A dryer drum replacement has added many years of life to an Ammann asphalt-mixing plant – and improved efficiency, too.

Breedon Group, the largest independent construction materials firm in the United Kingdom, recently replaced the dryer on an Ammann ABP Universal Asphalt-Mixing Plant, which began operation in 2004.

The Longwater plant, located near Norwich, England, was well maintained and had much more operating potential. Yet the dryer had surpassed its life expectancy. It was time for a replacement.

“We allowed for five days,” said Richard Coles, Parts Sales Manager at Ammann UK Ltd. “On the first day, the steam evacuation pipework – from mixer and screen to raw gas ducting – was removed by crane, as was the suction hood. The slinger conveyor was disconnected and moved out of the dryer. “

The old dryer then was removed by crane. This was completed by the second day.

“On the third day, the new drum was positioned, and the disconnected items were reinstalled on the plant,” Richard said. Mechanical installation was finished the next day. On the fifth day, tracking was completed, marking the end of the project.

Mark Wood, Area Operations Manager for Breedon Group, was very satisfied with the process.

“When it was decided that the dryer drum on our Longwater asphalt plant was due for renewal, we went out for quotes for the replacement,” he said. “The decision to use Ammann as the preferred supplier was made because of the known quality of Ammann parts.”

There was good communication from Ammann as to lead times and delivery dates, which were all on time and as quoted, Mark said.

“The contractors (Dixon Engineering Ltd.) that Ammann used to install the drum were exemplary in providing all relevant safe systems of work and risk assessments,” Mark said. “We didn’t find any fault with their work during the entire operation. The job was completed on schedule and with no incidents.”

Richard was pleased – but not surprised – the project went smoothly. He counts on Dixon Engineering to handle such work. The experienced firm based in Derbyshire is committed to quality and timeliness.

“Over a period of time, Dixon Engineering has formed a strong business relationship with Ammann UK – working together to deliver time critical projects within the asphalt industry,” said Marcus Jinks, Director of Dixon Engineering. “These projects range from like-for-like replacements, retrofits and adaptations requiring various skill sets for heavy plants and equipment.”

The replacement drum on Breedon Group’s asphalt plant has a skin thickness of 15 mm and should last at least another 15 years, Richard said. “Further benefits include improved overall plant efficiency due to heat retention,” he concluded.