Cooling rocks and sand
OwnerMichael Leeinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A process of cooling sand and rocks enables large amounts of aggregate to be cooled to a desired temperature below ambient aggregate temperature. Such temperature reduction is particularly useful for preparing concrete. Aggregate is introduced into a rotating cylinder, in which the aggregate is slowly mixed and moved. Chilled gas is also introduced into the cylinder, to contact the aggregate particles and reduce the temperature of the aggregate. Chilled gas may be provided by blowing ambient air or gas into contact with a chilled gas or liquid supply, and then directing the chilled gas into the cylinder. The gas may be recirculated in a closed system, to conserve energy and prevent aggregate fines from being lost.
Claims17
A method for cooling rocks or sand used in concrete production to a desired aggregate temperature, comprising the steps of:
- introducing the rocks or sand into a cylinder with an entrance end and an exit end, by placing the rocks or sand into said entrance end, prior to combining the rocks or sand with other concrete components to produce concrete,
- rotating said cylinder, and
- introducing chilled gas with a temperature lower than ambient air temperature into said cylinder.
An apparatus for cooling rocks or sand used in concrete production to a desired aggregate temperature, comprising:
- a cylinder with an open entrance end and an open exit end opposite said entrance end, a central axis, an interior and exterior, and an upper portion and bottom portion, wherein the rocks or sand may be introduced into said interior of said cylinder by placing the rocks or sand into said entrance end of said cylinder, prior to combining the rocks or sand with other concrete components to produce concrete,
- rotation means for rotating said cylinder, and
- chilled gas means for introducing into said cylinder chilled gas with a temperature lower than ambient air temperature.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.