‘RMC’ abbreviates as Ready-mix concrete, emerged as a modern construction material all across the globe. The concrete is premixed in a factory under controlled conditions and then delivered to the construction sites: which results in high quality of work along with convenience. Therefore; first of all, we need to know what exactly is ready-mix concrete and why it is demanded so much in building construction?
What is Ready Mix Concrete?
Ready Mix Concerts refers to concrete that has been mixed in a factory or batching plant and then transferred into transit mixer trucks.
Why Use It?
Uniformity: All batches are controlled in order to maintain consistent quality.
Save time: No need to mix on-site, resulting in even faster build times.
Sustainable: Minimise wastage of material and dust pollution.
5 Reasons to Use Ready Mix Concrete in Construction
Ready mix concrete can be used in a variety of projects, like following:
Residential: Ideal for foundations, driveways, flooring and walls.
Commercial Buildings: High-rise, office buildings and parking structures.
Infrastructure: Subways system, sub bridges, casements and tubes etc.
What you Need to Care about, While Using Ready Mix Concrete?
The distance should not be much for the concrete to be delivered from where mixture is being prepared at plant, it must be less because when these mixed it will harden.
Correct Curing: Correct curing of the concrete is essential, as it will help in attaining desired strength and durability.
The Proper Understanding of All Concrete Mix Ratio
When making concrete, the proportions of the various components which are uncommon or popular among laymen, a typical “concerto”, uniformly interesting and seldom fail to evoke one’s curiosity. It is about achieving the right strength and durability for the structural components of your project.
Common Concrete Mix Ratios
Different ratios are combined, depending of the structure of construction, following are the most common ones:
1:2:3 Ratio (Cement: Sand: Gravel)
Best For: This ratio is perfectly used for footings, slabs and walkways.
Why Use It: Presents superior strength and resistance to deterioration.
1:3:3 Ratio (Cement: Sand: Gravel)
Best For: Absolutely for patios and driveways.
Why Use It: Provides an excellent combination of strength and workability.
1:1.5:3 Ratio (Cement: Sand: Gravel)
Best For: Most appropriate to reinforced concrete structures.
Why Use It: Helps in achieving high strength particularly for load bearing affiliates.
Also Read: Top Construction Companies in Pakistan
Benefits of Using Ready Mix Concrete
Consistent Quality: It is factory produced, so there are no chances of bad supply quality.
Saves Time: The speed of construction is improved, due to the absence of any mixing that is usually done on site.
Cost-Effective: The use of ready-mix concrete also helps in saving on labour and material costs, especially on bulk construction works.
Flexible: This is because there is no restriction in the mix ratios of concrete and thus one can achieve the desired outcome.
How to Choose the Right Type of Ready-Mix Concrete for Your Project
Understand Project Requirements: Identify what needs to be incorporated into the design for instance: how much load will be supported and environmental exposure.
Select the Correct Mix Ratio: Use the ratio as per the applicability intended.
Consider Delivery Time: Plan the timing of the concrete delivery in such a way that the mix does not become stiff before it is shaped.
Proper Curing: Correct curing techniques are also use in order to ensure concrete maintaining its strength.
The Importance of Curing in Concrete Construction
The process of curing in relation to concrete precedes the process of construction and affects the end result. Curing technically means providing moisture, temperature and time to enable hydration.
Curing methods that are often applied in construction works
Water Curing
What it is? Water curing is a method of curing that is whereby the concrete surface is kept wet by spraying water over layer or use wet coverings.
How it Works? It promotes maximum imbibition which promotes strength.
Membrane Curing
What it is? Membrane curing is a mode of curing concrete that involves covering the cured concrete with a liquid film to aid the retention of water inside the concrete.
How it Works? It reduces rapid loss of water which would cause uneven curing.
Steam Curing
What it is? Steam curing involves steam being passed over the mud while it is retained in a plastic enclosure or hothouse.
How it works? Reduces the time taken in the process of curing.
Guidelines to Follow When Choosing the Best Ready-Mix Concrete
Analyse your Requirements: Pinpoint the amount of strength, durability and exposure that is required.
Speak to Suppliers: Outline your needs in order to obtain the right blend for your specific project.
Analyse Costs: Do not forget to factor in the price as well as the transportation expenses when making the decision.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that ready mix concrete is one of the best and most convenient solutions to modern day construction challenges. Knowing the appropriate mix ratio and methods of curing: you can make your project concrete and strong regardless of its size, from a small patio to an airport runway. Thus, the safety, life span and sustainability aspects of construction work can be improved greatly if the proper mixing and curing procedures and proper ready-mix concrete are applied. Ready mix concrete is not just a material for construction but also a tool for building success.
