4t asphalt hotbox

Posted on 23rd May 2024  by Tom Green

Read time: 2 minutes

 

THE BRIEF

 

The client sought the expertise of Twenty20 Engineering to aid in developing a state-of-the-art 4T asphalt hotbox for inclusion in their all-encompassing truck-mounted solution dedicated to pothole road repairs. They needed assistance with engineering design, CAD modelling, and a fabrication pack tailored to this project.

 

The hotbox had to meet several specifications to achieve several key points: Firstly, it needed to be fully insulated and tightly sealed when the doors and chute were closed. For this hotbox to function optimally, the bio-burner's efficiency was essential to ensure the asphalt reaches and maintains a consistent temperature of around 200 degrees Celsius. Twenty20 Engineering strategically used lightweight aluminium 6063-T6 extrusions and AW 5082 sheets wherever possible. This approach ensured the hotbox met performance standards while minimising its overall weight.

 

All components in direct contact with asphalt will be crafted from Hardox 400 steel, seamlessly integrating with the truck chassis and superstructure.

 

CHALLENGE

 

The project faced the challenge of balancing simplicity with the primary purpose of maintaining the asphalt temperature at 200 degrees. To address this, we optimised part designs to be universal or dual-purpose, seeking to streamline manufacturing and reduce costs.

 

Another challenge arose in specifying hydraulic rams for chute and door movement. To overcome this, Twenty20 Engineering designed a "flexible" CAD model, enabling accurate placement of the rams. This measure ensured that moving components could avoid collisions with existing structures and minimised the risk of hydraulic lockout caused by excessive rotation.

 

RESULT

 

Twenty20 Engineering seamlessly integrated into the client's design team for this project, offering valuable expertise in engineering design, 3D CAD modelling, fabrication schedules, and drawings.

 

The client has the flexibility to explore other design and research & development projects simultaneously, knowing that the current project is steadily progressing towards its final stages.