Masonry Magazine April 2007 Page. 60
MORTAR MIXERS
The less expensive, belt-driven systems are the bread and butter for most mason contractors. Some of these machines may require a bit more attention, such as regular maintenance and replacement of worn parts, such as gears and belts, but they are the true workhorses of the masonry industry and continue to outsell all other powered mortar mixers.
So how do the various manufacturers, who are using similar engines, differentiate themselves from the competition? One way is through the engine housing or engine cap design. For example, Buddy Equipment's new engine cap design allows his mixer to be operated with the engine cap closed. In fact, OSHA requirements mandate that engine caps be closed while the mixers are in use, but frequently crews ignore this mandate for convenience sake. Swisher said: "Because it is inconvenient for the engine caps to be closed because of the way they are designed, most people operate their mixers with the engine caps open."
Also, the front part of Buddy's new engine cap design encloses all of the mixer's drive components. This cabinet, therefore, keeps debris away from these components and promotes longer life for the mixer. Swisher said this innovation would make a major contribution to portable mortar mixer design.
Paddles and Drums
In daily use, what may matter most is the durability and efficacy of the paddles and drums. "If buying a paddle mixer, examine the paddle configuration and shape of the drum," said Warren Faler, product manager for Multiquip Inc. of Carson, Calif., which also manufactures mixers under the Essick and Stow brands. "Short deep drums are more efficient than long, shallow drums because the paddles don't have to move the material as far. Determine the drum capacity and power required. Look for thick metal drums.... The mixer should have safety guards," he added, "providing operator protection and easy access for cleaning."
Steel is the most common material for drum construction, but steel grades and thicknesses can vary among manufacturers, so know what your general job requirements are before buying. For instance, Toker offers one of the thickest-grade steel drums-3/16 inch-in the industry, which the company says is 50 percent thicker than other companies. Not that dry cleaning should be encouraged.