Heat Design Equipment Inc. is known for their long-lasting, game-changing contributions to the construction industry, which is why a partnership with BLS Enterprises made so much sense. We are now the exclusive U.S. distributor for Heat Design Equipment’s (HDE) infrared joint heaters.
The HDE paver-attached infrared joint heater is a great money-and-time-saving solution to a problem that has plagued pavement owners for decades, early joint deterioration due to a lack of compaction at the edge. This problem often leads to costly repairs and early replacement of centerline/lane-edge longitudinal joints.
When a lane is paved and compacted, the edge is pushed out instead of down, which leaves that outer edge some 4-6% less compacted than the mat. The National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) has estimated that a 1% decrease in density can lead to a 10% decrease in the life of the pavement, so the centerline joint falls apart much earlier than it should.
WHAT'S THE SOLUTION?
Heat Design Equipment solved this problem by developing a paver-attached longitudinal joint heater that re-heats the cold, uncompacted edge so that it can be recompacted, ensuring a better, water-tight joint and preventing accelerated deterioration. The HDE paver-attached infrared joint heater is now available in three standard models with an optional trailer model.
HDE JMH 300-PA - 12’ 300,000 BTU
HDE JMH 400-PA - 16’ 400,000 BTU
HDE JMH 500-PA - 20’ 500,000 BTU
HDE joint heaters are designed to be expanded depending on paving requirements. Slower paver speeds may require an HDE 300-PA, but in just a few minutes it can be changed to a HDE 500-PA for highway paving. After the initial installation, the device can be attached to any brand of paver within ten minutes, as all electrical and propane connections are quick connect.
Each unit is pre-wired for electronic ignition, with both manual and automatic modes. When operating on automatic, the heater will switch from operating pressure (35 psi) to low pressure (5 - 10 psi) if there is a delay in the paving operation and the paver has to stop. When the paving operation commences again, the heat will automatically switch to operating pressure. The heater’s width can be adjusted based on paving width by sliding the heater on the 2” chrome shaft.
HDE JOINT-HEATING FAQ
Why are we using the joint heater?
It is a tool that will help get better compaction on the joint and seal it to prevent it from cracking and allowing water penetration and further damage of the road.
Will the heater slow us down?
No, the operator has the ability to turn the pressure up or down depending on paving conditions. In some cases, more heaters are required depending on ambient temperatures and required paving temperatures. This can be done at typical paving speeds.
How hot does the pavement need to be?
We recommend heating the joint to a minimum of 220°F (104°C). This will provide enough heat to allow the new and the old to bond.
Will the heater burn the asphalt?
No, the heater has 100% infrared heat and no open flame. When used properly there is not a chance for the heater to burn the asphalt.
Does all asphalt heat the same?
No, you will find different mixes will heat differently. For example, base asphalt will take longer to heat than surface course. This is because there is more stone, and it requires more BTU to heat the extra stone.
How long does it take for the machine to cool down?
The heaters start to cool instantly. It would take the same amount of time for it to cool as your paver would to cool down.
Do we need to take the joint heater off for transport?
Yes, it is recommended.
How much propane will we use?
Using four heaters (JMH 400 PA), you will use an average of two tanks per eight-hour shift.
Where is the propane stored?
The tanks can either be installed on top of the paver or in-front of the shuttle buggy hopper, depending on operation and operator preferences.
What size of machine should we use?
HDE offers three standard join heater models. The HDE 300, 400 and 500. The JMH 300 PA is the standard unit. A contractor can simply add more heaters make the heater longer for faster paving speeds or colder paving temperatures.
What type of densities should I expect?
With the use of the joint heater, we can achieve mat density or within 2% of mat density which is normally specified.
Do I have to apply tack coat on the joint?
No, the joint heater will heat the asphalt to the point where it will bond. Any application of tack coat will act as a barrier to the heat and slow the heating process down.
What is the cost to operate a joint heater per day?
Depends on the length of the joint heater.
Who provides the training?
HDE will provide all training for the operation of the heater, training on propane handling may be required depending on your local and state/province laws.
How long does it take to install the joint heater?
Initial Installation should take less than three hours depending on the model of the paver.
How long does it take to set the joint heater onto the paver?
Once the brackets are installed, it takes less than ten minutes to bolt onto the paver and ready for use.
Does the operator need propane training?
This depends on your local and states/province laws.
Why can’t I use a small portable infrared heater?
To effectively heat a joint to the required depth to achieve proper re-compaction the heater needs to be long enough and produce enough infrared emissions into the joint without slowing down.
How heavy is the joint heater?
The joint heater is 1200 pounds and is easily moved around on wheels when it's not in use.
Looking for more information or a quote, our engineers are ready to help. They can also be reached by phone at BLS’ main offices in the Chicago area at 833-236-5225.
