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Trend Analysis Chart 1

This charts represent a 10 yard load, included 3 aggregates totalling 33,800 lbs., augered slag and gravity fed cement at 4500 lbs. total, and 148 gallons of water. Although Hydromix® can control admixtures, they are not included in this trend chart.

All materials for a batch are prescribed and accumulated by the automation system. Batch water is counted at the beginning of the loading process and held back until the cement is discharged and blended into slurry. When the batch begins, the Hydromix® system takes control of cement and water flow, metering both to achieve a consistant slurry. Note that the aggregate begins to load into the mixer truck first. When it reaches the head of its belt, we open the cement gate, start our dedicated water pump and begin making slurry. The aggregate flow must be sufficient to carry the slurry through the truck's charging hopper into the barrel, so we ensure the slurry finishes before the aggregates. Each batch processes the powders leaving the final gallons to rinse the blending chamber.

The timeline for this batch shows that there are places where time can be recovered to speed up the batching process. A total of 15 - 20 seconds accrues where the aggregate hopper is stablizing between aggregates. Perhaps this time can be shortened by dampening the hopper itself. Note the 43 second pause after pulling the batch before the operator started to load the truck. Also, the loading time for slag could be reduced by increasing the auger's capacity. If loading time only is considered, this was a 110 second load, or 11 seconds per yard. Compare another load without slag and a shorter pause between loading and discharge.