In this series of articles, we have looked at different types of cooling methods for large-pour concrete projects. Concrete cooling is vital to the strength and durability of the concrete. For large projects, you are going to need a comprehensive cooling system, which will be determined by the scope of your project and its application. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC understands that you want to get the most out of your project while maintaining your schedule and budget. This article will provide you with a closer look at aggregate cooling by water.
How Aggregate Cooling by Water Works
With larger projects, it is necessary to cool the concrete aggregate on a conveyor belt to get it to the required temperature much more quickly. Basically, aggregate cooling by water is simply putting cool water on the aggregate stockpile. It is a very quick process, depending on the size of the aggregate. If natural water isn’t cold enough to bring the temperature of the aggregate sufficiently low enough, a chilling system can be included.
Although air can do this process, cold water is much quicker and more effective. Installing this system does require specialty equipment, such as a well-functioning dewatering system and flooded cooling belt. In addition, a settling tank is mandatory to the process. However, the investment in this equipment is often minimal compared to other types of cooling processes.
Benefits of Aggregate Cooling by Water
Aggregate cooling by water helps keep your time-frame on schedule. Because it is so reliable, you know that your concrete pouring project will be completed and set when it needs to be. This means that you can keep the subcontractors and other people working on the project on task.
Proper cooling by water is very effective and stable. Your system won’t develop problems down the road when you use aggregate cooling by water. It is less likely to deteriorate over time, which makes the whole process more reliable. Wetting the concrete cools it, so that it doesn’t need as much water to get the required slump. This means less shrinkage as it dries.
Although it does take a great deal of water, the system is actually very small compared to other methods of cooling, which means that you aren’t having to use valuable space on the site to store equipment for your concrete pouring. When you work with an experienced company that has multiple engineers and managers, you get the benefit of their knowledge to keep your system well-designed.
Aggregate cooling by water is cost-effective and budget friendly. This in turns allows you to pass these savings on to the client, which means that they can invest more into the project where it really needs it. You can also work with natural resources, which means if you have available water for cooling, it can be integrated into the system to reduce your overall costs.
Cons of the Aggregate Cooling by Water
Aggregate cooling by water is not appropriate for every site. Although it does tend to be a cost-effective method, some sites may not have sufficient resources. Depending on the project requirements aggregate cooling by water may also not be sufficient to cool the concrete to the right temperature. This method is also not cost-effective for smaller batches. It’s important to look at your particular project and the facilities and resources that you have available to determine if aggregate cooling by water is appropriate for your project.
Find the Right Cooling Method for Your Project at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC
SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC offers precise applications and methods for your project, designed to your specifications, including environmental concerns when applicable to keep the project eco-friendly. We have an extensive background in industrial cooling and freezing that allows us to come up with innovative solutions for your project. Please contact us so that we can come up with the best concrete cooling system for your company, whether that system incorporates aggregate cooling by water or a different process.