Aggregate Washing Plant

Clean Aggregates for Superior Chip Seal Performance

In chip seal applications, the cleanliness of aggregate is essential for achieving strong adhesion, durability, and a smooth finish. The Vimpo Aggregate Washing Machine removes dust, clay, and fine particles to ensure optimal bonding between the bitumen emulsion and the aggregate.

Basic Working Principle of the Aggregate Washing Machine

The aggregate washing machine operates through the combined action of high-pressure water jets and vibrating screening systems. Raw aggregate is fed from the loading hopper into a drum or vibrating screen system. High-pressure nozzles remove fine dust and dirt particles from the aggregate surface.

During this process, the water flow and pressure are automatically adjusted according to the particle size and contamination level of the material. As a result, each particle reaches the highest level of cleanliness.

Why Should Clean Aggregate Be Used?

Surface dressing is an economical method used to extend the life of asphalt pavements and improve skid resistance. For the best bond with the bitumen, the aggregate surface must be clean, dry, and free of dust. Aggregates contaminated with clay, dust, or organic matter prevent proper adhesion of the bitumen layer, leading to surface stripping, early deformation, and reduced skid resistance. This is precisely where aggregate washing machines come into play.

Why Clean Aggregate Matters?

• Improved Adhesion: Clean surfaces provide better emulsion grip.
• Longer Surface Life: Dirty aggregate can cause early failure like peeling and chipping.
• Lower Emulsion Usage: Clean aggregate absorbs less emulsion, reducing costs.
• Meets Road Authority Standards: Clean aggregate is often a regulatory requirement.

Technical Specifications of the Aggregate Washing Machine

• Capacity: 50 tons/hour
• Screening: Durable polyurethane screen
• Water System: Closed-loop circulation with filtration
• Mobility: Trailer-mounted for fast site deployment
• Control: Manual or automatic control options

Advantages of the Aggregate Washing Machine

Using washed aggregate not only improves surface quality but also optimizes bitumen consumption. Clean surfaces enable the bitumen to spread more uniformly, ensuring both material savings and enhanced durability. Moreover, with an aggregate washing machine, there is no need for additional cleaning at the job site, which shortens project timelines and reduces labor costs.

Benefits for Chip Seal Projects

• Stronger bonding with bitumen
• Increased surface durability
• Reduced material waste
• Higher consistency in application
• Cost-effective operation

Impact of Proper Aggregate Washing on Road Longevity

The washing process not only improves the appearance of the aggregate but also enhances surface adhesion at the microscopic level. This increased adhesion makes the surface dressing more resistant to heavy traffic loads, temperature variations, and weather conditions. International studies have shown that pavements constructed with washed aggregates last up to 25% longer than those made with unwashed materials.