Open AccessImproving The Efficiency of Stationary Concrete Pumps Using Whitworth Quick Return Mechanism
Author(s) -
Suraj Shyam,
Shivam Kaul,
Johnson Jesudoss,
Narendiranath Babu
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
iop conference series. materials science and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1757-899X
pISSN - 1757-8981
DOI - 10.1088/1757-899x/1123/1/012020
Subject(s) - mechanism (biology) , mechanical engineering , energy conservation , energy (signal processing) , volume (thermodynamics) , efficient energy use , engineering , process engineering , mechanics , computer science , thermodynamics , mathematics , physics , electrical engineering , statistics , quantum mechanics
The objective of this paper is to study the working of concrete pumps and to establish an alternative mechanism that would enhance their efficiency. A concrete pump is a machine used for transferring semi-solid, ready-mix concrete by pumping. As observed from the analysis of their functioning, it was evident that the transition of energy from mechanical to hydraulic, and back to mechanical during the process was accompanied with significant energy loss, which comprehensively reduced the efficiency of the concrete pump. A great proportion of this energy was lost through heat dissipation. Reducing the number of energy conversions posed to be a promising concept, for which the usage of hydraulic system in the current setup was to be withdrawn. The Whitworth Quick Return mechanism sufficed as a suitable alternative for the required purpose. It was observed from the mathematical analysis of the new mechanism that the theoretical flow rate increased from 45m 3 /h to 73m 3/ h, indicating a higher volume of concrete being pumped at the same input energy supply.