ISO 21573-1:2014

Overview - ISO 21573-1:2014 (Concrete pumps - Terminology and commercial specifications)

ISO 21573-1:2014 defines terminology and commercial-literature specifications for concrete pumps used on building sites for concrete-mix delivery. Part of the ISO 21573 series for building construction machinery and equipment, this second edition clarifies key terms (for example piston-type and rotary-type pumps), classification of pump types and the minimum commercial data manufacturers should supply in product literature.

Key topics and requirements

The standard focuses on clear, consistent definitions and a comprehensive list of commercial specifications that support selection, comparison and procurement of concrete pumps. Major topics include:

• Terms and definitions
  • Piston-type, rotary-type, stationary-type pumps; valve systems; distributing boom; applicable aggregate size and slump.
• Classification
  • By pumping unit, mobility (truck-mounted, trailer, stationary), conveying form and drive system.
• Commercial specifications manufacturers should provide
  • Model/type, manufacturer, maximum theoretical pumping capacity, maximum theoretical pressure, cylinder diameter and stroke, stroke frequency, valve outlet diameter, hopper capacity, engine power, acceptable operating angle, and operating mass (with defined conditions).
• Concrete and pumping performance
  • Maximum aggregate size and minimum slump applicable for reliable delivery; note on volumetric efficiency (~0.8–0.9 for slump 18–21 cm) to relate theoretical to actual delivery.
• Drive, hydraulic and dimensional data
  • Drive options (vehicle engine or separate engine), hydraulic pump details (number, application, flow/pressure), overall dimensions, wheelbase and boom reach.
• Auxiliary systems and accessories
  • Conveying-pipe and chassis cleaning devices, distributing boom parameters, outriggers, attachments, remote-control panels, tools and spare parts.
• Annex A
  • Informative illustrations of typical pump designs and assemblies (piston and rotary types, valve systems, booms).

Practical applications and users

ISO 21573-1:2014 is practical for:

• Manufacturers preparing technical and commercial literature.
• Specifiers and procurement teams comparing pump models and creating tender documents.
• Site engineers and equipment managers selecting pumps that match concrete mix and site constraints.
• Maintenance and safety personnel who rely on consistent component and system descriptions.
• Regulators and testing bodies using Part 1 as a baseline alongside ISO 21573-2 (technical parameter examination).

Related standards

• ISO 21573-2 - Procedure for examination of technical parameters (companion document).
• ISO 11375 - General building construction machinery terms and definitions (normative reference used by this standard).

Keywords: ISO 21573-1:2014, concrete pumps, terminology, commercial specifications, piston-type, rotary-type, distributing boom, hydraulic system, maximum theoretical pumping capacity.