Choosing a construction mixer correctly
Theoretically, as a mixer, you can choose anything: a drill, a cordless screwdriver or a hammer drill. But if there is a desire to keep the tools in working condition and achieve a quality result, it will need a construction mixer or its modifications. Before you choose a construction mixer, it is useful to understand the features of this highly specialized tool. For mixing different mortars use two-handed mixers with one or two beaters, or drill mixers with lower turns. What is best depends on the specific construction tasks.
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How to determine the appropriate modification
Today, manufacturers offer three versions of the mixer:
- drill mixer;
- two-handed mixer with one whisk;
- two-handed mixer with two beaters.
Drill mixer - This is a hammerless low-speed drill with a metal gearbox, which has an unusual design. Reduced (powerful and slow) speed allows you to regularly use it as a construction mixer. The power of such a tool varies from 500 to 2000 W, depending on the reliability and manufacturer. The device has a non-standard design for the drill; there are two convenient handles for reliable grip and a large cartridge of up to 16 mm.
Relatively speaking, the drill mixer is chosen for the home, it will cope with light or medium consistency solutions. Models with a capacity of 1 kW can also be used in construction for mixing viscous foundation mixtures. In addition, low-speed drills do an excellent job not only with the normal operation of the drill, but also with the drilling of large holes. For example, when you need to drill a wooden house they use them.
Two-hand versions mixers are divided into versions with one whisk or two. The difference between them is obvious: two halos quickly and efficiently mix any, even very viscous mixture.The power of such models starts from 1 kW, if the indicator is less - you should not buy the tool.
Construction mixers with two handles are equipped with a large gear and are designed for all types of solutions: from the lightest to cement. If there is no specific purpose for use or the task area is not clear, this is the best choice.
The first thing to do before purchasing is to assess the scope of future work. It makes no sense to overpay for unused potential or a second corolla if the tool is needed for easy, one-time work. This rule is valid and vice versa, a weak drill mixer does not always cope with pouring the foundation.
Useful tips when choosing
Specifications of different models are not much different from each other. In most cases, they are altogether the same, although the price may differ markedly. There are some helpful tips on how to buy a good construction mixer.
- The minimum power of the two-handed model is 1050 W, the low-speed drill is 500 W.
- Pay attention not only to power, but also to rotation forceIt is measured in N * m (Newton meter). It is this parameter that determines the scope of use: the more newtons, the more viscous the mixture will “take” the mixer.When choosing between two models of equal power (W), the rotational force will be a decisive indicator.
- The most convenient models of two-handed mixers are where the on and off buttons are located at the grip points. Sometimes keys moved to another part of the body.
- Exists two types of attachment: thread or thread with nut. The first option is more preferable, there are much more such rims on sale. On the other hand, fit with a nut looks safer if the manufacturer (or seller) inspires confidence and offers a good assortment of consumables, such a modification will also work.
- Two-speed models will allow you to more accurately adjust the speed under a viscous or liquid mixture, but for one-time work in living conditions, this option will not bring much benefit.
- One corolla almost always “leads” the mixer along a rotational trajectory, but for models with two corollas, they rotate in different directions, it is easier to control this tool during intensive work.
- Two-handed mixers are designed for work on construction sites. They always have a very short wire, like electric saws or trimmers, so an extension cord of a corresponding capacity will be needed for the chosen model.
- Conveniently, if the city has a service center for tool maintenance.
Why the hammer drill is not a mixer
Perforators or drills, indeed, are used as a construction mixer, and manufacturers delight their customers with corners with a six-sided or SDS + fit. In fact, for any long-term work, neither the first nor the second will work.
A large role is played by the number of revolutions per minute: for a perforator or a drill, this indicator is close to 3000, which is 6 times more than the optimum for qualitative and uniform mixing of solutions.
Adjusting the speed of the task will not solve, because with a small rotation of power is lost, therefore, the motor will be overloaded. In addition, it is quite difficult to “catch” the desired position with the rheostat button. On perforators with a vertical engine arrangement there is a stepped adjustment, it is easier to set a suitable speed, but this solution is suitable only for light solutions: paints, plasters.
Conventional drills have similar technical features, but it is further complicated by a lower power rating and small gearbox. Conclusion: a drill or a perforator can mix light or medium construction solutions, but only one-time and in small volumes.
Top best models
The ranking of the best are only those models that have collected a lot of positive feedback. The choice of construction mixers is rather narrow compared to grinders or drills, and there are even fewer really good options among them. Given that the price of mixers is quite noticeable, you should not invest in dubious quality.
№ 1. Rebir
Rebir products tops the ranking of the most reliable low-speed drills. The company specializes in the production of tools for mixing various solutions, and has earned recognition.
For example, the 2-speed model IE-1206-16 / 2000ER with an aluminum gear is very popular among professionals. Choosing it, you get a quality tool. The power of the device is 2000 W, the rotation speed is 500 revolutions / min. The drill has a speed adjustment of 0 - 330/0 - 500 rpm and is equipped with a button lock function in the on position. Maximum drilling diameter in wood / steel: 70/32 mm, not every drill mixer can boast. Stationary installation is possible.
Design does not contain restrictive coupling, that is, when jamming, the tool continues to rotate, which is fraught with the failure of the crown and the inertial impact of the user. All this is compensated for by its potential and reliability: a powerful three-stage gearbox, high torque will make it possible to drill even a wet timber, including birch, with ease.
There is in assortment and two-handed mixersfor example, model EM-1450E-2. The 1.45 kW power tool with two speeds is equipped with one whisk up to 120 mm in diameter and a locking function in the on position. There is an adjustment of the revolutions of 0 - 650/0 - 1000. Its design is very similar to the two-handed mixer, and in practice it is quite comfortable. The power button is located in the place of grip, which is not only ergonomic, but also safe. The maximum volume of the solution is 65 l.
№ 2. Interskol
Tools of this manufacturer do not have a certain classification of household / professional, each model has its own purpose. The KM-60 / 1000E mixer is very popular among builders and takes the second place in the rating.
Model with one whisk equipped with a 1050 watt motor.Rotational speed up to 850 rpm / min, there are two speeds and additional hand protection. Also here is provided for adjustment of speed with maintaining power. The power key has protection against accidental pressing. The maximum diameter of the corolla is 160 mm.
№ 3. Elitech
Mixer MC 1600 / 2ED from a reliable, but little-known manufacturer attracts an affordable price and closes the rating. The functionality includes:
- two speeds;
- power 1.6 kW, the force of rotation of 50 nm;
- adjustment of turns;
- lock against accidental inclusion.
For those who do not trust an unfamiliar, but reliable manufacturer, you can recommend to look at the ZMR-1350E-2 from BISON. This is a construction mixer with one speed, two beaters and an average power of 1.35 kW.