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• Refurbished drying drum proves efficiency for Tarmac!

1st June 2010 - BG Europa (UK) Ltd (BGE) has recently refurbished a drying drum for Tarmac Limited at its Bayston Hill site to enhance operating efficiency.

Prior to commencement it was jointly decided by BGE and Tarmac that the safest method of works was to remove the drum for subsequent refurbishment within the workshop. This decision removed any potential hazards associated with extended working within the confined space of the drum in situ.

Over the Christmas period the drum was removed and transported to the BGE workshop in Ashbourne, Derbyshire for the replacement of the entire flight pattern.

BGE subsequently installed a modern flight design which incorporated insulation flights in the dryer combustion zone. These flights are extremely efficient as they lift the material and hold it around the periphery of the drum, ensuring maximum exposure to the radiant heat from the flame.

The remaining flights are designed to provide an even veil across the drum in various densities depending on location. The veil exposes the aggregate to the combustion gases from the burner to initially dry, and then heat the aggregate to the required temperature for asphalt production. It is important that the aggregate veil is even across the drum as if the veil is holed the combustion gases will take the path of least resistance down the drum, reducing drying efficiency.

The existing dryer was experiencing high levels of spillage from around the burner airplate causing operational difficulties. The drum manufacturer's design around this area was flawed; however a simple modification by BGE to the drum end plate has corrected the problem.

The dryer was replaced in the New Year in time for production requirements.