Ready mix concrete is one of the most widely used building materials in modern construction. Unlike traditional site-mixed concrete, ready mix concrete is manufactured in a batching plant under controlled conditions and delivered to the site in ready-to-use form. This ensures better quality, consistency, and faster construction. In this article, we will explore the benefits of ready mix concrete, its applications, and how it actually works in construction projects around the world.
What is Ready Mix Concrete?
Ready mix concrete, often abbreviated as RMC, is a specially designed concrete mix prepared in a central batching plant. It is then transported to the construction site in transit mixers. The advantage of RMC is that it saves time, reduces wastage, and ensures uniform quality. Unlike manual mixing, the proportions of cement, sand, aggregates, water, and admixtures are controlled precisely using advanced equipment.
How Ready Mix Concrete Works
Understanding how ready mix concrete works helps builders make the right choice for their projects. The process begins with raw material selection, followed by batching, mixing, and delivery.
- Batching: Proportions of cement, sand, aggregates, and water are measured accurately.
- Mixing: Ingredients are mixed using computerized systems for consistency.
- Transporting: The fresh concrete is carried in rotating transit mixers to avoid segregation.
- Placement: At the site, RMC is poured directly into formwork for slabs, beams, columns, or foundations.
This method ensures efficiency and reduces errors that often occur in manual mixing.
Benefits of Ready Mix Concrete
Ready mix concrete offers multiple benefits that make it a preferred choice in modern construction.
- Consistent Quality: Since it is mixed in a controlled environment, the strength and durability remain uniform.
- Time Saving: Large volumes of concrete can be prepared quickly and delivered on time.
- Cost Efficiency: Reduces labor costs, material wastage, and on-site storage requirements.
- Durability: Provides higher compressive strength and better resistance to weathering.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces dust and noise pollution at construction sites.
Applications of Ready Mix Concrete
Ready mix concrete is used in a variety of construction projects due to its versatility.
- Residential Construction: Houses, apartments, and small buildings use RMC for slabs, columns, and beams.
- Commercial Projects: Offices, shopping malls, and hospitals rely on RMC for faster completion.
- Infrastructure Projects: Highways, bridges, airports, and tunnels extensively use RMC.
- Industrial Structures: Factories, warehouses, and power plants prefer RMC for strength and durability.
Types of Ready Mix Concrete
Different types of ready mix concrete are available depending on the project requirements.
- Transit Mixed Concrete: Mixed during transportation, ideal for medium to large projects.
- Shrink Mixed Concrete: Partially mixed at the plant, then completed in the transit mixer.
- Central Mixed Concrete: Fully mixed at the batching plant, ensuring maximum consistency.
Ready Mix Concrete vs Site Mix Concrete
A common question in construction is whether to use ready mix or traditional site mix. Let’s compare:
| Feature | Ready Mix Concrete | Site Mix Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | High and consistent | Varies with labor skill |
| Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Wastage | Minimal | High |
| Cost | Slightly higher but efficient | Lower upfront but more wastage |
| Equipment | Requires transit mixers | Simple tools |
From this comparison, it is clear that ready mix concrete provides more long-term benefits compared to site mixing.
Mixing Ratios in Ready Mix Concrete
The strength of concrete depends on its mix ratio. Common RMC grades are:
- M20 (1:1.5:3) – Suitable for residential use.
- M25 (1:1:2) – Common in commercial construction.
- M30 and above – Used for bridges, flyovers, and heavy structures.
Cost of Ready Mix Concrete
The cost of ready mix concrete depends on the grade, transportation distance, and local material prices. On average:
- Low-grade RMC (M20–M25) may cost $60–$80 per cubic meter.
- High-grade RMC (M30 and above) may cost $90–$120 per cubic meter.
Though it may appear more expensive than site mixing, the savings in time, labor, and wastage make it cost-effective.
Tips for Using Ready Mix Concrete on Site
To get the best results from RMC, follow these tips:
- Ensure proper formwork is ready before delivery.
- Place concrete immediately to prevent setting delays.
- Use vibrators to compact concrete and remove air gaps.
- Cure properly for at least 7–14 days depending on the grade.
Challenges in Ready Mix Concrete
Despite its advantages, RMC has some challenges:
- Transport Time: Long distances may reduce workability.
- Initial Cost: Slightly higher than manual mixing.
- Dependence on Supplier: Quality relies on batching plant performance.
Future of Ready Mix Concrete
With the rise of smart cities and sustainable building practices, ready mix concrete is becoming the backbone of modern infrastructure. Advanced RMC with additives such as fly ash, silica fume, and fibers will dominate the future of eco-friendly and high-strength construction.
FAQs About Ready Mix Concrete
What is the shelf life of ready mix concrete?
Ready mix concrete should be used within 90 minutes of mixing to maintain workability and strength.
Is ready mix concrete suitable for small house construction?
Yes, RMC is ideal for houses as it saves time and ensures better quality compared to site mixing.
Can ready mix concrete crack easily?
If placed and cured properly, RMC is less likely to develop cracks compared to manually mixed concrete.
How is ready mix concrete transported?
It is transported in transit mixers with rotating drums to prevent setting before use.
Is ready mix concrete eco-friendly?
Yes, it reduces site pollution, minimizes wastage, and often uses industrial by-products like fly ash, making it more sustainable.
