrated into storage
bins and the mixing chamber, load cells provide real-time
Concrete Truck Mixers vs. Volumetric Concrete Mixers [10,11] data on material weights, ensuring accurate proportions.
Moisture sensors monitor the moisture content of
Concrete truck mixers
aggregates and automatically adjust water quantities to
Also known as in-transit mixers or special concrete transport achieve the desired slump and performance.
trucks, these vehicles are designed to transport and mix 2. Real-Time Data Communication: Advanced
concrete until it reaches the construction site [Figure 2(a)]. communication protocols enable seamless, real-time
They can be charged with dry materials and water–with mixing interaction between the mixer’s components and
occurring during transit–or loaded with pre-mixed concrete from the operator’s control system, often through wireless
a central plant. Continuous agitation (through drum rotation) technology. This coordination improves precision and
keeps the material in a liquid state until delivery. reliability.

Volumetric concrete mixers

Concrete truck mixers
(a) (b)
Figure 2: Transportation of concrete (a) Concrete truck mixers (b) Volumetric concrete mixers

THE INDIAN CONCRETE JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2026 9