With the improvement of infrastructure and living conditions in modern agriculture, the demand for concrete is steadily increasing. However, individual operators often face financial limitations. Large concrete mixer trucks are expensive, costly to maintain and repair, and complex to operate, making them less suitable for rural needs. In contrast, mini concrete truck are more appropriate for such environments.
1. Main Features of Mini Concrete Truck
The mixing capacity of a mini concrete truck is approximately 2.2 m³, with a geometric volume of about 4 m³. It can be equipped with a standard second-class general chassis. The vehicle width is around 2.2 meters, height about 3.4 meters, and the total weight is roughly 10,000 kg.
Depending on the chassis configuration, the power can be taken from a power take-off (PTO) or flywheel. A small displacement gear oil pump is used to drive the hydraulic system. The water supply system includes an external water pipe, an independent water tank, and a pneumatic water supply system. This ensures appropriate concrete slump and water for cleaning during transport. The pneumatic water supply system is stable and economical, featuring a pressure regulator, pressure gauge, and pressure switch that automatically activates at 0.4 MPa, ensuring sufficient chassis air pressure and driving safety.
Overall, the vehicle is compact and lightweight. Its load capacity is suitable for rural construction, where smaller amounts of mixed concrete are required more frequently. It is reliable, safe, flexible, easy to operate, and economical. Unlike large mixer trucks, it can access narrow roads and alleys. The low purchase and maintenance costs make it ideal for small-town construction, road and bridge building, and particularly advantageous in subway tunnels and mine galleries.
2. Working Characteristics of Mini Concrete Truck
The mixing drum is powered by a PTO. The PTO drives the hydraulic pump, motor, and related components, which then drive the drum through a reducer.
The vehicle uses a pneumatic water supply system instead of a water pump. Air is taken from the chassis and passed through a sequence valve and pressure regulator (0.4–0.45 MPa) to the water tank. A manual valve regulates the system. An automatic pressure switch activates the system at 0.4 MPa, ensuring chassis air pressure and vehicle braking safety. The system includes a water tank, air supply system, and piping.
The drum is olive-shaped and made of steel plate, with internal mixing blades. It includes access holes, rollers, and roller tracks. It is supported by a reducer and two rollers. The drum mixes and discharges material:
Clockwise rotation: feeding and mixing
Counterclockwise rotation: discharging
Controls are located on the left side of the vehicle, at both the front and rear. A throttle handle is located at the rear. The drum’s speed and direction are controlled via a flexible shaft, keeping the rotation speed between 0–16 r/min.
This includes the feeding hopper, fixed and movable discharge hoppers, elevation mechanism, and extended discharge chute.
Drum rotates clockwise: pre-mixed concrete is fed into the drum via the hopper
Drum rotates counterclockwise: concrete is discharged through the hopper and extended chute to the desired location
The discharge chute can swing 180° horizontally for directional adjustment.
3. Key Points for Maintenance and Servicing
The hydraulic system is the core of the mixer truck. Before each use, check the oil levels in the hydraulic oil radiator and reducer to ensure it is within the indicated range. Maintain oil cleanliness to avoid contamination by dust or moisture, which could damage the system or prevent normal operation.
The water tank should be filled to three-quarters capacity. All water system valves should be closed during driving to avoid braking performance issues or damage to brake pads.
Do not weld or modify the tank arbitrarily
Avoid impacts by heavy objects
Regularly check for valve blockages or malfunctions
In freezing environments, drain the system to avoid pipe damage
Check for system leaks, and use thread sealant when reassembling critical parts
After the first 50 hours of operation, check all bolts on the drum and related components for looseness. Before daily use, check the lubrication of the rollers and tracks. Once a month, open the roller cover, clean any grease buildup, and apply fresh lubricant.
Mini concrete trucks are a practical and cost-effective solution for rural and small-scale construction projects. With their compact size, reliable performance, and user-friendly design, they meet the demands of narrow roads and frequent mixing needs. Proper operation, routine maintenance, and timely servicing are essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of the vehicle. As infrastructure development continues to expand into rural areas, these small mixers will play an increasingly important role in supporting local construction with flexibility and affordability.
