Concrete Pour Sequencing Calculator
Divide a slab into strips and get the volume, truck count and duration for each pour.
Inputs
Result
Formula
| Total volume | V = length × width × thickness |
| Strips | n = ceil(width ÷ strip width) |
| Volume per strip | V_strip = V ÷ n |
| Trucks per strip | N = ceil(V_strip ÷ truck capacity) |
| Duration per strip | t = V_strip ÷ rate × 60 |
A 20 m × 12 m × 0.12 m slab poured in 3 m strips with 9 m³ trucks at 30 m³/h: 28.80 m³ total, 4 strips of 7.20 m³ each — one truck and about 14 minutes per strip, 0.96 hours in total.
FAQ
Why split a pour at all?
Because supply runs out before the area does. If the placed area is larger than the trucks and pump can keep up with, the first concrete sets before the rest arrives and you get a cold joint with reduced strength and watertightness. Strip width should be derived from the volume that can be placed continuously.
What is the difference between a cold joint and a construction joint?
A construction joint is planned, placed where stresses are low, and prepared by scabbling, cleaning and wetting before the next pour. A cold joint forms unintentionally when supply stops; its position is arbitrary — often where stresses are highest — and it counts as a defect needing remedial design.
What truck capacity should I enter?
Common drum sizes are 6, 9 and 12 m³. Actual loads run 0.5-1 m³ below nominal and the last truck is rarely full, so rounding up on nominal capacity usually suffices. For large pours with long hauls, compute on 90% of nominal to avoid running dry mid-strip.
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Results are estimating aids only and are not a design basis. Construction and final accounts must follow the drawings, the applicable standards and an approved method statement. Anything affecting structural safety, shoring or falsework must be checked by a suitably qualified engineer.