Concrete Pump Primer

Concrete pump primer is a slurry mix used to lubricate the internal surfaces of a concrete pump, pipeline and delivery hose before the concrete pour begins. Priming the pump and pipeline before the first batch of concrete is essential to prevent the concrete from sticking to the dry pipeline walls, which can cause blockages, segregation and loss of workability in the first batches delivered. At BetonTools, we stock concrete pump primers suited to boom pumps and line pumps used in construction applications.

How concrete pump primer works
Pump primer is typically a cement-based slurry or purpose-formulated primer compound that is mixed and pumped through the pipeline ahead of the first concrete batch. The primer coats the internal surfaces of the pipeline and hoses with a lubricious layer that allows the concrete to flow freely without losing its water content or binding to the pipe walls. Without priming, the first few batches of concrete can be stripped of water by the dry pipeline, resulting in stiff, difficult-to-place concrete or a blocked line. Primer is discharged at the end hose before the concrete pour commences and is not incorporated into the structural pour. Volume of primer required depends on the pipeline length and diameter — consult the pump operator's recommendations for the specific setup. Pipeline must also be primed after any extended break during the pour if the line has been left static.

Also browse our concrete pumping equipment. Contact our team for advice.