How to Choose Between a Drum Mix & Asphalt Batch Mix Plant?

15 Jun How to Choose Between a Drum Mix & Asphalt Batch Mix Plant?

Ask any Road construction equipment supplier which is better- A Drum mix plant or an Asphalt Batch mix plant. They will give a list of benefits and a comparison between the two-equipment structure. As a road contractor, you need to understand which type of batch plant suits your project more and help you make a decision.

Difference between a Drum mix plant and an Asphalt Mix plant

A drum mix plant differs from an Asphalt mix plant in more ways than one: structure, size, mode of operation, finished product, and price. Hence, a buyer needs to consider the following factors before installing a hot mix plant. The batch mix plant produces the finished mixtures in a set of batches within a short duration, and the drum mix plant can ensure continuous production of the finished mixture without any disruption.

If the road construction is where an Asphalt mix plant cannot be put up, it is better to go for the drum mix plant where continuous asphalt supply can be ensured. Asphalt mix plants give finished mix in batches and at short intervals.

When there is a requirement for the accurate weight of all components and screen of materials, then the asphalt batch mix plant should be preferred. It is crucial in large project sizes where grade needs to be high in quality, and oil stone ratio can be controlled during operations.

The batch plant maintains a specific weighing structure. Hence, it can help monitor the real-time oil stone ratio and even alter the ratio at any point in time. On the other hand, there is no such precise weighing system in the drum mixing plants, and thus oil stone ration will not be recorded.

Drum mix plants are convenient for transportation because of their compact structure and where the project is of a smaller size. Here, quality protection from environmental contamination is not mandatory. If the grade requirement is low, the drum mix plant is suitable. As far as environmental protection and performance are considered, the asphalt batch mix plant is found to be a superior choice to the asphalt drum mix plant.

The batch mix plants find widespread applications as they can add various mixtures like foams, fibers, and even rubber particles. Moreover, the batch plants can handle large to medium-sized projects. Hence, these plants are used for paving highways and roads. The finished mixture is suitable and of great quality for different pavement projects.

Also, budget is a consideration when you have to decide on any hot mix plant. A drum mix plant is more of a cost-effective choice. They are suitable for use in rural areas where more application is needed for low-grade roads.

Conclusion

The asphalt batch mix plant has a high initial investment cost and is suitable for large-scale high-grade road projects. This plant cannot be used in contracted areas as its operations will get hindered. The plant is complex and needs high maintenance costs and expert handling.