Asphalt temperature measurement: how to ensure quality in production
Asphalt temperature has a decisive impact on the material’s quality and durability. Non-contact infrared temperature measurement allows the temperature to be monitored throughout production, so material outside the specified limits is detected before it leaves the asphalt plant.
Incorrect temperatures affect asphalt quality
The temperature must be correct when asphalt is produced and laid. If the material is too hot or too cold, it can affect the hardening process and result in lower quality and a shorter service life.
Asphalt plants are also subject to quality control requirements. Continuous temperature measurement makes it possible to document that the material has been produced within the correct specifications.
By monitoring the temperature throughout production, particularly at the mixer and chute, material that does not meet the requirements can be identified and diverted. This prevents asphalt of insufficient quality from being transported to the work site.
Infrared measurement without contact with the asphalt
The high temperatures in asphalt production place special demands on measuring equipment. Infrared temperature measurement makes it possible to record the temperature quickly and safely without physical contact with the material.
The RT8A from AMETEK Land is a non-contact infrared thermometer developed for the asphalt paving and roadstone industry. The instrument measures the material’s temperature throughout the production process and allows the operator to respond quickly to deviations.
Unlike traditional contact sensors, the RT8A does not come into contact with the asphalt. The thermometer is therefore not exposed to the same wear and damage that can lead to frequent repairs or replacement of the measuring equipment.
Position and integrate the measurement correctly
To obtain reliable temperature data, the instrument must be positioned so that it measures the relevant material at the right point in the process. Measurements can be taken at locations such as the mixer and chute, where deviations can be detected before the material leaves production.
The RT8A has an industry-standard linear 4-20 mA output signal. This allows the thermometer to be connected to various indicators, controllers and recorders, and the temperature measurement to be integrated into the existing process control system.
- Incorporate temperature data into your company’s quality assurance
- Identify the key measurement points in production
- Monitor the temperature at locations such as the mixer and chute
- Define the permissible temperature limits for the material
- Integrate the measurement with existing indicators or controllers
- Ensure a clear line of sight between the thermometer and the material
- Use measurement data to detect and divert material outside the specifications
- Check regularly that the instrument is measuring the relevant area
Better process control and less production waste
Fast and accurate temperature measurements provide a better basis for controlling production. When temperature deviations are detected early, the process can be adjusted and material that does not meet the requirements can be removed.
This can reduce production waste, improve energy efficiency and ensure that the finished material meets the desired quality standards. Fast measurement can also support a higher production rate, as the operator receives temperature data without having to stop the process.
The RT8A builds on AMETEK Land’s many years of experience in temperature measurement for asphalt paving and roadstone producers and comes with a 12-month warranty.
Temperature measurement
Do you need reliable temperature measurement in asphalt?
Get help choosing and positioning an infrared thermometer in your production process.
Rasmus Riis Mortensen
Sales Manager, External Sales
Martin Hammer Sillassen
Market Manager