Engineering Materials·MCQ explained

In small works and over short distances, concrete is transported using:

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: C. Pans

Detailed Explanation: Concrete Transport by Pans in Small Works

Why C (Pans) is correct: In small construction projects where the volume of concrete is low and distances are very short, the simplest and most economical method is manual transport using pans (shallow metal or bamboo/cane baskets). Workers carry these on their heads from the mixer to the placement point. While labour-intensive, no specialised equipment is needed.

Concrete Transportation Methods by Scale

MethodScaleDistanceVolume
Pans (head loads)Very small<30–50 mSmall batches
Wheel barrow / hand cartSmall<100 m0.1–0.3 m³ per load
Dumper / tipper truckMedium–large100–1000 m on site2–6 m³ per load
Conveyer beltLarge continuous worksUp to 300 m at ~1.5 m/sHigh throughput
Pump & pipelineLarge / high-rise400 m horizontal, 80 m verticalVery high throughput
Transit mixerRMC; large projects5–20 km road4–7 m³ per trip
  • Pans = manual transport method for small works over very short distances.
  • Disadvantage: high labour cost; risk of segregation if pans are tilted; slow.
  • For larger volumes or distances, mechanised methods (wheel barrow, dumper, pump) are preferred.