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Long's satisfaction with the smaller plant was so complete that, when continued growth and demand for asphalt in the area forced a need to increase production, he contacted Asphalt Drum Mixers.

"One thing we learned over the years was that ADM focuses on simplicity in every aspect of their plant design," he says. "As a result, the new Roadbuilder 160, like the older plant, is extremely easy to run and easy to maintain.

"In addition, most replacement parts are, in every sense of the word, ‘off the shelf,' which is great for us," he continues. "The majority of electrical components and other parts can be found through local stores and shops, so waiting for parts is never an issue. Staying with ADM for the new plant made sense for us on so many levels."

Other features on Long's new plant include a 30-ton self-erecting silo, four cold-feed bins, a 20,000-gallon AC tank, wet scrubber, weigh conveyor, an 8' x 16' control room and the capability to generate various grades of asphalt at a much-needed 165-tph capacity. While RAP does not fit into Long's plans at this time, the system is designed for easy expansion to incorporate it at a later date.

Controlling their destiny

Having a sense of real control - as it has in maintenance issues - is a theme that has been a cornerstone of Long's operations for better than a decade now. For years, like so many paving companies in the area, he had been reliant upon other asphalt producers in the area for his material. And, like so many of his colleagues, he found himself continually frustrated.