Mecmetal

13.10.2025

What is the difference between hydraulic block machine and electric block machine?

The difference between a hydraulic block machine and an electric block machine mainly comes down to how the compaction and movement mechanisms are powered — and this affects performance, maintenance, energy efficiency, and product consistency.

Here’s a clear breakdown:


⚙️ 1. Power Source and Compaction System

  • Hydraulic Block Machine

    • Uses hydraulic pressure to compact the concrete in the mold.

    • A hydraulic pump generates pressure, which drives cylinders to press the mold.

    • Typically provides high compaction force, which is good for dense and strong blocks.

    • The pressure build-up takes a little time, so the cycle can be slower.

  • Electric Block Machine

    • Uses electric motors and mechanical systems (e.g., eccentric vibration or servo motors) to produce compaction force.

    • The pressing system is typically electromechanical — faster response and more precise control.

    • Cycle times are often shorter, allowing more blocks to be produced per hour.


⚡ 2. Production Speed and Efficiency

  • Hydraulic:

    • Usually slower cycles (due to pressure build-up and release).

    • Suitable for smaller or medium-scale production.

    • Higher energy use per cycle because hydraulic systems are less efficient.

  • Electric:

    • Fast and precise cycles.

    • Better suited for high-speed, automated production lines.

    • Lower energy consumption due to direct drive and fewer energy losses.


🧰 3. Maintenance and Operating Costs

  • Hydraulic:

    • Requires regular maintenance of oil levels, filters, pumps, and seals.

    • Hydraulic leaks can cause downtime and messy work environments.

    • More components that wear over time.

  • Electric:

    • Fewer moving parts and no hydraulic oil.

    • Maintenance is generally lower and cleaner.

    • Motors and gear systems are long-lasting and easier to service.


🧱 4. Block Quality and Precision

  • Hydraulic:

    • Good compaction quality, but sometimes less consistent due to pressure fluctuations and temperature effects on hydraulic oil.

    • Ideal for standard concrete blocks, pavers, and bricks.

  • Electric:

    • Very precise and repeatable compaction force.

    • Excellent dimensional accuracy and uniform strength.

    • Well-suited for customers demanding high-quality, consistent blocks.


🌱 5. Environmental and Operational Impact

  • Hydraulic:

    • Noisy operation.

    • Risk of oil leaks.

    • More heat generation.

  • Electric:

    • Quieter, cleaner, and more energy-efficient.

    • Easier integration into modern, automated, or robotic production lines.


Summary:

  • Hydraulic machines are robust and reliable for average production needs.

  • Electric machines offer speed, precision, energy savings, and lower maintenance — ideal for modern high-output plants.

For example, the MEC Evolution 20 by Mecmetal Oy is a fully electromechanical block machine, which removes the need for hydraulics entirely — resulting in fast cycles, lower operational costs, and very consistent block quality.