It’s hardly controversial to suggest every asphalt plant keep its controls system(s) up to date. With the growing number of sensitive parameters asphalt producers track and report to make environmental product declarations (EPDs) possible, it makes sense that fine-tuned controls are on board. Every part per million matters and you’re likely being asked to account for them. All of them.
Beyond the mind-numbing over-greening we’ve been subjected to as of late, there are basic safety and operational controls to investigate at the plant and in the field. In this month’s issue, we see how implementing innovations as well as intelligent controls assisted Central Specialties Inc. for a national parks project (see page 14). Detroit Stoker Burner gives us some back-to-basics for burner sizing and controls at the plant (see page 38). And the team at Stansteel offered five tips to see a quick ROI when installing or updating controls at the plant (see page 36).
Let’s focus on the plant for a minute. Consider the wisdom of monitoring tank levels and temperatures. The last thing you want to have happen to your liquid asphalt cement (AC) heating element is coking. With a robust controls system, you set an alarm on your tank that lets you know when you’re approaching a low-level situation before it becomes a problem. The alarm sounds and shows you where the problem is occurring.
Some systems tell you how to solve it.
With the plant-of-the-future we’re being promised, some system someday will go ahead and resolve the issue without a human in the control house. While that concept raises all the red flags for safety in my mind, there are people excited about it as an answer to workforce shortages.
Hopefully no truck drivers will be relying on the machines at that point. But let’s talk about the drivers and loadout systems for a minute.
Your controls have probably focused on improving loadout and ticketing for years now. Additional safety features have recently offered more ways to ensure drivers position different types and sizes of haul trucks perfectly beneath the appropriate silo for loadout in the most advantageous method to prevent material segregation and windshield shots.
Once again, it’s not earth-shattering for me to suggest these systems as upgrades to your operation. Implementing and integrating updated controls at the asphalt plant gives you your best opportunity for an efficient, safe and successful operation. With winter down season right around the corner, now may be the right time to investigate upgrades and options.
Stay Safe,
Sandy Lender