Steps To Mix Concrete By Hand

Manual concrete mixing can seem like a complex process. But if done right, it can cement a stable foundation of a building. Manual concrete mixing involves consistent blending of different ingredients that determines the quality, strength and durability of the structure. These ingredients include- a) water, b) coarse aggregate c) fine aggregate (sand), d) additives and e) best-quality cement for concrete use. Since each ingredient contains different physical and chemical properties, it's important to test these ingredients before mixing. A good concrete mix is usually characterized by the following factors:

a) It should have uniformity in colours

b) It should achieve proper consistency

c) It should seamlessly blend ingredients

d) It should smoothly cover up all the surfaces

To know how to create a solid concrete mix, the blog lays down the correct procedure of manual concrete mixing.

4 steps for making the perfect concrete mix

You have to take extra care, effort and precaution while mixing concrete with your hands. There are four steps of concrete mixing. Let’s go through them, step by step.

Build the perfect base platform

The base platform should be watertight and clean. Make a platform from either of these three materials- a) bricks b) iron sheets and c) lean concrete. Ensure that the size of this platform is equivalent to the volume of the concrete mix. Generally, platforms on the construction sites are built with 3metre square of iron sheets with kerbs or strips.

Amalgamate cement and sand

On the base platform, evenly spread out the sand. Then, take the cement and also spread it evenly over the sand. Use a shovel to mix the cement and sand till the mixture effortlessly blends and shows uniformity in colours. Speaking of cement, you cannot just pick up any cement for mixing. You have to choose the best cement that is specifically suited for concrete use. Essentially, PSC or (Portland Slag Cement) or PPC (Portland Pozzolana Cement) are preferred in mass concreting as they both have low heat of hydration. You can select either of the two depending upon your budget and requirements.

If you are looking for the best PPC or PSC cement , then check out MP Birla. Known as one of the best cement brands in India, it offers MP Birla Perfect Plus Cement which is rated as the “perfect cement for concrete” by builders and engineers. This economically-viable, engineered PPC (Portland Pozzolana Cement ) cement demonstrates the highest quality and strength that finds its use in creating foundations, roofs and pillars of the buildings. Visit the website to know more about the product.

Merge CA (Coarse Aggregator) with cement-sand mixture

After preparing the cement-sand mixture, spread it out uniformly on the base platform once again. Over this mixture, spread out the coarse aggregate (CA) in measured quantities. Coarse aggregate refers to medium-sized particulate matters like sand, grains, slag, crushed stones, gravels, etc. as it offers comprehensive strength to the mixture. Blend the CA in the cement-sand mixture at least three to four times by shovelling from center to side and keep repeating the process until the ingredients are mixed in equal proportion.

Add water

Make a depression in the middle of the new mixture and slowly and gently pour three-quarters of the water into the pile. Use a gardener’s water can to add the water in measured amounts. Shift the mixture in the center of the platform with the shovel and again pour water into it till the colour and consistency achieve conformity. This proves that all the ingredients are perfectly balanced in the concrete mix.

Tips to remember

There are certain precautions to keep in mind for concocting the ideal concrete mix

1) The duration of mixing should not surpass 3 minutes

2) The base platform should be thoroughly cleaned so that it can be used for making another concrete mix

3) Check for the consistency. Take a small chunk of the concrete mix in your hand and hold it under tight pressure. If the mix does not slip from your hand and still retains its shape, it has been perfectly mixed

Building a home or building is an ambitious and elaborate journey. With this detailed explanation of concrete mix, we hope that you can now master the art and science of perfect manual concreting and give a solid footing to the structure.

Courtesy: https://www.mpbirlacement.com/steps-to-mix-concrete-by-hand/