IN-DIRECT HEATING BITUMEN TANK

1. What is an Indirect Heating Bitumen Tank?

An Indirect Heating Bitumen Tank is a bitumen storage unit that uses thermic fluid (thermal oil) to heat bitumen. Instead of a direct flame, heat is transferred through coils or a jacket filled with thermal oil, ensuring safe, uniform, and controlled heating without degrading the bitumen.

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2. How does the indirect heating process work?

A thermic fluid heater (boiler) heats the oil, which is then circulated through spiral coils or jackets around the bitumen tank. The thermal oil transfers heat indirectly to the bitumen, maintaining it at the desired working temperature (typically 150–180°C).

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3. What are the benefits of using indirect heating over direct heating?

✅ Prevents bitumen degradation
✅ Allows more uniform temperature control
✅ Safer for polymer-modified bitumen (PMB) and CRMB
✅ More suitable for continuous and long-term operations
✅ Longer equipment lifespan due to reduced thermal stress

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4. What capacity options are available for indirect heating tanks?

They are available in various capacities, typically ranging from 10,000 liters to 50,000 liters or more, depending on client requirements. Custom sizes can also be designed for asphalt plants or refineries.

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5. What kind of insulation is used in these tanks?

High-grade insulation such as Rockwool or Mineral Wool (100–150 mm thick) is used to retain heat. The outer cladding is made of Galvanized Iron (GI) or Aluminum sheets for durability and weather resistance.

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6. What kind of materials can be stored in an indirect heating tank?

These tanks are ideal for:

• VG-grade bitumen (VG-10, VG-30, VG-40)

• PMB (Polymer Modified Bitumen)

• CRMB (Crumb Rubber Modified Bitumen)

• Bitumen Emulsions (with appropriate design modifications)

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7. How is temperature controlled in the system?

Temperature is managed through digital or analog thermostatic controls. Sensors monitor both bitumen and thermic fluid temperatures, and the system adjusts burner output accordingly to maintain optimal heating.

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8. What are the main components of an indirect heating bitumen tank system?

• Bitumen Storage Tank (with coils or jacket)

• Thermic Fluid Heater (diesel or gas-fired)

• Thermic Fluid Circulation Pump

• Expansion Tank (for thermal oil)

• Bitumen Transfer Pump

• Control Panel with temperature controls

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9. What are the common safety features included?

• Overheat protection systems

• Emergency shut-off switches

• Insulated surfaces to prevent burns

• Flame failure detection on burner

• Pressure relief valves for thermic fluid circuit

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10. What maintenance is required for an indirect heating system?

• Regular monitoring of thermic fluid levels and quality

• Cleaning of thermic oil filters and burners

• Inspection of coil or jacket for scaling or leaks

• Routine checks on insulation integrity and temperature sensors

• Annual replacement or conditioning of thermic fluid (depending on usage)