Concrete pumps are mainly classified into two types based on their drive mechanism: piston pumps and extrusion pumps. Piston pumps are mostly hydraulically driven, with discharge pressures reaching 5 MPa (50 kg/cm²), horizontal conveying distances of 200–500 m, vertical conveying distances of 50–100 m, and a discharge capacity of 30–60 m³/h. Extrusion pumps have a simpler structure, with horizontal conveying distances typically around 200 m, vertical distances around 50 m, and a discharge capacity typically around 5–30 m³/h.
Automated conveying control technology based on pressure sensors and central control devices improves the automation and intelligence of the pumping process by setting pressure thresholds to control the start and stop of the concrete pump. High-pressure pumping technology, dual-power confluence technology, and ultra-high-pressure water washing technology aim to improve pumping height, distance, and efficiency. Dual-power confluence technology and ultra-high-pressure water washing technology have been applied to related equipment. An ultra-high-pressure trailer pump has pumped concrete to a height of 621 meters above the ground, achieving a record for the highest height achieved by a single pump in vertical concrete delivery. In September 2002, a concrete pump set a record in Hong Kong by vertically pumping C60 concrete 406 meters high with a single unit.
Boom technology is developing towards longer, lighter, and more vibration-controlled booms. Carbon fiber composite boom pump trucks and their key technologies have been developed, driving the development of carbon fiber boom concrete pump trucks. Active boom vibration reduction technology has achieved boom end vibration control within 200 mm under all working conditions. Industry technological development focuses on lightweighting, high-strength steel manufacturing technology, boom vibration control, and structural reliability.
Hybrid power, electrification, and hydrogen fuel cell technologies are being applied to concrete pumps (trucks). Hybrid power and hydrogen fuel cell technologies have become breakthroughs in the industry's energy revolution. Hydrogen fuel cell pump trucks have entered the pilot stage.
