How to use a helicopter to grind a concrete floor: technology, types of grinding machines

Although it may sound like a high-tech operation, using a helicopter to grind a concrete floor is a common and effective technique used in many construction projects. This procedure contributes to the creation of a polished, smooth surface that is both long-lasting and appealing. Gaining an understanding of the technology and tools involved is crucial, regardless of whether you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your floor or prepare it for a new coating.

In this context, "helicopter" refers to a particular kind of floor grinding machine, commonly called a power trowel. These machines are available in a range of sizes and varieties, each appropriate for a particular type of grinding task. They have revolving blades that smooth out the concrete’s surface, eliminating flaws and producing a polished look. In addition to expediting the process, using a helicopter for grinding guarantees a more uniform and polished outcome.

There are various varieties of grinding machines available, each intended to meet particular requirements. While some are ride-on machines that are perfect for large areas and heavy-duty grinding, others are walk-behind models that are perfect for smaller spaces or detailed work. The size of the project, the state of the concrete, and the desired finish all influence the machine type selection.

These devices’ technology has greatly improved, making them more effective and user-friendly. Ergonomic controls, dust extraction systems, and adjustable blade settings are common features of contemporary power trowels. In addition to making the task simpler, these features increase safety and lower the possibility of damaging the concrete surface.

Knowing how to grind a concrete floor with a helicopter will help you get a superior finish that improves the surface’s overall appearance and longevity. Understanding the fundamentals of this technology and the different kinds of machines available will help you make the best decisions and complete your project with the best outcomes, whether you’re a professional contractor or a do-it-yourself enthusiast.

Purpose of grinding machines

There are many different settings where a helicopter is used to grout concrete, including big spaces like hangars, warehouses, terminals, and residential apartments. In the first instance, concrete is processed to even out the surface and get rid of any imperfections or cracks in preparation for applying a different material coating later.

As a final step, helicopter concrete grinding is used for floor grouting in warehouses and production/industrial spaces. All flaws are eliminated, the surfaces are given the appropriate degree of evenness and smoothness, and the floor is fit for comfortable use.

A helicopter’s primary function when grouting concrete is to process a concrete floor to a high standard, resulting in the best possible surface with the least amount of time and effort required.

The innovative method of grinding concrete floors with a helicopter provides smooth, long-lasting surfaces for a range of uses. Concrete helicopters, or specialized grinding machines, are used in this method to efficiently level and polish concrete. These machines come in various varieties that meet different requirements, ranging from first rough grinding to fine polishing. With this technology, the floor’s finish is improved, making it perfect for commercial, industrial, and even residential settings. It also offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface.

Types and characteristics

The basic components of a concrete grinding helicopter are a drive, a gearbox, a frame, one or more blades, operator protection, and a control system. The blades themselves rotate at a high speed, first grinding the surface with a disk placed on top of them.

A concrete grinding helicopter can be powered by either diesel (very seldom used), gasoline, or electric power. Fuel-powered equipment is portable, strong, and suitable for processing large surfaces in open spaces; however, it needs ventilation when used indoors. Closed areas can be utilized with electric machines, but they need to be able to connect to the network.

A concrete floor grinding helicopter can be configured with a variable working disk diameter, varying rotational speeds, and a tunable blade angle. Each model varies in terms of the length of the blades, engine power, and the way the operator interacts with the device (a person can arrange for a specific location or device to be driven by him).

The units can be classified as single-rotor (for rough processing of small areas) or double-rotor (usually self-propelled, high-performance, and large-sized) depending on the number of blades.

When selecting a machine when using a helicopter to grind concrete, you should consider the unit’s specifications. As a result, the rotation range determines how strong the impact is on the surface being processed. At least 200 revolutions per minute is the minimum rotation speed needed for both rough and finishing processing. Adjustability of the rotation speed is desirable.

Diameter is a measure of the equipment’s productivity and degree of maneuverability. It is preferable to select a diameter of 610 millimeters when using a helicopter to grind concrete floors in small spaces or on figured sites with tight passageways. It can take up to 900 millimeters to grout a large area quickly and effectively.

Single-rotor

The average processing area for a single-rotor concrete finishing machine (helicopter) is 500 square meters. Models come with one blade that can have a diameter of up to 1.2 meters and either an electric or gasoline drive. The rotational force and speed can be changed.

An extended handle with buttons and levers controls the device (the worker drives the machine). These devices are distinguished by their portability, adaptability, light weight, compact design, and comfort during use.

Two-rotor

A two-rotor finishing machine, also known as a helicopter, is already considered professional equipment and is capable of processing surfaces up to 500 square meters. Only large areas free of obstructions and surface configuration changes are suitable for the operation of a large-scale productive self-propelled machine.

Two troweling blades, each with a diameter of 600–1200 millimeters, are typically included with models. The devices typically run on electricity or gasoline (diesel fuel is rarely used because it functions the same way as gasoline and is only an option for those who have free access to it).

The operator of the devices, who typically sits in a special chair between the rotors, can sit low or high. manipulates joysticks, buttons, or levers.

Application and operating principle

In addition to giving concrete the appropriate qualities and characteristics, helicopter grinding of concrete floors removes the possibility of coating delamination during operation as a result of cement milk protruding on the monolith’s surface.

The method is very simple: high-speed grinding blades operating at a specific vertical pressure and speed rub materials forcefully into the concrete body to strengthen the screed’s upper layers. The angle of inclination of the disks (blades) can be adjusted to increase efficiency.

Grouting concrete floors is done in two steps. Initially, rough grouting is done 4–20 hours after pouring when the concrete footprint still has a depth of up to 3 millimeters. Cement-based toppings are used for extra reinforcement, and the process doesn’t start until the product has absorbed moisture from the floor.

Initially, an even layer of the composition is applied to the concrete, and then roughly two thirds of the mass is rubbed into the monolith, followed by another third after some time. The work is done in two passes, which must be perpendicular to one another, with the blade being turned on by the unit at a reduced speed.

Within 10 to 16 hours after the rough grouting is finished, a concrete grinding machine (helicopter) completes the final grouting (the floor should darken, should not stain hands, and should not be pressed through). The concrete becomes stable and less prone to crack propagation after the machine rubs in one or two layers of the dust-removing impregnation. Finishing blades are crossed and the work is completed quickly in two passes (as well as perpendicularly).

How to choose a trowel

When selecting grinding machines, you should consider a few fundamental factors: the model’s availability and the financial viability of the expenses; the area’s size and the presence or absence of obstacles; and the unit’s operating frequency. The power, grip width, and engine type of a concrete grinding machine (helicopter) can all vary.

Although the engine type has an impact on performance and comfort, it essentially has no effect on the quality of the work. Electric and fuel drives are utilized in closed spaces of varying capacities.

Small spaces with difficult-to-reach areas are better suited for single-rotor machines with a single blade that measures between 30 and 61 centimeters. Large-scale tasks are better suited for two-rotor machines. Machines with a 90-centimeter blade diameter are regarded as universal.

The width of the grip is determined by the smoothing blades’ diameter, which directly impacts the equipment’s productivity. Working with nozzles up to 1.2 meters is a serious task. It is necessary for the rotation speed to change. Rough grouting and final polishing can be done with a machine that rotates at a speed of about 200 revolutions per minute.

Examples of manufacturers

These days, a vast array of machines with specific features from various manufacturers are available on the market. In Moscow, Masalta, ENAR, MISOM, Wacker Neuson, and VPK are well-liked; there are numerous models.

The QJM-600 Werk, made in Germany, is a perfectly balanced electric drive unit with a folding handle, protective rim, and 3 kW of power. It can be adjusted for the processing depth and has a 60 centimeter grout diameter and a 50 to 115 rpm rotation speed. It weighs 53 kilograms. This is the perfect tool for small-scale work.

The Swedish-made gasoline Tremix g1203b, which has a 120-centimeter disk and a Honda GX 270 engine, is a suitable option if you require a more potent unit. If you require a two-rotor concrete grinding machine (also known as a helicopter), you can choose the Spanish LR900 self-propelled model. The kit comes with a disk, 90-centimeter-diameter blades, external lighting, a strong Honda GX 670 drive, and a weight of approximately 325 kg.

A smooth, long-lasting finish can be obtained for a concrete floor quickly and effectively by grinding the surface with a helicopter. This method, also known as power troweling, entails polishing the concrete surface with a specialized tool known as a helicopter or power trowel, which is made up of rotating blades. This process strengthens and extends the life of the floor in addition to improving its appearance.

In this process, a variety of grinding machine types are employed, each intended for particular purposes and finishes. Ride-on trowels are more appropriate for larger, open spaces, while walk-behind trowels are best for smaller spaces and detailed work. Furthermore, a variety of blade and disc options are available, enabling varying degrees of polishing and grinding to achieve the required results. To get the best results, these machines must be chosen and operated properly.

The proper procedures and tools must be used in order to guarantee a successful grinding process. First, clean the concrete surface, making sure all debris and imperfections are gone. Next, to get a smoother finish, use the helicopter to grind the floor in several passes while progressively advancing to finer grit blades or discs. To prevent uneven surfaces, it’s critical to keep the pressure and speed constant throughout the process. Lastly, to protect the floor and improve its appearance, seal it.

All things considered, using a helicopter to grind a concrete floor is a useful method for both home and business projects. It provides an excellent finish that is long-lasting and visually beautiful. You can get great results and prolong the life of your concrete floors by being aware of the different kinds of grinding machines that are available and by using the right techniques.

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