The concrete finishing represents a crucial phase in paving and construction processes, as it directly affects the durability, appearance, and performance of the treated surface. The power trowel or helicopter, an essential tool for smoothing and compacting fresh or partially hardened concrete, allows for obtaining uniform, high-quality surfaces.
In this buying guide, we'll provide an overview to clarify some essential features to consider when purchasing a power trowel. The choice of the most suitable model should be based on specific work requirements, from the surface to be treated to the frequency of use, thus ensuring efficiency, precision, and safety during finishing operations.
What Are Concrete Power Trowels and Their Purpose
The power trowel or helicopter is a machine equipped with one or two sets of rotating steel blades, positioned at the bottom. These blades rotate at about 150 RPM and serve to smooth and polish concrete that has already partially hardened. The blades can be adjusted in angle to achieve different results: initial rough finishing, followed by final smoothing. The engine is mounted at the machine's center to balance weight and ensure stability during use, and can be either electric or gasoline-powered.
Typically, the power trowel comes into action after concrete pouring when the concrete has begun to set but isn't completely dry. A power trowel is used to obtain a flat, compact surface that's free of imperfections and durable over time.
Power trowels are widely used for leveling industrial and commercial floors, courtyards, ramps, and sidewalks.
Types of Power Trowels
The market offers different types of power trowels, and the choice should be carefully considered based on the type of work and intensity of use.
Single walk-behind power trowels (manual): Lighter and more compact, they're ideal for confined areas or spaces difficult to access with ride-on models. The operator walks behind the machine, guiding it manually. Blade adjustment allows the machine to adapt to different concrete conditions and surfaces to be treated.
Double ride-on power trowels: These machines feature two sets of rotating blades and are designed to efficiently cover large surfaces, making them particularly suitable for major projects like industrial flooring. Within this category, there are two variants: Overlapping blades: Where blades from both sets are mounted so they don't intersect, avoiding interference and optimizing surface coverage. Non-overlapping blades: The blades intersect, offering greater versatility and adaptability to different surface types and working conditions.
To choose the ideal model, consider:
Machine diameter: Smaller machines are ideal for tight spaces, while larger ones cover wide surfaces more quickly;
Power source: Electric or gasoline engine (more powerful, ideal for outdoor/construction site work);
Rotation speed: Some machines have variable speed, ideal for adapting to different work phases;
Blade tilt adjustment: The more adjustable the blades, the greater the abrasive action;
Machine weight: The weight determines concrete compression.
Why Level Concrete
A new concrete floor has a slightly rough surface, but before it can be used, it must be made smooth and sealed. A smooth concrete floor deteriorates more slowly, is more aesthetically pleasing, and safer. The operation of a concrete power trowel is quite intuitive. The power trowel typically features a disk. Concrete is poured onto the surface to be paved, and before it fully sets, the power trowel moves back and forth, evenly distributing the concrete with its blade. This process creates a uniform layer of concrete on the desired surface. This procedure serves to close cement pores, compact, and even out the surface, achieved through a rotational movement that, combined with the machine's pressure, allows for concrete leveling.
Tips for Effective and Safe Use
The power trowel, or finishing machine, is used to smooth and finish concrete surfaces. Its operation is simple but requires attention to ensure safety and effectiveness. Below are some precautions to take before use:
Check the machine and its proper functioning, including blade integrity;
Ensure the surface to be treated is free of obstacles, protruding metal materials, or non-smoothable elements;
After work, properly turn off the engine and thoroughly clean the machine, storing it in a dry, safe place.