Command Alkon programs precast platform

Sources: Command Alkon Inc., Birmingham, Ala.; CP staff

Through the ConExpo-Con/Agg launch of COMMANDbatch CP, Command Alkon aims to equip architectural, structural and utility/underground precast producers with new hardware and software packages built around moisture measurement, precise water dosage, pigment or color agent dispensing, mix delivery system and raw material replenishment tools. The program has the potential to significantly boost the company’s presence in manufactured concrete, limited thus far to architectural precast and higher volume, structural precast/prestressed plants.

“Integrated moisture devices for dry cast or self consolidating mix production, wireless remote control of plant mixers or flying buckets, color system interface and automated silo or bin level monitoring are important features for precast producers—and previously outside our capabilities,” says Atlanta-based Products Plant Specialist Wayne Faulkner, who had been Command Alkon Southeast area manager prior to his newly created post. CMDbatch CP combines new or existing software, hardware and plant components the company produces domestically, he adds, plus mixer-mounted moisture control or compensation tools from Hydronix Ltd. and Skako A/S.

The new system runs on a Windows-based PC main processor or wireless remote operator tablet, each enabling plant operators to control batching, mix delivery and accelerated production, and monitor mixer power, variable speed drives, coarse and fine aggregate moisture levels, and recycled-water densities. Additional components or functions include zero-slump mix moisture management; self consolidating mix water and spread management; mix delivery system control; automated raw material replenishment; and, color control interface. Command Alkon officials anticipate initial CMDbatch CP installations by mid-year.  —  800/624-1872; www.commandalkon.com