The Feed - Quarter 1, 2019 - 26

The RAP Solution
by Patrick Reaver, Inside Sales Director, Astec Mobile Screens
Producers know
that
processing
RAP comes with
countless challenges
to overcome. From
keeping the site
clean and safe to
handling
underequipped machines, operators have to work hard to
conquer these obstacles.
One of the most common hindrances on any RAP
production is dust. Not only is suppressing the dust an
issue, but keeping machines clean requires extra effort.
Asphalt dust can plug radiators, cause engines to run
poorly or overheat and obstruct other important parts,
requiring more time and effort to clean all of the affected
parts before being able to run again.
Dust suppression systems should be added to machines
to keep the dirt under
control;
providing
a
safer work environment
and cleaner machines.
In addition to dust
suppression systems, filter
kits can be retrofitted to any
KPI-JCI and Astec Mobile
Screens model. These kits
cover all access doors and
openings, helping to stop
dust from getting to the radiator and other parts of the
equipment. The filter media is easily replaceable using a
simple retention system with locking pins and clips. Our
plants are also designed with maintenance in mind, giving
operators more space for cleaning and other maintenance.
Utilizing all electric power systems can be an effective
way to remove diesel engines from the dusty environment,
making the dust much less harmful. However, producers
often like to maintain the convenience of having a diesel
motor for remote locations or to track equipment around
the site. Our new hybrid technology allows producers
to power their equipment using line power or a genset,
helping to keep diesel engines clear of dust. Gensets can
be placed over a hundred feet away from the equipment to

"One of the
most common
hindrances
on any RAP
production is
dust."

26

THE FEED

reduce the amount of dust it comes into contact with.
Another challenge producers have to overcome is
inadequate equipment that isn't built specifically for the
RAP environment. KPI-JCI and Astec Mobile Screens
impactor plants feature two, three or four bar rotor
configurations, so operators can work easily with varying
types of material, while providing more flexibility when
working with RAP. Our hydraulically-driven rotors
can vary in speed without loss of power, and also allow
producers to crush and track at the same time. Improved
feeders, with a high speed, low stroke design, create a
smoother feed rate for more consistent performance.
Producers also need to ensure that their equipment
can adequately process RAP. From undersized screens to
outdated technology, having the wrong equipment can set
operators back. The large screen on our FT4250CC plant
maximizes production compared to competitive models.
Pair the open-circuit option of this plant with a GT205
multi-frequency screening plant to increase productivity.
The new multi-frequency technology combines a
conventional, two-bearing vibrator, traditionally used on
an incline screen, with a high frequency vibrator on the
bottom deck. Along with the GT205, the multi-frequency
technology is also available on the GT145 track screen,
PTSC2520 and all other 5' wide screens from Astec Mobile
Screens.
Another piece of equipment that excels in RAP
environments is the ProSizer® crushing plant line. This
machine, with three models available, is a closed-circuit,
portable impact crushing plant that offers increased
productivity and consistency. The ProSizer® plants are
also available with hybrid power, allowing producers to
run using line power or a genset, further lending itself to
the RAP application and giving producers more flexibility.
These plants feature a power pack design and radiator
package for easy cleaning.
RAP producers face these, and many more challenges to
produce their material. Working to manage or eliminate
these issues can be difficult. However, if operators utilize
the appropriate equipment for the RAP environment, they
can help reduce maintenance, create a more consistent
and quality product and reduce operating costs.
The Feed - Quarter 1, 2019

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Feed - Quarter 1, 2019
