A cutting-edge 120 tonne per hour Kayasand plant will be completed in NSW by the end of next year.
In what has been called a “major step towards sustainable construction and smarter resource usage” Heidelberg Materials says it has officially signed a contract for its new facility at Bass Point Quarry south of Wollongong.
The Concrete Institute of Australia Gold member revealed that several of its quarries, including Bass point, face significant stockpiles of excess dust which can be converted into ‘man sand’ or manufactured sand, by removing the superfine particles through a washing or dry separation process.
Materials used in concrete perform best when the particles are well rounded or cubical, aiding workability and strength, according to Heidelberg. However, existing crushers refine the shape of 10mm and 20mm aggregates but finer particles are notoriously difficult to shape effectively.
Because of this, man sand with its angular particles, can only be used to replace a third of natural sand in concrete mixes – but that’s where the technology, Kayasand, comes in.
Heidelberg says the Vertical Shaft Impactor crusher is capable of shaping finer particles enabling man sand to safely replace up to two thirds of natural sand in concrete without compromising on quality.
“This initiative is more than a technical upgrade. It’s a strategic investment in circular economy practices, cost-efficiency and sustainable growth, Heidelberg Materials stated.
“We look forward to seeing the transformation unfold over the next two years and will continue to share updates as this exciting project progresses.”
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