For many road contractors, the question is not just about buying asphalt, but about producing it themselves. When handling projects under 30 km, deciding whether to invest in a 120 TPH asphalt mixer plant becomes a crucial financial and operational choice. Let’s break down the real factors that matter to contractors, and see if such a plant can truly save costs and improve project efficiency.
Understanding the Capacity of a 120 TPH Asphalt Plant
A 120 TPH asphalt mixing plant can produce up to 120 tons of asphalt per hour. This scale is suitable for medium to large projects where consistent supply is essential. Even for projects under 30 km, this plant offers strong production flexibility. For example, a 20 km road often requires more than 20,000 tons of asphalt. At full capacity, the plant can meet this demand within weeks, ensuring steady project progress.
Before making a decision, contractors need to consider both the production requirements and the project schedule. If your project demands continuous supply without interruption, this capacity ensures efficiency.
Comparing Plant Production vs. Buying Asphalt
Now, let’s compare two options: producing asphalt with your own plant versus buying from suppliers. When purchasing asphalt, the average market price can vary between $50–$70 per ton, depending on location. Transporting it to the site adds extra costs, especially if the asphalt plant is more than 15 km away. Transportation also brings the risk of quality loss during long hauls, since asphalt cools quickly.
By contrast, producing asphalt with your own 120 TPH asphalt batch plant for sale reduces these risks. Production costs can drop to around $35–$45 per ton, depending on fuel and raw material prices. Over a 20,000-ton requirement, this difference can save between $100,000 and $200,000. For contractors, that means higher margins and stronger competitiveness in bidding.
Logistics Advantage for Projects Under 30 km
Distance plays a huge role in asphalt quality. When projects are within 30 km, transporting asphalt from your own mixing plant to the site keeps the mix hot and workable. This ensures smooth paving and fewer quality defects. Reduced haul distance also cuts fuel expenses and truck maintenance costs.
In short, having your own plant near the project location strengthens control. Contractors can adjust mix types on demand, without waiting for external suppliers. This flexibility translates into faster progress and better pavement performance.
Investment vs. Long-Term Value
Of course, buying a 120 TPH asphalt plant requires significant upfront investment. Depending on configuration, prices usually range from $250,000 to $500,000. However, the payback period is often short if you handle continuous or multiple projects in a year. For example, completing just two medium-scale roads of 20–25 km each can already cover a large portion of the investment.
Moreover, owning the plant strengthens your company’s reputation. Clients see you as capable of handling large contracts independently. Over time, this opens doors to bigger projects and government tenders where asphalt supply reliability is a key factor.
When a 120 TPH Plant Makes the Most Sense
Multiple Projects in the Same Region
If you often win contracts in one area, setting up a 120 TPH amp hotmix nearby keeps costs low across several projects.
Strict Quality Requirements
High-standard highway and bridge projects demand consistent asphalt quality. Producing in-house ensures better control than relying on outside suppliers.
Need for Competitive Pricing
By cutting asphalt purchase costs, contractors can offer better prices in tenders while keeping profits intact. This advantage often secures more contracts.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
For projects under 30 km, a 120 TPH asphalt mixing plant can be highly cost-effective. The key factors are production demand, project frequency, and long-term growth goals. If your company plans to expand and handle continuous roadwork, the investment delivers strong returns. On the other hand, if projects are small and infrequent, buying asphalt might still be cheaper.
Work With Us for Tailored Asphalt Solutions
At AIMIX, we, as an outstanding asphalt mixing plant supplier, don’t just sell asphalt mixing plants—we provide tailored solutions based on your project size, distance, and budget. Whether you’re considering a 120 TPH plant or exploring other options, we help you calculate the real cost savings before making a decision. Contact us today to discuss your projects, and let’s find the most efficient path for your success.