A window into controlling bitumen manufacture

A major UK bitumen manufacturer is using the Fullbrook Systems TT100 process viscometer to monitor their bitumen mixing process, significantly improving their level of process control

A major UK bitumen manufacturer is using the TT100 process viscometer to monitor their bitumen mixing process.

Introduction of the TT100 has significantly improved the level of control over the process.

Operating inline at 175C the TT100 viscometer is sensitive to small changes in viscosity and quickly detects any additions to the process stream.

Before the instrument was installed, operators had to carry 175C samples to the laboratory for testing.

This procedure was deemed to be potentially dangerous and only provided periodic information about the process.

Cycle times were often extended just to make sure that the batch was properly mixed.

The TT100 viscometer quickly determines that the product is homogenous, and avoids unnecessary delays.

The networked data logging system that was supplied with the TT100 viscometer records the viscosity data and temperature for each batch of bitumen that is produced.

The "real time" on screen display allows the operator to follow every stage of the process and determine when to make additions or complete the batch.

This "window" into the process has led to speeding up of batch times and more consistent product being produced.

The system also records each batch so that historical data is archived automatically for future reference.

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