The sources who took the time to share their expertise for this article provided their top tips for pre-startup to the new construction season. Here is a compilation of their top-of-mind, most vital elements for you to consider prior to startup. Notice that many focus on the all-important burner.
- If you’re in a cold region where it snows during the winter, consider covering all the motors (allowing ventilation) and arrange for the control house to remain warm throughout the season.
- Strictly follow the OEM’s maintenance manual.
- Inspect the plant, anticipating wear.
- Inspect the baghouse for buildup, mudding on walls, grates, etc.
- Inspect ductwork between the dryer and baghouse for dust buildup and any premature wear that has begun.
- Clean the recycle scoops and the drum mixing area.
- Check the silos and remove any buildup you see on the cones or loadout gates.
- Perform a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®) test on the burner and fuel train.
- Tune the burner.
- Perform burner maintenance with special attention to cleaning dust and debris off impellers, dampers, pressure switches and lines, pilot valves, ignitors, and scanners.
- Test burner safeties.
- Light the burner and use an analyzer during this process to ensure fuel efficiency.
- Adjust the burner combustion at the beginning of the season, reducing emissions, and saving fuel/gas.
- Run a rotational test on veiling in the drum (sending a plug of material through the drying section during testing).
- Heat the tank farm and circulate AC throughout the system.
- Clean and organize the plant site.
- Clean equipment, which will allow you to see any leaks long before a seal or bearing completely fails.
- Complete a dry run before starting up.
- Visit TheAsphaltPro.com Digital Downloads page to request your free copy of Stansteel Hotmix Parts & Service’s Asphalt Plant Inspection Checklist or AsphaltPro’s Plant Maintenance Checklist white papers.
- Stop by TheAsphaltPro social media platforms to share your pre-checklist tips with your colleagues.
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