Difference Between Batching Plant (RMC) and Site Mix Concrete | Q & A

Difference Between Batching Plant (RMC) and Site-Mix Concrete

Below is a clear, point-by-point comparison focusing on quality, control, and site practice.

1. Definition

Batching Plant (RMC):

• Concrete produced at a centralized batching plant

• Delivered to site using transit mixers

Site-Mix Concrete:

• Concrete mixed at the construction site

• Using a drum mixer or pan mixer

2. Quality Control

RMC:

• High quality control

• Computerized batching

• Precise water–cement ratio

Site-Mix:

• Manual or semi-manual control

• Higher chance of variation and human error

3. Mixing Accuracy

RMC:

• Exact proportioning by weight

• Consistent mix every batch

Site-Mix:

• Often volume batching

• Inconsistent proportions

4. Workability & Strength

RMC:

• Uniform workability

• Reliable compressive strength

Site-Mix:

• Variable workability

• Strength may fluctuate

5. Speed & Productivity

RMC:

• Faster concreting

• Suitable for large pours

Site-Mix:

• Slower production

• Suitable for small works

6. Manpower Requirement

RMC:

• Less on-site labor

Site-Mix:

• More labor required for mixing and handling

7. Cost Aspect

RMC:

• Higher material cost

• Lower labor and wastage

Site-Mix:

• Lower material cost

• Higher labor and wastage

8. Space Requirement

RMC:

• Minimal site space needed

Site-Mix:

• Requires space for materials, mixer, storage

9. Suitability

RMC Best For:

• High-rise buildings

• Bridges

• Mass concreting

• Quality-critical structures

Site-Mix Best For:

• Small buildings

• Repairs

• Rural or remote sites

One-Line Interview Answer (Perfect)

RMC is factory-produced concrete with high quality control and consistency, while site-mix concrete is prepared at site with comparatively lower control and variable quality.

Practical Site Tip

• Use RMC when:

  • Structural quality is critical

  • Large volume concreting is required

• Use site-mix for:

  • Small, non-critical works