The concrete mixing process is a major part in any construction project that uses concrete. The use of self-loading concrete mixers (SLCM) is gaining prominence in the current market scenario. With mechanisation happening at a faster pace in small and medium construction projects, SLCM is a convenient machine that ensures, quality, ease of operation and economy. This unique machine is designed to batch, mix and transport the concrete to the required project site. Loading and mixing are combined into a single vehicle, making them a convenient multitasking unit for contractors who work with concrete. These trucks offer a number of advantages over other types of concrete mixing tools.

SLCMs are used in projects located in far of and rural areas where stationery concrete mixing plants are not suited. Due to their space saving advantage, these are also suitable for space constraint urban areas. They are used in projects including bridges, roads, irrigation canals, dam walls, rural construction projects and in residential projects. SLCM also saves labour cost as it reduces the requirement for workers. There is only the need of a driver who can operate all the functions in the SLCM.

Demand drivers
SLCMs are being used in projects where concrete is required in small quantities. Rural development projects see a lot of demand for SLCMs. The major demand drivers are PMGSY concrete road projects, industry development, solar projects and other similar projects where small quantity of concrete is required. Due to the Covid pandemic impact, the demand went down as almost all projects were on hold and customers were not willing to invest in the unpredictable condition. However, the situation is improving slowly.

Rural vs urban
In rural infrastructure projects, SLCM is best suited because customer can load, mix and discharge material from single machine and it can be used in small space also. SLCM demand is more in rural infrastructure projects compared to urban infra projects.

Advantage mobility
SLCM is a mobile concrete mixer. Due to mobility it is easy to use in different sites. It does not require any other equipment to work SLCM, as in stationary plant customers require loader, DG sets and transit mixers. SLCM’s operational cost is comparatively lower than stationary plant and truck mixer.

Rentals
Rental market for SLCMs has become competitive due to the presence of more number of players. The rent of SLCM is decreasing continuously due to competition and customers prefer to buy their own machines.

Market outlook
SLCM demand is expected to increase in future as it is used in various types of applications. Post-pandemic, the use of SLCM can increase because it is user-friendly, easy to transport, and has lower owning and operating cost.

Advantages of Apollo Carmix SLCMs

Source: Apollo Inffratech