BETONBLOCK®: ACCESSORIES

Everything you need for producing concrete blocks

In our range, you will find the following accessories:

1. Concrete mixing bucket;
2. Concrete pouring table;
3. Release agent;
4. Oil pump;
5. Vibrating needle;
6. Smoothing rake;
7. High-pressure cleaner.

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More information about concrete production accessories

Frequently asked questions about accessories for concrete blocks

The right accessories make concrete block production easier and more efficient. Examples include mould release oil for easy demoulding, a concrete vibrator for proper compaction, and a mould opener for opening the concrete mould with ease. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about using accessories in concrete block production.

How long should you vibrate concrete?

There is no fixed vibration time that applies to every concrete mix and concrete block mould. Vibrate the concrete briefly and in a controlled manner at each position until you can see that the air bubbles have decreased significantly and the concrete is properly compacted around the vibrator. Then move the vibrator to the next position. The required duration depends on factors such as the consistency of the concrete, the amount of concrete, and the dimensions of the mould. Vibrating for too short a time can cause trapped air and voids, while excessive vibration can lead to segregation of the concrete.

Why should you not stir concrete with a concrete vibrator?

A concrete vibrator is designed to compact concrete, not to move it around the mould or stir it. Lower the vibrator into the concrete in a controlled manner and let the vibrations do the work. Using the vibrator like a stirring rod can cause the concrete mix to move unnecessarily or segregate. It also increases the risk of the vibrator hitting the steel concrete mould or other components. Therefore, work systematically and move the vibrator to the next position each time.

Why should concrete moulds be oiled?

Applying mould release oil to the inside of the steel concrete mould before pouring prevents the hardened concrete from sticking to the steel mould. This makes the concrete block easier to demould and reduces the risk of damaging the block. Mould release oil also helps keep the mould clean and protects the steel against rust. Regular and correct application of oil therefore also contributes to the maintenance of your concrete moulds.

How do I use mould release oil for my concrete mould?

Before pouring, apply a thin, even layer of mould release oil to all the internal surfaces of the concrete mould that will come into contact with fresh concrete. You can use an oil pump with a spray gun to distribute the oil easily over the surface. Make sure the entire contact surface is treated and avoid leaving unnecessary amounts of oil in particular areas. The mould is then ready to be filled with concrete.

How soon can concrete be demoulded?

You can demould concrete after 24 hours. You can only lift the blocks by their anchors after 24–72 hours. The right time to demould depends on the concrete mix, temperature, weather conditions, block dimensions, and the development of the concrete's strength. Only demould the block once the concrete has gained sufficient strength to retain its shape and come out of the mould without damage. Demoulding too early can damage the edges, corners, or other parts of the concrete block. Therefore, take into account the properties of the concrete used and the conditions in which it hardens.

Can I also use the accessories for concrete slabs, retaining walls, and other concrete products?

BETONBLOCK offers specific lifting equipment for concrete slabs, retaining walls, and other concrete products. Various Betonblock® accessories can be used for several types of concrete products. For example, mould release oil, an oil pump, a finishing screed, and cleaning equipment can also be used in the production of concrete slabs, retaining walls, and barriers. Which accessories are suitable depends on the concrete product and the mould being used. Therefore, always check whether the accessory in question is suitable for your application.

How do I prepare a concrete mould before applying mould release oil?

Make sure the inside of the concrete mould is clean before applying mould release oil. Remove any remaining concrete and other dirt so the oil can be distributed evenly over the surface. At the same time, check that the mould and its fasteners are in good condition. Then apply a thin, even layer of mould release oil to the surfaces that will come into contact with fresh concrete. This prepares the mould for the next pour.

How much mould release oil do you need per m²?

One litre of Betonblock® mould release oil can treat approximately 30 to 50 m² of surface. A 20-litre container is therefore sufficient for at least 600 m². Actual consumption may depend on the application method and the surface of the mould. Apply the oil thinly and evenly: using more oil than necessary does not automatically result in easier demoulding.

What are the consequences of vibrating concrete incorrectly?

Incorrect compaction can affect both the appearance and the quality of the concrete block. Insufficient vibration can leave air bubbles, voids, and areas that have not been properly filled. This can result in a less even surface and the formation of weak spots. Excessive or incorrect vibration can instead cause segregation, in which the different components of the concrete separate from one another. Therefore, use the vibrator in a controlled manner and distribute the vibration evenly throughout the mould.

How do you open a concrete mould easily?

You can easily open a Betonblock® concrete mould using the corresponding mould opener. Once the concrete has hardened sufficiently, first release the mould fasteners. Then use the mould opener to separate the mould from the concrete block in a controlled manner. If the inside was properly treated with mould release oil beforehand, the hardened concrete will come away from the steel mould more easily. Do not force the mould open if the concrete has not hardened sufficiently or if the block is still stuck to the mould.