Rethinking Bitumen Storage

Advanced Controls, Modular Design and Remote Monitoring Deliver New Value

Asphalt producers and spray sealing contractors increasingly recognize that bitumen storage is essential to their bottom line. The right storage system preserves binder properties, reduces energy consumption, enables faster starts to the shift and helps produce more consistent asphalt mix.

Many in the industry consider Ammann’s bitumen storage solutions the best. The systems feature advanced controls, remote monitoring capabilities and energy-efficient designs.

Offering firsthand insight into the Ammann bitumen storage system for Spray Seal Operations was Angus Walker, the director of ANA Asphalts, with headquarters in Beresfield, New South Wales, Australia. ANA recently acquired an Ammann bitumen tank storage system, and Walker answered questions while the installation was fresh on his mind.

SET UP

Does the pre-wiring save a significant amount of time?

Absolutely. Because the system arrives pre-wired, the amount of electrical work required on-site is minimal. That significantly reduces installation time, lowers costs and removes many of the risks and delays that can come with coordinating multiple contractors during commissioning.

How difficult was it to position the tanks?

It was relatively straightforward. Because these tanks for the Spray Seal Operation are containerised and designed for transport, the tanks can be moved into place using standard lifting equipment. Once on site, it was simply a matter of locating them on the prepared area and making the final connections.

What else is important about the setup?

One of the biggest advantages is how quickly the system can be made operational. The combination of containerised tanks, pre-wiring and plug-and-play components means the entire installation process is much more efficient than a traditional fixed terminal.

What bitumen types and grades do you store in the tanks?

We primarily store C170 and C320 bitumen, depending on project requirements. The flexibility of the system allows us to manage different grades while maintaining product quality and temperature control.

Is the system’s ability to circulate the tank and have tank-to-tank transfer functions important?

Those functions are extremely valuable. Circulation helps promote product consistency and temperature throughout the tank, while the tank-to-tank transfer capability gives us flexibility in managing inventory and balancing stock levels.

How did operators respond to the new system?

Operators find the system intuitive, reliable and easy to manage. Only basic familiarisation was required, and Ammann has provided strong technical support whenever needed.

as1 CONTROL SYSTEM

Compared to traditional control systems, do you feel the as1 offers a safer operational environment for your site and staff?

Definitely. The as1 provides continuous monitoring of critical operating parameters and tank conditions. Having alarms, automated controls, and real-time information reduces the risk of operator error and helps ensure the system runs safely at all times.

Do you use the EcoView module to monitor heating costs?

Yes. EcoView gives us a much clearer understanding of energy consumption and heating performance. That helps us identify opportunities to reduce operating costs while maintaining the temperatures required for product quality.

Is the Systems Messaging Module (SMM) important?

The SMM module is valuable because it provides detailed monitoring and reporting of system performance. Having that information readily available helps with maintenance planning, operational efficiency and overall asset management.

What do you monitor with the Plant Information Point (PIP) module?

The PIP module allows us to observe key process information throughout the system, including temperatures, pressures and product movement.

Was there an instance where any of the modules saved the day?

There have been occasions where remote surveillance identified abnormal operating conditions before they became major issues. Being able to investigate and address those situations early prevented downtime and unnecessary site visits.

Do the modules play an important role in sustainability?

Yes. Better oversight leads to better control. The modules optimise heating cycles, lessen energy waste and minimise unnecessary transport.

Is the ability to monitor remotely a significant benefit?

It's a major benefit. We can check tank status, temperatures, alarms and operating conditions from virtually anywhere.

ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS

Does the bitumen storage system meet your sustainability goals?

IECEx and Australian standards are stringent and important for safety and environmental protection. The Ammann system has been designed to support compliance and provides confidence that operations are being conducted to the required standards.

Ammann’s investment in thermal efficiency has delivered excellent performance. The tanks maintain temperature efficiently, reducing energy consumption and helping control heating costs.

Would the system be a good retrofit?

The modular, containerised design makes the system well suited to retrofit applications for both fixed and mobile asphalt plants. Ammann did a great job in the concept design to allow the system to be used for safe Spray Seal Storage in remote areas, but also, they considered it like bolt on kit, to retrofit to any other asphalt plant, fixed or mobile, without the heartache of integrating tanks into an existing control plant control system. This is the real advantage having the onboard Ammann as1 integrated into the system.

Would you recommend the system?

We would recommend the system due to its flexibility, reliability, ease of installation and operational efficiency. We would certainly consider additional systems for future regional operations. What surprises most people is how quickly the system can be deployed and how little supporting infrastructure is required compared to a traditional storage installation.