What is a concrete trowel?
At the base of the machine, there are one or two rotating sets of adjustable steel blades and normally the machine rotates at about 150 rpm and its function is to smooth concrete which has almost set.
A concrete trowel incorporates propeller-shaped blades, with which, by the rotational movements of these propellers, polishes and smooths a concrete surface.
Power trowels incorporate an engine that is located in the center of gravity where the blades or propellers are located, thus providing more stability and balance.
Types of concrete trowels
Depending on how they can be guided, we can distinguish twotypes of trowels.
Ride-on concrete trowelmore
This type of trowel is guided by an operator who is seated on the machine. It allows covering larger surfaces, such as, for example, those of industrial buildings.
This machine has two sets of blades, one on each side in order to speed the process for larger surfaces.
Walk-behind concrete trowelmore
The trowel’s handle can be adjusted to be positioned in the most comfortable way for the operator. This machine is perfect fortrowelling concrete in small areas, or close to pillars, doors, walls, columns, or walls because they are very light and manageable. Any area that a ride-on trowel would find very difficult to access.
Type of motor
Depending on the needs of the project, we can also distinguish between electric and gasoline power trowels.
Electric trowels are mostly chosen when, due to certain requirements, combustion engines cannot be used.
For this reason, gasoline engines are the most frequent. They make trowelling concrete easier as they are more powerful and they don’t need a cable.
You can also find gas trowels and even automatic ones.
Weight
Weight, for two main reasons, is another fundamental factor when choosing trowels, although it mostly affects walk-behind trowels.
The first of these is when the machine is taken from our facilities to the workplace. When using a double ride-on trowel, it’s immediately assumed that transporting it to the job is going to be complicated (although there can be weight differences amongst them).
The second reason is that it affects maneuverability. In other words, the harder it is to move the trowel while we are working with it, the worse the trowelling will be. If the machine is heavy, it will be difficult to move it, while if it is light, the work will be carried out easily and quickly.
Power
The greater the power of the machinery means the work can be done more efficiently and faster. If the power is insufficient, the quality of the trowelling will be affected.
Preventive measures when using a concrete trowel
If we want to avoid the risks mentioned above, we will have to take a series of measures. These safety measures are mainly focused on wearing good personal protective equipment:
- Earmuffs to protect us from the noise.
- Footwear with non-slip soles.
- Safety glasses.
- Gloves, to prevent collision with objects that may be projected by the action of the propellers.
Maintenance and use rules
- Maintenance or cleaning tasks must be carried out with the machinery turned off.
- If a machine needs to be repaired, contact authorized and qualified personnel.
- Clean any stains or spills of oil or fuel from the machine before starting it up.
- Do not touch parts of the engine while it is running.
- Remove electrical cables from the work area.
- Never leave the machine on whilst it is alone.
- Refuel with the engine cold and off.
- Store the machinery in a covered area and away from transit.
Conclusions
Concrete trowels are an essential tool for industrial flooring companies when it comes to achieving a troweled concrete surface.
«As there are so many models, you just have to know the specific needs of the job that is to be carried out in order to choose between one model or another».
There are many factors and aspects that differentiate them, if you don’t know which one to choose, always ask an expert to advise you. In addition, with so many makes and models, the choice is even more complex.
Also, you must not forget that this is not an easy-to-use tool. Using it entails a series of risks to be taken into account. It’s essential to take precautions to avoid potential accidents.
We hope to have solved all your doubts! If you want to ask us about anything else, do not hesitate to contact us. We are at your disposal.