What is Block Making Machine
A Block Making Machine is an industrial device that produces concrete blocks, bricks, pavers, and other masonry units by compacting raw materials (cement, sand, aggregates) into molds under high pressure. These machines are pivotal in construction for creating standardized building components efficiently.
History of Block Making Machine
Key milestones in block production technology:
- 1860s: First manual concrete block molds used in the US.
- 1903: Harmon Palmer patents the first commercial block-making machine.
- 1950s: Hydraulic vibration systems introduced for higher density blocks.
- 2000s: Computer-controlled machines with robotic pallet handling.
Purpose of Block Making Machine
Primary applications include:
- Construction: Producing hollow blocks, solid bricks, and fly ash bricks.
- Landscaping: Manufacturing interlocking pavers and curbstones.
- Disaster Relief: Rapid on-site production of lightweight blocks.
- Waste Recycling: Utilizing industrial byproducts like slag or crushed glass.
Principle of Block Making Machine
Operates through three core processes:
- Material Feeding: Pre-mixed concrete poured into mold cavities.
- Compaction: Hydraulic pressure (10-35 MPa) + vibration (4,000-12,000 VPM).
- Curing: Steam curing chambers (60-80°C) accelerate strength development.
Features of Block Making Machine
Advanced models incorporate:
- Programmable Logic Control: Adjust block density/size with 0.5mm precision.
- Automatic Pallet Handling: 600-1,200 blocks/hour production rates.
- Energy Recovery: Regenerative hydraulics reduce power use by 25%.
- Quick-Change Molds: Switch between block types in ≤15 minutes.
Types of Block Making Machine
Common classifications:
- Stationary: High-output plants (3,000+ blocks/day) with conveyor systems.
- Mobile: Truck-mounted units for temporary job sites.
- Operation Mode:
- Manual (lever-operated)
- Semi-automatic (human-assisted feeding)
- Fully automatic (robotic material handling)
Precautions for using Block Making Machine
Critical safety and maintenance guidelines:
- Material Gradation: Ensure aggregates ≤10mm for mold longevity.
- Vibration Isolation: Check rubber mounts every 500 operating hours.
- Moisture Control: Maintain concrete slump between 0-20mm.
- Lockout Procedures: De-energize before clearing mold jams.
Things to consider when purchasing Block Making Machine
Selection criteria:
- Block Specifications: Required dimensions (e.g., standard 400x200x200mm).
- Cycle Time: 10-60 seconds per block depending on complexity.
- Power Requirements: 3-phase 380V vs single-phase 220V compatibility.
- Local Support: Availability of technical service within 24 hours.
Terms of Block Making Machine
Key technical terminology:
- Mould Cavity: The shaped compartment determining block geometry.
- Green Strength: Compressive strength before curing (≥0.7 MPa).
- Pallet Cycle: Time between block ejection and new material feed.
- Fly Ash Ratio: Percentage of cement replaced by fly ash (up to 35%).