Construction mixer along with screwdrivers, hammer drills and angle grinders is a good helper in the implementation of projects that require the preparation of binder solutions and mixtures. This does not have to be a professional area in which the construction of a foundation or pouring a screed are common work steps. Easy repairs at home are also not always complete without the preparation of grouts, mastics, paints or plasters for walls. In these and other operations, an electric drill mixer will come to the rescue. This is not to say that this is an indispensable tool, but its function will improve the quality of the target solution and speed up the entire installation or cladding process.
What is special about drill-based mixers?
The construction tool market has been dominated by a fashion for wide functionality, versatility andmultitasking. In one model, several diverse operating modes can be combined - for example, drilling and screwdriving are available. This multi-tasking tool also includes a drill-mixer with an electric motor. By changing the nozzles, you can use the same device as a screwdriver to work with fasteners. Technically, this possibility is realized thanks to a high-speed gearbox, a pistol grip and a clamping chuck into which the desired nozzle is integrated. If we compare such a drill with conventional models without a mixer function, then the main working difference will be high power at low speeds. Such a tool is more suitable for the household, since mixing large volumes of mortar requires higher structural reliability and performance. The device of specialized mixers is not combined with the characteristics of the drill as such - this is an irrational combination.
Main features of the tool
Working potential is directly determined by the power of the electric motor. This parameter determines which solutions, in principle, the drill mixer can serve. The characteristics of the power filling in the middle range can be expressed as follows: 700-1000 W with a torque of 50-70 Nm. Actually, 500 watts will be enough to work with light paint and varnish solutions. Ordinary painting, grouting or finishing with putty requires a simple kneading within 5-10 minutes. and the designated power for this will be enough. If you plan to work with viscous solutions and in large volumes, then1000 W will be the minimum indicator of thrust. For example, the creation of mixtures from bituminous mastics or concrete mortars for the foundation is qualitatively implemented with mixers of 1500 W or more.
Torque deserves special attention. It is determined by both the features of the engine and the characteristics of the gearbox. A low speed naturally increases the frequency of the spindle, which minimizes the heating of the power base and increases traction. High speeds are optimally suited for varnishes and paints. But, of course, in a comprehensive assessment, other performance qualities will also be important, which will allow you to more accurately choose a drill mixer. The overview of models below reflects the best offerings from the major manufacturers of this tool today.
DeW alt DW 152
Balanced in performance and generally quite powerful device, suitable for professional and domestic work. The design of the mixer is based on an all-metal body, which adds durability and resistance to physical impacts to the tool. As for the engine, the DW 152 model is provided with a 1050 W two-speed power plant with a torque of 118 Nm. Although the drill mixer of this version does not have wide functionality, high performance and thoughtful design more than compensate for this shortcoming. Firstly, the mass of 7.5 kg ensures the stability of the device when performing various operations, although, of course, it is a long time to work alone with such a weightalso not easy. Secondly, the design is provided with two multi-position handles that allow you to fix the tool during operation. A shoulder rest is also provided on the back of the case.
Metabo RWE 1100 model
Optimized version of the multifunctional drill with the ability to mix mortars. With a standard power of 1100 W, the model is designed for universal typical tasks for servicing cement and gypsum mortars in small volumes. For the domestic sphere, this version is often used when working with putties, varnishes and compositions for insulators. Unlike the previous model, the RWE 1100 construction mixer has an aluminum gearbox housing, which makes it possible to support efficient heat dissipation. In terms of functionality, this device also does not surprise with anything special - except that a soft start and electronic speed control can greatly facilitate the work for beginners. But there is no useful reverse stroke mode, which is often used both when mixing mortar and when working with fasteners.
Model Makita 6013 BR
Japanese manufacturer Makita is known for high quality tools that are durable, reliable and durable. In this case, it is worth turning to an unusual combination version of the mixer with a D-shaped handle that rotates 360 degrees. That is, you can work with this tool in any position. The device also has double-sided insulation,key chuck and supports reverse. But it is important to consider that the power of 620 W significantly reduces the range of tasks that the 6013 BR drill mixer can solve. In any case, it is definitely not suitable for daily intensive work with heavy mixtures. But thanks to a mass of 2.8 kg, this model can be used in painting work that requires the delicate preparation of high-quality putties and sealants with self-leveling floors.
How to choose the right model drill mixer?
By and large, the mixing of liquid building materials requires the connection of identical units capable of setting the mass in motion at a sufficient speed and maintaining optimal speed for a long time. The difference in approaches to the choice of tool will be due to the characteristics of the mixture. Accordingly, the heavier the solution, the higher the power should be. At the same time, do not forget about the drilling function. For this task, a drill-mixer with a pistol-type design would be preferable. Staple-shaped models with handles in a D- or U-shape are more often used in work with thick mixtures. This is a more physically ergonomic design.
The nuances of choosing a nozzle
Not always drills are sold complete with a mixer nozzle. The mixer itself is a separate functional part, which has its own characteristics, characteristics and operational orientation. So, when choosing it, the first thing to consider is the format of the thread and fastening - M14 is considered the standard, butfor a light tool, M12 may also be suitable. It is also recommended to give preference to agitators, optionally provided with locks with a movable coupling. This device makes it possible to regulate the length of the overhang and the force of fixation. Of course, the arrangement of the working part is also of great importance. A frame mixer for a drill should be chosen if you plan to mix adhesive mixtures and self-levelling fillers for floor screed. Such agitators prevent air from entering the solution, which is a necessary condition for the formation of grouts. Screw models are also in demand, mixing the lower and upper layers of the solution, swapping them. Spiral design pushes light components to the bottom and lifts heavy ones to the top.
Operating instructions
Before use, the tool should be checked for technical integrity, assess the quality of the wiring and the reliability of fixing the fasteners. At the first stage of mixing, low speed should be used - this will eliminate the risk of tip failure and will allow you to evaluate the optimal rotation force for a particular composition. After some time (5-15 min.), you should stop the drill-mixer. The instructions call for short breaks to allow the engine to cool naturally. After the end of the work process, you should clean not only the nozzle, but also the body of the tool - special attention is paid to cleaning the ventilation holes from solution, dirt and dust.
Conclusion
Modern mixers for working with mortars radicallydifferent from the first wave. It's not even about the power with the number of revolutions providing sufficient traction. Today it will not be difficult to choose the right apparatus for stirring solutions with varying degrees of viscosity. The fundamental features of the new generations of the construction mixer are rather due to the functionality. It would seem that stirring the mixture is the simplest task, but it is implemented by a complex tool with an electric drive. Therefore, to improve safety, ergonomics and productivity, manufacturers provide such mixers with speed switches, a speed control system, electronic overload protection, etc.
