Concrete pan mixers are essential for concrete production, designed to meet diverse requirements. These machines must not only adhere to strict technical standards but also be adaptable to various site conditions. The design and components of the machine must be tailored to specific needs, with a key focus on flexibility in technology modifications, extensions, and automated systems.
The concrete mixing system consists of multiple independent units and processes. At the core is the mixer, which requires a reliable control system to ensure safe and efficient operation. This includes the mixer motor, control mechanisms, and an indirect drive system for the mixing tube. Modern mixers often feature a consistency measurement device, as well as microwave sensors for monitoring humidity and temperature.
Concrete control equipment includes silos, weighing scales, and screw conveyors controlled by inverters. Radar sensors or measuring scales are used to monitor material levels in the silos. To manage dust emissions, mixers are equipped with air filters that use vibration technology to remove airborne particles. Sensors also help prevent overpressure within the silos, ensuring safe operation.
For transporting gravel, strain gauge sensors on conveyor belts measure the material at the discharge point. Gravel trucks are controlled using frequency converters, with terminal position sensors to ensure accurate placement. Sand silos may include vibrating devices to facilitate proper charging. In more demanding applications, radar sensors are used to measure the amount of gravel in the silo, and they can also detect moisture in sand, allowing for precise adjustments during the pre-mixing process.
Water measurement is typically done using weighing scales with two control valves, followed by a parallel flow meter for greater accuracy. Additional ingredients, such as small quantities of additives, are introduced via pumps and metering scales, depending on the specific application.
In addition to optimizing the control program, the B&R automation system ensures the implementation of safety procedures for the concrete mixer. The control system not only generates reports and statistics from a database but also connects to higher-level company systems for better data management.
To reduce costs, remote I/O distribution is employed using the X20/X67 system. These modules are interconnected in a field enclosure, communicating rapidly via the X2X bus. This approach simplifies the distribution of input and output modules, reducing wiring and overall costs. The system can also connect via Ethernet with TCP/IP protocol, enabling easy integration with PLCs through an OPC server. This design allows for high flexibility and scalability.
In most cases, the controller is not limited to the mini concrete mixer itself but also manages other equipment involved in the concrete production process, such as recycling systems, sand and water heating, insulation, and lighting. Thanks to B&R’s flexible and open architecture, it is ideally suited for integrating different systems, meeting a wide range of operational needs.