REDUCTION OF ENERGY CONSUMPTIONS IN THE PRODUCTION OF LARGE-GRAINED HOT ASPHALT BY IMPROVING THE FEATURES OF THE DRYING DRUMS (FLIGHTS)

Abstract

This article examines the placement and structural function of drying drum blades (flights) in the production of coarse-grained hot asphalt, as well as approaches to reducing energy consumption through design improvement. In asphalt mixture production, the drying drum is a key piece of equipment whose efficiency mainly depends on the movement of material inside the drum and the process of heat exchange. The shape, arrangement, and surface area of the blades significantly affect how stone materials are lifted, dispersed, and interact with the gas flow inside the drum. In this study, both scientific and practical calculations were performed to reduce the heating and drying time of the material, enhance heat utilization efficiency, and decrease fuel and energy consumption by optimizing the blade area. The results obtained are valuable for implementing energy-saving technologies in asphalt production plants.