Concrete pumps are a fantastic way to improve the speed of your work, and save cost. They’re especially helpful in hard to reach areas, or large projects where bigger quantities of concrete are being laid. However, you may be wondering how far is too far? Fortunately, we’ve gone into detail about the different types of pumps and how far they can reach below.
The Different Types Of Concrete Pumps
Concrete pumps are generally divided into line pumps and boom pumps. Each has distinct mechanical design, pressure capacity and setup requirements that directly influence how far it can reach.
Line Pumps
A line pump, sometimes called a ground pump or trailer pump, delivers concrete through a series of rigid steel pipes or flexible hoses connected end-to-end. The concrete is pushed by a piston mechanism from the pump’s hopper into the pipeline.
Line pumps are the most adaptable option when the delivery path is irregular, narrow or long. Their modular design allows operators to extend the line as far as required by adding pipe sections. However, every bend, coupling and vertical rise adds resistance, reducing flow rate and effective distance.
Typical Reach
- Horizontal reach up to 150 metres, some high-pressure systems can exceed 200 metres with optimal conditions.
- Vertical reach approximately 40 to 50 metres, depending on concrete mix, pipe diameter and pump pressure.
- Pipeline diameter 100 mm to 125 mm typical for construction use.
Advantages
- Excellent for restricted access sites where a truck cannot position close to the pour.
- Modular extensions allow flexible routing through buildings or underground.
- Lower mobilisation costs and faster setup than large boom trucks.
Limitations
- Flow rate decreases with each added bend or elevation change.
- Labour required to lay and clean the pipeline.
- Higher potential for blockages on long or complex runs if mix consistency varies.
Boom Pumps
A boom pump is mounted on a truck or semi-trailer and uses a multi-section hydraulic arm to lift, extend and position the delivery hose. This design removes the need for ground-level pipelines on most sites, delivering concrete directly from the truck to the pour location.
Boom pumps are ideal for large pours and high or difficult-to-reach elevations, providing higher output rates and reduced manual handling.
Boom Lengths
Booms are measured by their maximum vertical reach, from the centre of turret to discharge point.
| Boom Length | Typical Vertical Reach | Horizontal Reach | Applications |
| 20 to 24 m | up to 22 m | approximately 18 m | Driveways, small house foundations, extensions |
| 28 to 32 m | up to 30 m | approximately 26 m | Two-storey buildings, small commercial units |
| 36 to 38 m | up to 36 m | approximately 32 m | Mid-rise and warehouse pours |
| 42 to 47 m | up to 45 m | approximately 40 m | Industrial floors, multi-unit housing |
| 50 to 60 m + | 50 to 60 m + | 45 m + | High-rise structures, bridges, infrastructure |
Each boom is divided into three to five articulating sections, allowing precise placement around obstacles such as scaffolding or roof trusses. Outriggers stabilise the vehicle during operation, so sufficient setup space must be available on site.
Advantages
- Fast setup and high pumping capacity, up to 150 cubic metres per hour.
- Can pour directly over walls or into formwork at height.
- Minimises ground hose labour and improves site safety.
Limitations
- Requires firm, level ground for outriggers.
- Fixed boom length limits flexibility beyond its designed reach.
- Larger booms need more clearance overhead and around the truck.
What To Consider About Site Planning
Choosing the correct pump depends not only on reach but also on access, pour volume and safety. Effective planning ensures equipment performs efficiently and avoids costly downtime.
Details
- Access route should allow trucks and trailers stable ground and turning space.
- Obstructions such as power lines, scaffolding and trees can restrict boom movement.
- Set-up area must provide adequate space for outriggers or pipeline routing.
- Safety zone should be maintained beneath the boom or along the line route.
- Concrete mix design affects pumping distance; low slump mixes may require additives for long runs.
By considering these elements during scheduling, site teams can ensure the right pump type and size are allocated, maximising productivity and safety.
Why Understanding Lengths Is Important
Understanding reach capacity helps project planners choose the correct pump and prepare sites accordingly. For smaller residential pours, a 20 m to 24 m boom or compact line setup may suffice. Medium and industrial jobs typically rely on 36 m to 47 m booms for coverage and output, while large commercial and high-rise structures demand specialist pumps exceeding 50 m.
With the right equipment, proper planning and experienced operators, concrete can be placed safely and efficiently in virtually any environment across South Wales.
Contact Our Professional Team Today
For reliable service and professional advice, contact Cardiff Ready Mixed Concrete to discuss your next project or arrange pump hire.
