A Closer Look at Concrete Cooling Systems: Sand Cooling
Concrete cooling systems are extremely important for companies and businesses that work with concrete, especially large-pour projects. During the hydration process, a chemical reaction occurs that is highly exothermic. That means that it releases heat. The temperature can exceed 200°F. When concrete is poured at such a high temperature this can cause major problems. The concrete tends to be less durable, more prone to cracking. Such concrete is also weaker and non-uniform. That’s why it is extremely important to use a concrete cooling system to offset these temperature rises.
Concrete cooling systems are not all the same and sometimes the temperature requirements may vary depending on the project. When the temperature needs to be extremely low, you can’t use a run of the mill cooling system. Instead a more extreme option such as a sand cooling system may be used. This article will help you understand what sand cooling is and when this type of concrete cooling system is necessary.
About Sand Cooling Systems
Sand cooling is one of the least common forms of concrete cooling systems. This is in part because it is often unnecessary, especially for typical concrete projects, and it is also a more expensive option than many other concrete cooling systems. It requires a highly customized, sophisticated set-up. The sand is usually cooled in either a rotary cooling drum or sand silos.
It is also important to note that even in systems that do utilize sand cooling, it is still used with other methods of cooling. Many times ice or cold water is used to help cool down the sand. The sand helps keep the concrete thoroughly cooled during the entire process.
When Sand Cooling Systems Are Used
A sand cooling system is used when chilled water, ice, or aggregate cooling just won’t be enough. Since sand cooling is used in conjunction with other cooling methods, it is important to note how these methods are completed and when sand cooling comes in.
- Water Cooling – Water chilling plants can lower water temperatures from 113°F to 32°F. There are normally three or four stages in this cooling process.
- Ice Cooling – Flake ice or plate ice can be used in ice cooling systems. Plate ice is better for cooling larger areas. Flake ice tends to be a more efficient cooling agent because it has a higher surface area per ton of ice.
- Aggregate Cooling – Aggregate cooling can be done with air or water. Air is better for sites with limited space. A water system needs a wet belt and dewatering systems, but air can use existing silos./li>
When these cooling systems can’t keep the temperature lower enough or provide a thorough enough cooling, sand cooling systems may be necessary.
SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC Delivers Quality Sand Cooling Systems
Sand cooling systems are highly customized, and it can be expensive. However, at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC we take pride in providing the best systems and options at the best price possible. If sand cooling is going to be your best option, SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC will be able to let you know and help you through the process. Contact us to discuss the particulars of your business and your concerns and we will be able to work out a solution that fits your requirements.
