Masonry Magazine April 1998 Page. 15
Why Buy a Small-Line Concrete/Grout Pump
By David Kuhla
Before we answer this question, let's take a look at a phenomenon that has consumed America and greatly affected the construction industry: El Nino. The winter of 1997-1998 will probably go down on record as one of the most devastating in history. El Nino storms wreaked havoc across much of the country, from San Francisco to Los Angeles and into Florida. California experienced its worst floods and mudslides ever, while Florida was ravaged by tornadoes that killed scores of people and caused damage equal to that of Hurricane Andrew.
Still, every cloud has a silver lining. Although El Nino caused destruction and despair for thousands of people, it also created jobs for thousands more who must help repair our damaged infrastructure. This reconstruction will only increase business to an already booming construction industry. One thing is certain: demand for construction equipment will soar, and a good pump needs to be able to cover a wide range of applications. A concrete/grout pump is an excellent choice for masonry grouting, shotcrete (wet gunning), swimming pools, channel lining for flood control, vault and crypt construction, lining irrigation ditches and reservoirs, foundation work, slabs and basements, pool decks and patios, column work, and pressure grouting and mud jacking.
More than ever, America's busy contractor wants to get the job done quickly and economically so he can move on to the next project. A lot of machines are fast and cheap, but how many of them also produce excellent results? You would be surprised. Ask for the manufacturer's performance specs before purchasing a pump. If you are logical, if you have foresight, you can see the big picture being painted here. Speed means nothing if the results are inferior. When a contractor stakes his reputation on a piece of equipment, it needs to deliver on all levels, from productivity and performance to quality results.
Now we come to back to the question of "Why buy a small-line concrete/grout pump?" Quite simply, today's pumps are designed to excel in all areas. They are extremely reliable, productive and cost-effective and help contractors achieve superior work, the kind that pays off in repeat business. For many contractors, the work generated by El Nino creates an unparalleled opportunity to build future business. A concrete/grout pump can help ensure their success. Why are today's mechanical pumps worth the investment? Let's take a look at a few reasons why.
Designed for Top Performance. Today's pumps are made with experience and the expert knowledge of decades of engineering. When you buy a pump today, you are buying a machine that has been tested and enhanced for decades. When you buy a pump today, you are getting the most pumping power per dollar than ever before. Today's pumps are versatile, giving contractors more options for less money. Pumps are also designed to give uniform strengths throughout structures where they are used. The best pumps provide the best possible fuel consumption and quieter performance. Other ecological benefits include the process of Continued on page 26