Florida DOT Concrete Batchman/Operator Practice Exam

Cement bins must have what to aid the flow of cement?

1. A pneumatic system

2. A vibratory system

3. A hydraulic lift

4. An automatic feeder

The correct answer is: A vibratory system

The presence of a vibratory system in cement bins is essential for the effective flow of cement. Cement, being a fine powder, often has a tendency to clump together or stick to the walls of the bin due to moisture or static electricity. A vibratory system provides consistent vibrations that help to break apart these clumps and minimize friction between the cement and the bin walls. This ensures a steady and controlled flow of cement when it is needed for mixing, facilitating a smooth operation in the batching process. In this context, a pneumatic system, while useful for transporting cement, does not directly assist the flow within the bins. A hydraulic lift primarily serves the purpose of elevating materials rather than enhancing their flow, and an automatic feeder is more about controlling the rate at which cement is dispensed rather than ensuring its flow within the storage system. Thus, the vibratory system specifically addresses the needs of cement flow effectively.