The major problems that one encounters when pumping concrete are blockage of the pipeline, and segregation and bleeding of concrete mix. The blockage is the failure of concrete to emerge at the end of the pipeline. It is characterized by an increase in pressure that can be observed on the pressure gauge.
Blockage can be caused by the improper selection of pumping equipment like using an underpowered motor, coupling a small diameter pipe with a large diameter pipe, and attaching wide or sharp bends in the pipeline. Unskilled labor, improper maintenance of pumping equipment, and inappropriate concrete handling are also some critical factors resulting in blockage.
Moreover, bleeding and segregation in concrete are caused by incorrect mix design and poor-quality materials. This problem can be solved by increasing cement content or adding admixtures to increase the mixture’s cohesion. Additionally, the use of well-graded aggregate in the mix would immensely help in concrete pumpability.
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