In a continuous factory, the production cycle is not interrupted because the production rhythm is not divided into batches. The mixing of the material takes place inside the elongated drying drum as it dries and mixes the material at the same time.
The system is greatly simplified as there are no mixing towers or elevators, reducing maintenance costs.
However, since there are no screens, precise control must be exercised at the beginning of the production cycle, before the aggregate is fed into the dryer and subsequently discharged from the dryer as bitumen. The following are the characteristics of the continuous mixing plant:
1) As the name suggests, once the continuous mixing plant is started, it will continuously produce an asphalt mixture. Aggregate drying, heating, and mixing are carried out in drums. Compared with batch equipment, continuous asphalt equipment has a simple structure because there is no mixing tower and lifting system, therefore, it requires less land and fewer maintenance costs.
2) However, due to the lack of precise screening, it is necessary to precisely control the aggregate feeding in the early stage of production.
3) Generally, the production capacity of continuous asphalt plants varies between 20t/h and 100t/h.
4) Compared with the batch type (equal capacity), the initial investment of continuous-type asphalt equipment is less.