Transport of concrete by pumps (pumpcrete) is done for a maximum horizontal distance of:
Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.
Correct answer: D. 400 m
Detailed Explanation: Pumpcrete — Maximum Transport Distance
Why D (400 m) is correct: Concrete pumped through rigid steel or flexible rubber pipelines can travel a maximum horizontal distance of 400 m from a single pump location. For vertical applications, the maximum is typically 80 m (some sources state 50 m). These values represent practical limits beyond which pressure losses become too great for standard equipment.Pump Concrete (Pumpcrete) Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Max. horizontal distance | 400 m |
| Max. vertical height | Up to 80 m |
| Required slump | 80–100 mm (medium workability) |
| Pipe diameter | 100–200 mm |
| Max. aggregate size | ≤ 1/3 of pipe internal diameter |
| Pre-pump lubrication | 1:2 cement slurry pumped first to wet the pipe walls |
| Admixtures | Plasticisers or pump aids used to maintain workability at lower w/c |
Concrete Transport by Distance — Method Selection
| Distance | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| <50 m | Pans, wheel barrows, hand carts |
| 50–500 m (on site) | Dumpers, tippers, conveyer belts |
| Up to 400 m (horizontal) | Pump and pipeline |
| 5–20 km (on road) | Transit mixer (RMC) |
- Maximum pump distance: 400 m horizontal / 80 m vertical.
- Pump requires slump 80–100 mm; aggregate size ≤ 1/3 pipe diameter.
- Pipe is first lubricated with cement slurry to prevent blockage at start-up.