Introduction
Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) is a pre-mixed, high-quality concrete manufactured in batching plants and delivered to construction sites in transit mixers. It ensures precision, durability, and efficiency in modern construction, eliminating the need for on-site mixing.
What is Ready Mix Concrete (RMC)?
Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) is a factory-made concrete mixture where cement, aggregates, water, and admixtures are precisely proportioned and mixed before transportation. It is delivered in a plastic, ready-to-use state, ensuring consistency and strength.
Unlike traditional site-mixed concrete, RMC reduces labor, waste, and inconsistencies, making it ideal for large-scale projects like:
- High-rise buildings
- Bridges & highways
- Industrial floors
- Precast concrete structures
For a deeper dive, check this guide on ready mix concrete.
Difference Between Concrete and Ready Mix Concrete
| Feature | Traditional Concrete | Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Location | Mixed on-site | Pre-mixed in a plant |
| Quality Control | Variable, depends on labor | Consistent, lab-tested |
| Wastage | Higher due to manual errors | Minimal, precise batching |
| Time Efficiency | Slower due to manual mixing | Faster, ready to pour |
| Best For | Small-scale projects | Large, time-sensitive projects |
Dry Mix vs. Ready Mix Concrete
- Dry Mix Concrete:
- Ingredients (cement, sand, aggregates) are pre-mixed dry and water is added later.
- Used in small repairs, bagged concrete products.
- Less consistent than RMC.
- Ready Mix Concrete:
- Fully mixed with water before delivery.
- Ensures homogeneity and strength.
- Preferred for large-scale construction.
Learn more about types and advantages of RMC.
Which Cement is Used in RMC?
Most RMC plants use:
- Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC 43 & 53 Grade) – General construction
- Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) – Better durability, lower heat
- Sulfate-Resistant Cement (SRC) – Marine/chemical environments
The choice depends on strength requirements and environmental conditions.
How to Calculate RMC Concrete?
To estimate RMC needed:
- Volume Calculation (for slabs, beams, columns):Volume=Length×Width×ThicknessVolume=Length×Width×ThicknessExample: A 100 sq ft slab (4-inch thick) needs:100×412=33.33 cubic feet (≈1.2 m3)100×124=33.33cubic feet(≈1.2m3)
- Order 10-15% extra to account for spills and uneven surfaces.
Which Chemicals are Used in RMC?
Common admixtures in RMC:
- Plasticizers (Improve workability)
- Superplasticizers (Reduce water content)
- Accelerators (Speed up setting time)
- Retarders (Delay hardening in hot weather)
- Air-entraining agents (Freeze-thaw resistance)
What is M25 in RMC?
M25 is a concrete grade where:
- “M” stands for Mix
- “25” indicates 25 MPa compressive strength after 28 days.
Mix Ratio (Cement:Sand:Aggregate):
- 1:1:2 (with appropriate water-cement ratio)
Used in:
- Residential slabs
- Medium-load structures
For more details, see this resource on ready-mixed concrete.
How Much is 1m³ of Ready Mix Concrete?
Cost varies by region and project specs:
| Region | Approx. Cost per m³ (USD) |
|---|---|
| USA | 120−120−150 |
| UK | £90 – £120 |
| India | ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 |
Factors affecting price:
- Cement grade
- Admixtures used
- Delivery distance
What is the Ratio of RMC?
Common RMC mix ratios:
| Grade | Ratio (Cement:Sand:Aggregate) |
|---|---|
| M10 | 1:3:6 |
| M15 | 1:2:4 |
| M20 | 1:1.5:3 |
| M25 | 1:1:2 |
Process of Ready Mix Concrete Production
- Batching – Weighing raw materials (cement, aggregates, water).
- Mixing – Uniform blending in automated plants.
- Transporting – Delivered via transit mixers (kept rotating).
- Placing – Poured directly at the site.
- Curing – Maintained for optimal strength.
How Much RMC is Needed for 1000 sq ft?
Assuming 4-inch thick slab:1000×412=333.33 cubic feet (≈9.44 m3)1000×124=333.33cubic feet(≈9.44m3)
Order ~10.5 m³ (including wastage).
Density of RMC
- Standard RMC density: 2400 kg/m³ (varies with mix design).
- Lightweight RMC: 1800 kg/m³ (with expanded clay/shale).
Which Cement is Best for Slab Construction?
- OPC 53 Grade (High early strength)
- PPC (Better long-term durability)
Raw Materials for RMC
- Cement
- Fine aggregates (sand)
- Coarse aggregates (gravel, crushed stone)
- Water
- Chemical admixtures
Conclusion
Ready Mix Concrete offers precision, speed, and quality, making it the preferred choice for modern construction. Whether for M25-grade slabs or large industrial projects, RMC ensures strength, consistency, and cost-efficiency.
For further reading, explore:
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