concrete crushers in georgia

Concrete Crushers in Georgia: An Overview of Services, Solutions, and Key Considerations

The state of Georgia, with its ongoing construction, demolition, and infrastructure projects, generates significant amounts of concrete rubble. Concrete crushers in Georgia provide the essential service of processing this waste material into valuable recycled products like crushed concrete aggregate (RCA). This article outlines the types of crushing services available, compares key service providers, presents real-world applications, and addresses common questions about concrete crushing in the region.

Types of Concrete Crushing Services
Providers in Georgia typically offer two primary service models:

Service Type	Description	Best For
Mobile On-Site Crushing	A portable crusher is transported to a project site (e.g., a demolition location or construction site) to process concrete directly where it lies.	Large demolition projects, road/roadway reconstruction, sites with limited space for hauling or high hauling costs.
Freight-In / Facility Crushing	Demolished concrete is hauled to a permanent recycling facility or quarry where it is processed.	Smaller projects, contractors without a suitable site for mobile equipment, or when material is scattered across multiple locations.

A Real-World Case Study: The Georgia DOT I-285/I-20 East Interchange Project
A prime example of large-scale concrete recycling is the major reconstruction of the I-285/I-20 interchange in DeKalb County by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). This project involved demolishing existing concrete pavement and bridge structures.

• Solution: Contractors utilized mobile concrete crushers directly on-site or at nearby staging areas.
• Process: The old concrete was broken down, sorted from rebar and contaminants, and fed through jaw and impact crushers to produce specified aggregate sizes.
• Outcome: The crushed material was reused as a stable base layer (sub-base) for new ramps and roads within the same project. This practice aligned with GDOT's sustainability initiatives by reducing landfill waste, lowering material costs for the contractor, and minimizing truck traffic for hauling virgin aggregate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the primary uses for crushed concrete in Georgia?
Crushed concrete is widely used as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to virgin aggregate. Common applications include:

• Road Base & Sub-Base: The largest application, providing a stable foundation for new roads, parking lots, and driveways.
• Pipe Bedding: Used as backfill around drainage pipes.
• Erosion Control: As riprap for ditch lining or slope stabilization.
• Aggregate for New Concrete: Processed to high standards, RCA can be used in certain mixes for new structural concrete (subject to engineer specifications).

2. Is using a mobile crusher more cost-effective than hauling debris to a landfill?
In most cases involving substantial volume (typically over 2,000 tons), yes. While pricing varies by project size and location, mobile crushing eliminates landfill tipping fees (which can exceed $30/ton in parts of Georgia) and reduces transportation costs. It also creates valuable material on-site that avoids the cost of purchasing new aggregate. A detailed cost analysis from a local provider is recommended.

3. What permits are required for on-site concrete crushing in Georgia?
Permitting is primarily managed at the county level through local Environmental Health Departments or Planning & Zoning offices. An Air Quality Permit from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) is typically required for portable crushing operations due to potential dust emissions. Reputable crushing contractors will often manage or assist with this permitting process.

4. How is rebar and metal handled during the crushing process?
Modern crushers are equipped with powerful electromagnets or manual methods to remove reinforcing bar (rebar) and other metals during processing. The separated steel is recycled separately, adding another layer of sustainability and potential value offset for the project.

5. Who are some established concrete crushing service providers in Georgia?
The market includes both specialized national firms and local Georgia operators. Established providers often listed in state DOT vendor databases or industry directories include companies like Bond Construction & Materials, Milton CAT's Crushing & Screening division, and regional aggregates producers such as Vulcan Materials Company and Martin Marietta, which offer recycling services at many of their Georgia facilities alongside virgin material production.

When selecting a contractor, it is crucial to verify their experience with similar projects in Georgia's specific regulatory environment , request references from past clients within the state ,and ensure they carry proper insurance including General Liability .