1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Zipper ZI-BTM160 Concrete Mixer. This manual provides essential information for the safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new concrete mixer. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine to ensure proper use and to prevent injury or damage.
The Zipper ZI-BTM160 is a durable and robust concrete mixer designed for various mixing tasks, including concrete, mortar, and plaster. Its multicolour design makes it easily identifiable on a job site.
2. Safety Instructions
Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Read the Manual: Before operation, read and understand all instructions and safety warnings in this manual.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Dust masks are recommended when mixing dry materials.
- Work Area: Ensure your work area is clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions. Do not operate the mixer in wet or damp conditions.
- Electrical Safety: Connect the mixer to a properly grounded outlet. Do not use extension cords unless absolutely necessary, and ensure they are rated for outdoor use and the mixer's power requirements.
- Stability: Place the mixer on a firm, level surface to prevent tipping during operation.
- Keep Clear: Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from moving parts of the mixer. Never insert objects into the drum while it is rotating.
- Children and Bystanders: Keep children and bystanders at a safe distance from the operating mixer.
- Unplug When Not in Use: Always unplug the mixer from the power source before performing any adjustments, maintenance, or when not in use.
- Overloading: Do not overload the mixer. Refer to the specifications for maximum capacity.
- Transportation: Ensure the mixer is stable and secured when transporting.
3. Product Overview and Components
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Zipper ZI-BTM160 Concrete Mixer.
Figure 3.1: Overview of the Zipper ZI-BTM160 Concrete Mixer. This image shows the complete assembly of the concrete mixer, featuring its bright green drum, black frame, control panel, and wheels for portability. The large handwheel for tilting the drum is visible on the left side.
Key Components:
- Mixing Drum: The main container where materials are mixed.
- Motor Housing/Control Panel: Encloses the motor and contains the ON/OFF switch and electrical connections.
- Tilting Handwheel: Used to tilt and empty the mixing drum.
- Frame/Stand: Provides stability and support for the mixer.
- Wheels: For easy transportation of the mixer.
- Mixing Blades/Paddles: Internal components within the drum that facilitate mixing.
4. Setup and Assembly
The Zipper ZI-BTM160 comes with installation hardware. Assembly is required before first use. It is recommended to have a second person assist with assembly.
- Unpack: Carefully unpack all components and check against the packing list to ensure all parts are present.
- Assemble Frame: Connect the frame sections using the provided bolts and nuts. Ensure all connections are secure.
- Attach Wheels: Mount the wheels to the designated axle on the frame.
- Mount Drum Halves: Assemble the two halves of the mixing drum. Ensure the gasket between the halves is properly seated to prevent leaks. Some users recommend applying silicone sealant to the gasket and bolt holes for improved sealing.
- Install Mixing Paddles: Secure the mixing paddles inside the drum. Ensure all necessary washers are used.
- Attach Drum to Frame: Carefully lift and secure the assembled drum onto the frame's pivot points.
- Install Tilting Mechanism: Attach the tilting handwheel and its mechanism to the drum and frame, ensuring smooth operation.
- Connect Motor Housing: Secure the motor housing and control panel to the frame. Ensure all electrical connections are properly made and protected.
- Final Check: Before plugging in, manually rotate the drum and check all bolted connections for tightness. Ensure the mixer is stable on its feet.
Note: The assembly process typically takes about 30 minutes with assistance. Pay close attention to the drum's sealing and the stability of the locking mechanism for the drum's position.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps for safe and effective operation of your concrete mixer.
- Preparation:
- Position the mixer on a firm, level surface.
- Ensure the power switch is in the "OFF" position before plugging into a grounded outlet.
- Wear appropriate PPE.
- Starting the Mixer:
- Plug the mixer into the power supply.
- Press the "ON" button (usually green) on the control panel. The drum should begin to rotate.
- Loading Materials:
- With the drum rotating, gradually add the mixing ingredients (e.g., water, cement, sand, aggregate) in the recommended order for your mix.
- Do not overload the drum. Refer to the specifications for the maximum mixing capacity.
- Add water slowly to achieve the desired consistency.
- Mixing:
- Allow the materials to mix thoroughly until a uniform consistency is achieved. This typically takes a few minutes.
- Unloading:
- Position a wheelbarrow or container under the drum opening.
- Use the tilting handwheel to slowly tilt the drum and discharge the mixed material.
- Once emptied, return the drum to its upright position.
- Stopping the Mixer:
- Press the "OFF" button (usually red) on the control panel.
- Unplug the mixer from the power source.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Zipper ZI-BTM160 Concrete Mixer.
- Cleaning After Each Use:
- Immediately after each use, clean the inside and outside of the drum.
- Add water and a small amount of gravel to the drum and run the mixer for a few minutes to clean the interior.
- Rinse thoroughly with water. Do not use high-pressure water directly on the motor or electrical components.
- Scrape off any hardened concrete or mortar from the drum and paddles.
- Lubrication:
- Periodically lubricate moving parts, such as the tilting mechanism and drum bearings, with appropriate grease.
- Check Fasteners:
- Regularly check all bolts, nuts, and screws for tightness. Tighten as necessary.
- Electrical Cord:
- Inspect the power cord for any signs of damage (cuts, fraying). Replace if damaged.
- Storage:
- Store the mixer in a dry, protected area when not in use. The legs can be folded inwards for more compact storage.
Important: The paint inside the drum may flake off over time and mix with the material. This is a known characteristic and generally does not affect the performance of the mixer or the quality of the mix for non-critical applications.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your concrete mixer.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mixer does not start. | No power supply; Power switch off; Motor overload protection tripped. | Check power connection and outlet; Ensure switch is ON; Allow motor to cool down and reset overload protection if applicable. |
| Drum leaks at the seam. | Gasket not properly seated or damaged; Bolts not tight enough. | Check and reseat gasket; Tighten bolts; Apply silicone sealant during assembly for better seal. |
| Mixer vibrates excessively. | Uneven surface; Loose fasteners; Unbalanced load in drum. | Place mixer on a level surface; Check and tighten all fasteners; Ensure materials are evenly distributed in the drum. |
| Drum tilting mechanism is stiff or loose. | Lack of lubrication; Worn parts; Improper assembly of locking bar. | Lubricate moving parts; Inspect for worn components and replace if necessary; Check assembly of the locking bar for proper engagement. |
If you encounter issues not listed here or if the problem persists after attempting the solutions, please contact customer support.
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | ZI-BTM160 |
| Manufacturer | Zipper |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 11 x 16 x 100 cm |
| Weight | 62 Kilograms |
| Color | Multicolour |
| Included Components | Installation hardware |
| Spare Parts Availability | 1 Year |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Zipper website. Spare parts are available for 1 year from the date of purchase.
If you require assistance with assembly, operation, or troubleshooting, please contact Zipper customer service or your authorized dealer.
