Concrete Pouring in the Winter and Cold Weather

You can pour concrete in the winter if you follow steps and precautions to prevent the material from freezing. A chemical reaction solidifies liquid concrete, but the reaction slows in cold temperatures. Fresh concrete is vulnerable to pressure and can expand and crack in the cold, so it’s essential to protect it until it hardens.

According to the American Concrete Institute, cold weather consists of average daily air temperatures that drop lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit and remain below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 12 hours during any 24-hour period.

How Cold Can You Pour Concrete?

You can pour concrete in any temperature if the ground remains at or above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Before pouring concrete, it’s crucial to consider how low the temperature may drop during the protection period, which is the time when you need to shield the poured concrete from exposure to cold temperatures while it cures.

Preventing exposure to cold temperatures allows the concrete to become strong and durable. The lower the temperature drops, the more protection you need to apply.

How to Pour Concrete in Winter

Successfully completing winter construction jobs may require you to pour concrete in various temperatures.  Consider the following tips for pouring concrete in cold weather.

Thaw the Ground

Avoid pouring concrete onto frozen ground, ice or snow. The ground can be at freezing temperatures even when the air is above freezing, so you should always check the ground temperature before pouring concrete. If the ground is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, sufficiently thaw it with one or more of the following methods.

• Heated blankets: Heated blankets operate on electricity to direct thermal energy into the ground and insulate the surface, increasing the temperature until it can support proper concrete curing.
• Ground heaters: A hydronic ground heater uses a hose, pump, boiler, blower fan and a propylene glycol mixture to warm the ground. You can place the hose on the ground’s surface in evenly spaced loops. The heated propylene glycol flows through the hose to warm the ground while the fan disperses hot air to aid the process.
• Black plastic: You can drape black plastic over the ground to insulate it.

Pick the Right Material and Store It Properly

Specialized cold-weather concrete cures faster than other types. When choosing cold-weather concrete, select a material that includes the proper amount of air-entrained voids that will minimize the impact of frequent freezing and thawing. The concrete should also feature minimal slump and a low water-to-cement ratio, which will prevent bleeding and significantly reduce setting time. Once you choose the correct material, store it in a warm, dry place.

Pour at the Right Time

Pour and place the concrete as soon as possible after its arrival at the job site. Remember — fresh concrete that freezes within the first 24 hours can lose up to half its strength. Using a concrete pump allows you to pour concrete efficiently so you can insulate it faster.

Hydrate the Concrete Properly

Hydration is a chemical reaction that occurs when water’s oxygen and hydrogen molecules bond with the cement’s compounds to hydrate it. During this time, the concrete is in a plastic state to facilitate transporting and placing. Low temperatures can hinder hydration, so it’s essential to keep cement warm.

Even if you keep the dry product in a warm area, you may also need to elevate the temperature during the hydration period. You can accomplish this by adding extra cement or water to the mixture, heating the concrete mix’s components or using a chemical accelerator. It’s also helpful to insulate the concrete immediately after pouring it to trap heat during hydration.

Protect the Poured Concrete

Protect concrete while it cures by maintaining the correct temperature for at least five days. That waiting period allows it to fully cure before you expose it to freezing temperatures. The temperature should remain at or above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for at least five days after removing a heated enclosure or insulated blankets. If you choose to protect concrete with heated enclosures, ensure they are windproof and weatherproof.

Determine the appropriate protection requirements for the concrete and take steps to prevent freezing immediately after pouring. It’s also vital to consider a concrete’s strength requirements. Understanding its strength requirements enables you to provide adequate protection for the poured concrete at specific temperatures.

Track Temperature Changes

Since maintaining the right temperature is a large part of protecting concrete while it cures, tracking the temperature is crucial during this process. Use a chart to track changes in the air temperature and the concrete’s internal temperature.

Contact DY Concrete Pumps for Advice Regarding Concrete Pumping in Cold Weather

Thawing the ground properly, pouring concrete quickly and insulating it protects it from freezing in cold temperatures. Using a concrete pump is an excellent way to pour concrete efficiently, giving you adequate time to insulate it and maintain a protective temperature.

DY Concrete Pumps, Inc. provides concrete pumping equipment to the construction industry, and we have been a trusted supplier for years. With offices in Calgary, AB, Canada, we understand what it takes to deliver superior results when pumping and pouring concrete in freezing weather. Contact us to learn more about our concrete pumping equipment.

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While pouring concrete in hot weather is possible, you should first take the proper steps to protect your final product. Your projects or concrete repairs won’t always fall during optimal conditions, so learning to work around weather conditions such as intense heat can help you achieve the best outcome and keep your business successful is essential.

Best Temperature for Pouring Concrete

Various elements, such as humidity, wind and temperature, can affect the ability to pour concrete effectively. Ideally, you’ll want to pour concrete between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you won’t always have the best temperature for pouring concrete with each job.

There can be challenges when pouring concrete in cold or warm temperatures. For example, when it’s too cold, it can slow chemical reactions that make concrete strong, resulting in a weaker product. Warm temperatures above 77 degrees Fahrenheit can evaporate the water you use to cure or hydrate the cement. As a result, the concrete’s temperature can increase and weaken, making it vulnerable to cracking or shrinking.

There are other obstacles to pouring concrete in hot weather, such as:

• Formation of cold joints, which are areas of weakness in the concrete that can result from the heat decreasing the setting time
• Formation of shrinkage-related cracks that may continue to widen until you can eliminate the stresses causing the shrinkage
• Compression testing revealing a decrease in compression strength, which is often directly related to extreme heat
• Reduced strength and durability that can cause the need for repairs or replacement in the future
• More difficult finishing from placing and pouring concrete during sweltering conditions
• Increased potential for dry shrinkage after hardening, which can negatively impact the quality of the finish

Despite these obstacles, you can effectively pour concrete in the heat using the proper precautions, even working in temperatures above 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Pouring Concrete in Hot Temperatures

While summer brings warm, long days ideal for working on projects, it’s not the most friendly environment for concrete. Hot weather isn’t the perfect concrete pouring temperature, but there are ways to avoid the adverse effects of pouring during these highs. On hot days, fresh concrete can set in just 30 minutes, so you’ll need to work fast to pour and finish your project before it hardens.

If you know the temperature will be hot when you’re pouring concrete, it’s best to plan ahead. You can offset the effects of hot weather, wind and humidity by following these tips:

1. Choose the best time of day: If possible, avoid pouring concrete during the warmest times of the day — attempt to schedule the pouring during the morning hours. Pouring concrete in the morning helps you avoid the warmest temperatures, which can affect the quality of your finished project. Starting early can help you complete your project quickly without risking your concrete hardening before you’re finished.
2. Shade your equipment: Keep all equipment, such as pumps, conveyors and chutes, in a shaded area until you need them, or consider applying protective covers if there is no access to shade. The shade will help reduce the overall temperature of your equipment, which can prevent some of the challenges associated with pouring concrete in the heat.
3. Have enough workers on hand: Make sure you have a sufficient workforce to complete the task. A single person is usually insufficient to manage the concrete during pouring, placing and finishing.
4. Space control joints properly: Remember that pouring concrete when it’s hot outside requires placing space control joints at smaller intervals than when working in colder conditions.
5. Shade the poured concrete: Use sunshades when possible to keep the concrete cooler during and after pouring to prevent it from getting too warm in the sun. Shading your concrete is just as important, if not more, than shading your equipment to ensure it doesn’t dry too quickly before you can finish your project.
6. Prevent evaporation: Water will evaporate more quickly as the temperature rises, so equip your laborers with an evaporative retarder to prevent the mix from drying out upon application. You can also combat evaporation by reducing the mixing time after adding water.
7. Utilize walls and roofs: Plan on building walls and ceilings before pouring indoor concrete slabs. Keep the side forms for all walls and slabs damp by applying cool water.
8. Consider adding ice: Adding ice to the concrete water mixture can keep it cool and also help to safeguard against excess evaporation.
9. Wait for the water to dry: Do not commence the finishing process until there is no more water on the substrate’s surface.
10. Use the proper curing process: Ensure you implement the most appropriate curing process for the project, as doing so will ensure the concrete sets evenly and uniformly.

Pouring concrete in the heat is possible when using the proper methods and working quickly. Set times will vary depending on the time of year, so you’ll need to prepare depending on the weather you’re expecting. With the proper preparation, you can achieve your ideal results even when the temperatures aren’t optimal.

Contact DY Concrete Pumps for More Hot-Weather Concrete Pouring and Pumping Tips

Pouring concrete in the heat can be complicated, but it’s easier with the right tools. DY Concrete Pumps manufactures concrete pumps for your needs, whether you’re completing a brand-new project or making repairs. Our pumps are created with our clients in mind, meaning they’re easy to use so you can save time, boost productivity and reduce the need for preventative maintenance.

With years of end-user experience in providing the most advanced and reliable concrete pumping machines, we can help you maximize pouring and pumping concrete in hot weather. Contact us to learn more.

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As with any piece of heavy machinery or construction equipment, though, there are always risks and safety precautions to keep in mind when operating your concrete pump to ensure the safety of yourself and your crew.

The first step to safely using a concrete pump is to be aware of the risks involved and know how to mitigate them to prevent injury to your team or damage to your machine.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Work Site Placement Issues

The first step on your concrete pump safety checklist should be to plan ahead and ensure the pump can be safely placed where it needs to be to get the job done. You want your machine to be somewhere convenient for pumping and accessible for the mixing trucks, but you also want to make sure your pump is somewhere safe.

If you don’t plan ahead, concrete pumps with booms are at risk of coming into contact with power lines on your work site, which could result in dangerous electric shock.

American Concrete Pumping Association (ACPA) electrical safety guidelines state that booms must maintain 20 feet of clearance from any power line carrying up to 350,000 volts. For power lines carrying more than 350,000 volts, booms need 50 feet of clearance.

You’ll also want to ensure you have a solid, flat surface for your concrete pump to sit on. Concrete pumps with booms are at an elevated risk of tipping if they are not on stable ground.

Inspect Your Equipment to Prevent Malfunctions

Concrete pumps that have not been properly maintained or inspected could malfunction during use and injure crew members. Additionally, safety straps that are weak and worn may also break or malfunction.

The easiest way to prevent these pumping hazards is to perform inspections and preventive maintenance to your concrete pump and safety gear. If you are renting a machine, make sure the rental service has provided the proper inspection information.

Understand the Dangers of Wet Concrete

Wet concrete is abrasive and contains harmful chemicals that can cause caustic burns, abrasions, dermatitis and other irritations when they contact the eyes or skin.

You and your crew should take every precaution to ensure the wet concrete does not touch you directly. Wear long sleeves, long pants and all proper protective equipment when working with wet concrete and avoid any direct contact with the wet materials.

Know Standard Operating Procedures

When you know how to operate your concrete pump properly, you can run it safely and avoid costly mistakes on the job.

Things like proper handling of the hose, using the correct hose fixtures and wearing proper ear protection can prevent injuries to your crewmembers.

Stay up to Date With Safety Training

Before you begin a project with a concrete pump, make sure you are caught up on the most recent safety regulations for operating the machine. Ensure your team has any necessary training and certifications for operating concrete pumps and a full understanding of concrete pump hazards and safety.

Proper training and planning are the best ways to prevent accidental injuries on your work site.

Basic Do’s and Don’ts of Concrete Pump Safety

You and your crew should understand the do’s and don’ts of working with a concrete pump to prevent damages, injuries and potential death. In addition to checking in with the ACPA safety regulations and guidelines, you can refer to the following concrete pump safety checklist:

DO:

• Request a certified operator for a rented concrete pump.
• Stay up to date on safety regulations.
• Know the standard hand signals for effective communication.
• Ensure your machine is placed in a safe location away from power lines and loose dirt.
• Handle all equipment according to safe operating procedures.
• Wear safety equipment such as goggles, ear protection and long sleeves.

DON’T:

• Handle the equipment without proper training.
• Use the boom as a crane.
• Operate a concrete pump in the dark.
• Stand in front of the hose end.
• Use a concrete pump that has not been properly inspected or maintained.
• Climb the machine or boom to clear clogged lines.

Reach out to DY Concrete Pumps for Pump Safety Tips

Before you begin working with a concrete pump, be sure that you and your crew understand the hazards and safety guidelines associated with the machine. When operated properly, concrete pumps can be an excellent addition to your work site.

For any inquiries or further questions about concrete pump safety, please contact us online or call 1-844-397-8677.

The post How to Operate a Concrete Pump Safely appeared first on DY Concrete Pumps.

Fortunately, while wear can’t be avoided, it can be mitigated through scheduled maintenance. Performing regular maintenance on your machine is the best way to catch any worn parts before they become a problem. Neglecting routine maintenance is among the highest-ranking causes of part wear on concrete pumps.

Concrete Pump Problems Caused by Wear

Knowing the most common causes of concrete pump wear and which parts are most likely to fail can help you keep your pump problem-free.

If ignored, worn-out parts can lead to more extensive damage, costing you more money in repairs and unproductive downtime.

Pump Blockage

Pumping out concrete is the entire purpose of your concrete pump, so when your pump becomes blocked, it’s basically useless. Pump blockage is one of the most common issues that concrete pump owners and operators encounter.

You’ll know your concrete pump is blocked if no concrete comes out at the end of the pipeline and the pressure gauge starts to indicate elevated pressure in your machine.

When no other mechanical issues are present, blockages usually result from:

• Poorly mixed or low-quality concrete.
• Operator error.
• Pipeline wear.
• Maintenance neglect.

Preventing blockages is simple — make sure your concrete pump is being used correctly by an experienced operator and that you are using only high-quality pumpable concrete materials. Perform routine maintenance like cleaning your pipelines to clear out any hardened residues that may cause future blockages.

Pump Pistons

Your pump pistons are vital to your concrete pump’s functionality because they push your concrete through the pipeline. Given the nature of this task, your pump pistons will wear with use.

With normal wear, your pistons should only need to be replaced occasionally. If they seem to be wearing too quickly, it could indicate a problem with another part of your pump, such as the lubrication or hydraulic systems.

If everything seems to be functional, consider the quality of the parts you are using. Lower-quality pistons may wear faster with normal use. Though they may save you money now, they will end up costing you more in the long run.

Piston Cups and Other Wear Parts

Also known as mud cups or ram flanges, piston cups are among the small “wear parts” of a concrete pump.

Almost all concrete pumps on the market have small fittings, seals and fixtures referred to as wear parts. These parts take the brunt of the wear that occurs with machine use and require the most frequent replacement.

Performing regular maintenance on your pump is the easiest way to keep an eye on your wear parts and change them out when they begin to show damage. Failing to do so can lead to more extensive damage to your machine.

Protecting Your Concrete Pump

The most effective way to protect your concrete pump from damage caused by worn parts is to perform regularly scheduled maintenance. Though it may take time and cost a little money, the investment in maintaining your machine will go a long way toward protecting you from unexpected malfunctions and costly repairs.

Pay close attention to how many hours you have put on your concrete pump, and try to learn how it runs. When you are tuned in to the normal functions of your machine, you will be able to more easily identify abnormalities and quickly diagnose issues caused by worn parts.

For more information about concrete pumps, wear parts and replacement components, contact DY Concrete Pumps online or call 1-844-397-8677.

The post What Causes Wear on a Concrete Pump? appeared first on DY Concrete Pumps.

While obstructions in the line can occur for a variety of reasons, some of the most common causes of concrete pump blockages include:

• Problems with the mix: Perhaps the most prominent blockage issue when pumping concrete is when the mixture does not retain a sufficient amount of water. If the sand used as part of the mix is not graded sufficiently, small channels can form that allow the penetration of water and concrete. Mix problems can also happen if there’s a delay in pumping. For example, if the mix sets too long in hot weather, it can lead to stiffening that makes the mixture difficult, if not impossible, to pump.
• Operator mistakes: If the pump operator lacks experience or has not received sufficient training, it can lead to errors that inhibit the performance of the equipment and cause blockages. A skilled pump operator understands how to set up the job to eliminate the need to add more hose during pumping. Careless hose handling can create kinks that prevent the liquid mixture from flowing properly, which can cause a jam at the end of the line. A tear or rupture may also form at the point of the kink.
• Pipeline issues: Pipeline problems can occur if the pump’s capacity and horsepower do not match the requirements of the task at hand. For instance, an underpowered motor may not produce sufficient pump velocity to propel the mixture through the pipeline system, leading to a blockage. Also, the coupling of a large-diameter hose with a narrower hose can create an obstruction, as the concrete will flow more slowly through the smaller unit.
• Using poor-quality materials: Not every form of concrete is suitable for pumping. The use of unqualified pumping concrete can result in a concrete slump that’s either too large or too small, which can result in blockage, as can the inclusion of substandard mortar in the mixture. The improper selection of additives such as retarders, pumping agents and filling agents may also increase the likelihood of blockage.
• Inadequate pipeline maintenance: Failure to maintain the pipeline is yet another common cause of concrete pump blockages. Concrete residue inside the piping will eventually set and harden, forming obstructions that inhibit mix flow. Other issues related to insufficient cleaning include mix segregation and bleeding. It’s also essential to replace damaged or worn gaskets, couplings and weld collars as soon as possible to prevent grout loss. Performing routine maintenance is much less time consuming and costly than fixing concrete blockages.

Contact DY Concrete Pumps to Learn More About the Common Causes of Concrete Pump Blockages

As one of the leading global providers of concrete pumps and placing solutions, we can help you overcome your most challenging pump obstruction issues and provide guidance in locating concrete blockages in your pipeline system. Contact us to learn more today.

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