AP-BM Asphalt plant
AP-BM Asphalt Mixing Plant The AP-BM model is a c ontinuous, parallel-flow mobile plant , containerized for harsh climatic conditions, consisting of two trailers. 1 trailer with four feeders , a d ...
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What is a bitumen mixing plant?
A bitumen mixing plant, also known as an asphalt plant, is an industrial facility used for the production of bituminous mix. This material is obtained by mixing aggregates (such as gravel, sand, and fillers) with a hydrocarbon binder, usually bitumen. The asphalt produced is mainly used for the construction and renovation of pavements, roads, parking lots, and runways.
How does an asphalt plant work?
The process of producing asphalt includes several key steps:
- Batching and weighing the aggregates: The aggregates are taken from storage silos or hoppers, and then weighed accurately according to the desired formulation.
- Drying: They are then directed to a drying drum, where they are heated to a high temperature (around 150 to 180 °C) to eliminate any trace of moisture.
- Screening: (for batch versions): After drying, the aggregates are screened to be sorted by size.. After drying, the aggregates are screened to be sorted by size.
- Mixing: The heated aggregates are then incorporated into hot bitumen in a mixer. Depending on the type of asphalt sought, other additives such as fibers, pigments, or polymers may also be added.
- Storage or loading: The final mixture, called asphalt, is either stored in temperature-controlled silos or directly loaded onto trucks for transport to the site.
- Batch plant: Production is done through successive batches.
- Continuous plant: The mixture is made in a continuous flow, without interruption.
There are mainly two types of asphalt plants:
What is the purpose of asphalt?
The coating of aggregates with a binder, primarily bitumen, has the main objectives:
- To form a road surface layer capable of withstanding traffic loads and climatic variations.
- Strengthen the cohesion between the different aggregates.
- Ensure the impermeability of the pavement, preventing water infiltration.
- Provide a comfortable and safe driving surface, ensuring good grip, low noise levels, and high durability.