CAMM Quarries’ Rapid road to reliability

Rapidmix 400C meets demand for high-quality, cement-treated roadbase material in Queensland

THE Mendi Group have been operating in Queensland, Australia, for 63 years and are a second-generation family business. CAMM Quarries are one of the many businesses under their umbrella.

When CAMM Quarries first entered the quarrying business, they faced a significant challenge – their existing pugmill lacked the capability to deliver a consistent quality end product. To supply top-tier cement-treated roadbase to the construction industry, they needed a more reliable and efficient solution.

Jeff Doyle, managing director of the Mendi Group, first learned of Rapid’s reputation for advanced mixing technology in 2012, during a visit to their headquarters and manufacturing facility in Northern Ireland. While Mr Doyle had no immediate need for a mobile pugmill at the time, he kept a watchful eye on the market, and when he identified a demand for high-quality cement-treated roadbase material, the Rapidmix 400C became the obvious choice.

To CAMM Quarries, the Rapidmix 400C represented more than just reliability; it was about achieving consistency and productivity in their operations. Their ambition was to become Townsville’s preferred supplier of reliable cement-treated roadbase material.

When evaluating equipment options, CAMM Quarries conducted a thorough comparison, considering a competitor that offered a cheaper alternative. However, their long-standing relationship with Rapid’s Australian dealer partner, Lincom Group, and their after-sales support weighed heavily in favour of the Rapidmix 400C.

CAMM Quarries say they were drawn to the Rapidmix 400C primarily because of its reliability, substantial tonnage capacity, and output efficiency. The equipment’s ability to constantly deliver the desired performance was crucial to their operations.

Moreover, the aggregate hopper with a variable-speed belt feeder offers precise control over the flow of base material, contributing to the consistency of their mixes. The onboard cement/binder silo provides convenient access to the binding agent required for their operations, streamlining the mixing process, whilst the onboard water system ensures a continuous supply of water, crucial for maintaining the ideal moisture content in their mixes. 

Meanwhile, the twin-shaft continuous mixer thoroughly blends materials, further enhancing the quality of the end-products, whilst the out-loading conveyor facilitates the seamless transport of mixed materials from the mixing chamber to trucks, increasing operational efficiency.

Upon acquiring the Rapidmix 400C, Lincom Group arranged an OEM technician to provide on-site assistance with commissioning and training. This hands-on support was invaluable, upskilling CAMM Quarries’ team members and ensuring they could fully harness the equipment’s potential.

CAMM Quarries took additional steps to enhance the user-friendliness of the Rapidmix 400C. They established an air-conditioned control room adjacent to the equipment, streamlining operations, maintaining cleanliness, and preserving its pristine condition.

Keeping everything clean and well-maintained is a top priority, given the equipment’s significance and cost.

CAMM Quarries predominantly use the Rapidmix 400C to introduce cement powder into their roadbase materials. The equipment’s accuracy is said to be a standout feature, consistently meeting the company’s specifications and tolerances.

Asked if he would recommend the Rapidmix, Jeff Doyle’s response was an unequivocal ‘yes’. ‘The Rapidmix 400C steadily delivers exceptional performance, enabling the quarry to produce up to 2,200 tonnes of material daily, with trucks lining up for immediate loading. It’s probably one of the best-quality bits of gear I’ve bought,’ he said.

CAMM Quarries sees the Rapidmix 400C as a lasting investment built to withstand the rigours of daily use. Unlike other capital equipment that may wear out in a few years, they expect the Rapidmix 400C to serve them for many years.

It seems the investment in the Rapidmix 400C has proven to be a wise choice for CAMM Quarries. The equipment has met and exceeded their expectations, allowing them to provide top-quality cement for roadbase materials and solidifying their position as a trusted supplier in Townsville’s construction industry.