In the annual aggregate-themed issue of AsphaltPro Magazine, Eagle Crusher’s Dan Friedman shared tips and ideas in our Expand Your Production series for producers who are ready to add recycle to their operations. Specifically, he discussed the benefits of adding a recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) crushing and screening system, some types and features of different plants and screens, how to plan for a quick return on investment, and the all-important location based on the type of system you choose.
He stated: “A primary consideration and a good starting point is the type of crusher that will be most beneficial to how your facility operates.”
For example, if you have one stationary hot-mix asphalt (HMA) plant in an industrial zone, you may wish to look for a stationary RAP crusher that can be situated on your plant’s existing footprint. If you have more than one stationary HMA plant, you may want a portable RAP crusher that you can move from site to site as needed. And so on.
Step Up Hot-Mix Production with Your Facility’s Own Crushing Plant
Also consider how the permitting process will influence your crusher choice and location. Start that sooner, rather than later. Depending on your county and state, you may be able to piggyback on your asphalt plant’s permit, but don’t count on that. Do your homework early and plan accordingly.
Once you know which crusher and screening system is right for you, plan where it will “sit” for best use of conveyors, stacking and stockpiling. How often will you process RAP? The number of trucks or wheel loaders you can devote to the crushing and screening operation will help you determine the conveyor equipment and radial stackers you want to invest in as well.
What kind of weather conditions do you most often see in your neck of the woods? Will you require solid structures to cover your RAP piles, or will you be using up the material as quickly as you fractionate and screen it?
Don’t let all these considerations overwhelm you during these early planning stages. Your equipment manufacturer/distributor will assist. If there’s something you don’t think of now, they can remind you of it. And as the planning goes forward, you can adjust the footprint, add skirting, order a fabric structure to protect stockpiles from the elements, and so on, as needed. Check out Friedman’s full article.