Cement Mixers

About Cement Mixers

Cement mixers are essential pieces of equipment for any construction project requiring consistent, well-mixed concrete or mortar. Whether you're laying foundations, building walls, or undertaking general groundwork, a reliable cement mixer saves time, reduces physical strain, and ensures a superior quality mix compared to manual methods. At TooledUp, we stock a carefully selected range of cement mixers from trusted manufacturers including Belle, Draper, and Handy, designed to meet the demands of professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts alike.

Our cement mixer range includes various capacities and power options to suit different project scales and site conditions. From portable electric models perfect for smaller jobs and domestic projects, to robust diesel-powered machines with electric start capabilities for commercial construction sites, you'll find the right mixer for your requirements. Modern cement mixers feature durable drums, stable frames, and ergonomic controls that make mixing concrete safer and more efficient than ever before.

The quality of your concrete mix directly impacts the strength and longevity of your finished work, making a dependable cement mixer a worthwhile investment for anyone regularly working with cement, concrete, or mortar. With capacities typically measured in litres, our mixers can handle everything from small batches for repair work to larger volumes needed for substantial construction projects.

Jargon Buster

Drum Capacity

The volume of the mixing drum, typically measured in litres. This indicates the maximum amount of concrete or mortar you can mix in a single batch. Working capacity is usually around 60-70% of the total drum size.

Electric Start

A feature on diesel-powered mixers that allows you to start the engine at the push of a button rather than using a pull cord, making operation easier and more convenient on busy construction sites.

H-Frame vs Stand-Mounted

H-frame mixers feature a sturdy H-shaped base that provides excellent stability and typically allows the drum to be tipped for easy pouring. Stand-mounted mixers have a central column support and may offer greater portability.

Gearbox Drive

A mechanical system that transfers power from the motor to the drum. Quality gearbox construction ensures smooth, reliable operation and longer equipment lifespan.

Single Phase vs Three Phase

Single phase (230V) is standard domestic electrical supply in the UK, suitable for smaller mixers. Three phase (400V) is industrial power supply offering more consistent performance for larger machines on commercial sites.

Yoke Design

The pivoting mechanism that allows the drum to be tilted for pouring. A robust yoke design ensures smooth operation and prevents spillage during pouring.

Who Uses Cement Mixers?

Cement mixers are indispensable tools for a wide variety of trades and users, including:

• Bricklayers and Blocklayers - for consistent mortar mixing when building walls, chimneys, and structures
• Groundworkers and Landscapers - preparing concrete for foundations, paths, patios, and post footings
• General Builders - for various concreting tasks across residential and commercial projects
• Plasterers and Renderers - mixing base coats and preparing render in larger quantities
• Property Maintenance Contractors - handling repair and renovation work requiring concrete or mortar
• Farmers and Agricultural Workers - constructing farm buildings, repairing structures, and laying hard standings
• DIY Enthusiasts - tackling substantial home improvement projects such as extensions, garages, or garden features
• Hire Companies - providing reliable equipment for short-term construction projects

How to Choose the Right Cement Mixer

Selecting the appropriate cement mixer depends on several key factors related to your specific requirements:

Power Source: Electric mixers (230V single phase) are ideal for domestic projects and sites with mains power available. They're quieter, require less maintenance, and are more environmentally friendly. Diesel-powered mixers suit larger commercial sites, remote locations without electricity, and projects requiring extended continuous operation. Consider whether an electric start diesel model would benefit your workflow.

Drum Capacity: Match the mixer capacity to your typical batch sizes and project scale. Smaller 100-150 litre mixers are perfectly adequate for DIY projects and repair work, whilst 170-200 litre capacities suit professional tradespeople handling larger volumes. Remember that working capacity is approximately 60-70% of total drum volume.

Frame Design and Portability: H-frame mixers provide excellent stability on uneven ground and easier pouring through their tilting mechanism. Consider whether you'll need to move the mixer frequently around sites - smaller models with wheels offer greater manoeuvrability, whilst heavier-duty machines prioritise stability over portability.

Build Quality and Durability: Look for robust construction with reinforced drums, heavy-duty gearboxes, and corrosion-resistant components. Premium brands like Belle offer commercial-grade build quality designed for intensive daily use, whilst quality mid-range options from Draper provide excellent reliability for regular professional use.

Site Conditions: Consider the terrain where you'll be working. Rough or sloped sites benefit from wider wheelbases and more substantial frames. If working in residential areas, noise levels may be a consideration, favouring electric models over diesel.

Budget and Usage Frequency: For occasional DIY use, a quality entry-level mixer offers excellent value. Professional tradespeople using equipment daily should invest in commercial-grade models with superior components and longer warranties, as the reliability and longevity justify the higher initial cost.

Popular Accessories

• Spare Mixing Paddles and Blades - replacement parts to maintain optimal mixing performance
• Wheelbarrows and Concrete Barrows - for transporting mixed concrete from mixer to pour location
• Shovels and Spades - for loading aggregate, sand, and cement into the mixer
• Measuring Buckets - ensuring accurate proportions for consistent concrete strength
• Spirit Levels and Measuring Tapes - for setting up mixers on level ground and measuring pour depths
• Protective Covers and Tarpaulins - protecting your mixer from weather damage when stored outdoors
• Floats and Trowels - finishing tools for working with the mixed concrete
• Heavy-Duty Extension Leads - providing safe power supply to electric mixers (suitable for outdoor use, RCD protected)
• Workwear and PPE - including safety boots, gloves, and eye protection from brands like Scruffs and Portwest
• Cleaning Brushes and Scrapers - maintaining your mixer and preventing concrete build-up

Safety Information

Cement mixers are powerful machines that require proper safety precautions to prevent injury and ensure safe operation:

Before Use: Always read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before operating any cement mixer. Inspect the machine for damage, loose components, or worn parts. Ensure the mixer is positioned on firm, level ground and that the drum rotation is clear of obstructions. Check that all guards and safety features are in place and functioning correctly.

Personal Protective Equipment: Wear appropriate PPE including safety boots with steel toecaps, protective gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and dust masks when handling dry cement. Cement is highly alkaline and can cause skin burns and respiratory irritation - always minimise direct contact.

Electrical Safety: For electric mixers, use outdoor-rated extension leads in good condition and protect the supply with an RCD (residual current device). Never touch electrical components with wet hands, and keep power cables away from the rotating drum and water sources. Comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations for outdoor electrical equipment.

During Operation: Never put your hands, tools, or any objects into the drum whilst it's rotating. Keep loose clothing, jewellery, and long hair away from moving parts. Do not overload the mixer beyond its rated capacity as this can strain the motor and create instability. Always switch off and disconnect from power before making adjustments or cleaning.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Clean the mixer thoroughly after each use to prevent concrete hardening inside the drum, which can cause imbalance and damage. Disconnect from power or ensure the engine is off before cleaning. Regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's schedule will ensure safe, reliable operation and comply with HSE equipment maintenance requirements.

Manual Handling: Cement mixers can be heavy. Use proper lifting techniques and seek assistance when moving or positioning equipment to prevent back injuries and strains. Where possible, use the mixer's wheels to transport rather than lifting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size cement mixer do I need for typical building projects?

For most DIY and small to medium building projects, a mixer with a 120-150 litre drum capacity is sufficient. Professional builders and contractors working on larger projects typically opt for 170-200 litre capacity mixers. As a guide, a 150 litre mixer can comfortably handle one bag of cement plus appropriate sand and aggregate ratios, producing enough concrete for approximately 10-15 concrete blocks or several metres of brickwork.

How do I maintain my cement mixer to ensure longevity?

The most critical maintenance task is thorough cleaning after every use - never allow concrete to harden inside the drum. Run the mixer with water and aggregate (gravel) for a few minutes to scour the interior, then rinse thoroughly. Regularly check and tighten bolts, lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer's instructions, and inspect the drive belt or gearbox for wear. For diesel models, follow standard engine maintenance schedules including oil changes. Store under cover when not in use to prevent weather damage and corrosion.

Can I use a cement mixer for mixing other materials besides concrete?

Yes, cement mixers are versatile and can be used for various materials including mortar for bricklaying, render, screed, and even plaster base coats. They're also useful for mixing soil amendments in landscaping projects. However, always clean thoroughly between different materials, and avoid mixing anything that could damage the drum surface or contaminate future batches. Never use cement mixers for food products or flammable materials.

Do I need three-phase power for a cement mixer, or will domestic electricity suffice?

Most small to medium capacity cement mixers (up to approximately 150 litres) operate perfectly well on standard UK domestic single-phase 230V power supply, making them suitable for home use and smaller sites. Larger industrial mixers may require three-phase 400V power, typically only available on commercial construction sites. If you're unsure about your site's electrical supply, check the mixer's power requirements against your available supply before purchasing, or consider a diesel-powered alternative for maximum flexibility.

What's the difference between drum capacity and working capacity?

The drum capacity is the total internal volume of the mixing drum, whilst the working capacity (or output) is the actual usable volume of mixed concrete you can produce per batch - typically 60-70% of the total drum capacity. This difference exists because you need space for the materials to tumble and mix effectively. Overfilling beyond the working capacity results in poor mixing quality and potential spillage. Always refer to the working capacity when planning your concrete requirements for a project.