Which process comes immediately after batching in the manufacture process of concrete?
Correct Answer: C. Mixing
📚 Detailed Explanation: Mixing Follows Batching in Concrete Production
Why C (Mixing) is correct: Batching is the measurement/weighing of ingredients; the immediate next step is mixing, which combines those measured ingredients (cement, aggregates, water, admixtures) into a uniform, workable concrete. You cannot place, transport, compact, or cure concrete until it has been mixed.
Complete Concrete Production Sequence
| Step | Operation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Storage | Store cement, aggregates, water, admixtures in proper conditions |
| 2 | Batching | Measure each ingredient accurately (by volume or weight) |
| 3 | Mixing | Combine all ingredients into a homogeneous concrete mix |
| 4 | Transportation | Move fresh concrete to the point of placement |
| 5 | Placing | Deposit concrete in the formwork |
| 6 | Compacting | Remove entrapped air; densify the concrete |
| 7 | Finishing | Screed, float, trowel the surface to required texture |
| 8 | Curing | Maintain moisture and temperature for strength development |
- Batching → Mixing (immediate next step).
- Minimum mixing time: 2 minutes for machine mixing (IS 1791); 1.5 minutes in a transit mixer.
- Mixing ensures uniform distribution of cement around each aggregate particle.