SPECIAL | Optimal concrete transport Homogeneous mass ensures beautiful, tight concrete

Traditional vibrated concrete must increasingly give way to self-compacting concrete. The latter therefore scores high marks in both quality and aesthetics. For the optimal transport of self-compacting concrete - from concrete plant to concrete mold - there is now the KUBIXX cube.

The KUBIXX concrete cube was developed and manufactured by innovative machine manufacturer Staring, which anticipated the shift to self-compacting concrete. "When transporting with the traditional funnel-shaped bucket, users do not get the benefits from self-compacting concrete," explains Michel Staring, director/owner of Staring. "The compaction process then starts too quickly. Moreover, during transport, air rises to the top and the bricks sink to the bottom. The KUBIXX cubel keeps the concrete mass moving, and then pours it into the mold as a nice homogeneous mass."

Compaction process begins in the mold

Due to the continuous mixing process, the concrete mass in the KUBIXX cubel retains its homogeneity, quality and energy. Only at the pouring stage is the energy released and the compaction process started. This allows the user to add dyes and other admixtures and adjust the composition until the last moment. "The key word is 'control,'" says Staring. "With the KUBIXX cubel, the user is in control of the mixture, from the plant to the pour. This minimizes the burden on the concrete plant and keeps the cost per m³ lower."

Thoughtful form

The shape of the KUBIXX concrete cube is also well thought out. Due to the elongated U-shape, the concrete mass stands still only a few centimeters above the unloading opening and the residue is minimal. The cubel is available with capacity sizes from 1.4 m³ - 8.5 m³ and runs on a variety of power sources. With a traction battery, the cubel can operate standalone; in the 400v version, power is supplied through the power network. The forklift can also be used as a power source. With each source, the Kubixx is hydraulically controlled.

Substantial savings

Transport with the KUBIXX cubel means savings. "Anyone who orders 10 m³ of concrete and turns out to need 9.7 m³ in practice usually dumps the remainder in a residual concrete mold," Staring explains. "With the KUBIXX cubel, the residual remains in motion and can be replenished with the next batch without any problems, which means minimal residual waste."

Just-in-time

And what about the quiet way the concrete workers can do their work? Whereas vibrated concrete must be poured into the mold immediately upon arrival, this operation is now performed when everyone is ready. Staring: "Several precast plants - including Voorbij Prefab Beton, MultiBeton, Haitsma Beton, Bisoton and Strukton Prefab Beton - have invested in the KUBIXX. They no longer want anything else." 

Staring is an innovative machine factory and focuses on optimizing the transport of concrete and flow mortars from mixer to final destination. Besides the KUBIXX for the precast concrete industry, Staring makes the SteadyFlow cylinder pumps, SteadyMixx flow machines for the screed industry and customer-specific (engineering) projects.