CDE Commissions a Game-Changing Wash Plant for Granite in Utah
In the heart of Utah’s thriving construction landscape, CDE, a global leader in sand and aggregate wet processing solutions, has made waves by commissioning a cutting-edge 550 tons per hour (tph) wash plant for Granite. This ambitious venture not only promises to meet growing infrastructure demands in the Greater Salt Lake City area but also underscores a commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
Granite, one of the largest construction and materials companies in the United States, operates a network of 35 aggregate and 59 asphalt plants across seven states and British Columbia, Canada. With this new facility, the company aims to solidify its position as a cornerstone of the region’s construction supply chain.
Infrastructure on the Rise
The Wasatch Front, including Salt Lake City, is experiencing unprecedented growth. Rapid urbanisation, strategic economic importance, and significant population increases have driven a surge in infrastructure projects. The 2034 Winter Olympics, set to be hosted in Salt Lake City, has further intensified the need for robust construction resources.
According to US News & World Report, Utah ranks third in the United States for both infrastructure and economic growth. These accolades highlight the state’s exceptional transportation networks, energy systems, and business environment. However, with opportunity comes the challenge of resource management—particularly in providing high-quality sand and aggregate.
Granite’s Vision
To keep pace with the booming demand, Granite sought to expand its capacity with a high-efficiency, sustainable solution. As a key player in both construction and materials supply, the company recognised the critical need for reliable access to washed concrete aggregates and sand.
This new wash plant, located at the Coyote Pit site, is set to transform how Granite serves its clients and the wider market.
The Journey to Partnership
The collaboration between Granite and CDE began in 2023, facilitated by CDE’s preferred partner, Goodfellow Corporation. Early discussions blossomed into a robust partnership, fuelled by shared values and a drive for innovation.
Granite representatives toured CDE’s plants in Texas, attended the company’s Open House in Alberta, and visited its manufacturing facility in Northern Ireland. These visits cemented trust and provided first-hand insights into CDE’s advanced technologies.
Ric Skinner, Manager at Granite, remarked: “CDE’s approach, technology, and commitment to meeting our business needs played a critical role in solidifying this partnership. After seeing their solutions in action, we knew they were the right choice.”
Ryan O’Loan, CDE’s Business Development Manager, emphasised the importance of building trust through transparency: “Granite’s decision was solidified after visiting our plants and experiencing our technology first-hand. Organising these visits was key to demonstrating our commitment to excellence.”
A Technological Marvel
The new 550tph plant showcases a suite of innovative systems, including:
- AggMax™ Scrubbing System: Delivers efficient material cleaning.
- EvoWash™ Sand Wash System: Produces high-quality sand.
- AquaCycle™ Thickener: Supports water recycling and conservation.
- Filter Press System: Handles sludge dewatering with ease.
Granite’s site in Salt Lake City, characterised by its arid climate, required a water-efficient solution. The integration of AquaCycle and the filter press allows up to 95% of process water to be recycled, minimising freshwater consumption to just 11,000 gallons per hour—a testament to the plant’s sustainability.
Overcoming Challenges
Delivering a high-capacity plant within tight timelines wasn’t without its hurdles. From designing a facility tailored to Granite’s needs to managing the complexities of water scarcity, the project demanded meticulous planning and collaboration.
Stormy Watne, Plant Manager at Granite, expressed gratitude for CDE’s adaptability: “This plant is everything we could have wanted and more. Despite the challenges, CDE delivered on time and exceeded expectations with their sustainable solutions.”
A Sustainable Supply Chain
Since its commissioning, the plant has processed over 410,000 tons of sellable material, including C33 washed concrete sand, #67 washed rock, and 3/8-inch chips. With a consistent and reliable supply, Granite has reinforced its position as a market leader while supporting the region’s ambitious infrastructure projects.
Granite’s investment also aligns with its commitment to environmental stewardship. By leveraging CDE’s innovative water management technologies, the company is not only reducing its ecological footprint but also preserving Utah’s precious water resources.
Strengthening Foundations
The success of this project reflects the power of trust and innovation in tackling modern construction challenges. Granite’s partnership with CDE has yielded a high-performance plant capable of meeting the region’s growing demand for sand and aggregates, all while setting new benchmarks for sustainability.
Ryan O’Loan summarised the partnership’s impact: “This project highlights the strength of collaboration. Together, we’ve delivered a solution that ensures Granite can continue to serve the local market while championing sustainable practices.”
A Lasting Legacy
As the Greater Salt Lake City area gears up for a transformative decade, this partnership between Granite and CDE stands as a beacon of what’s possible when innovation meets ambition. By prioritising efficiency, sustainability, and quality, they’re not just building infrastructure—they’re building a better future.
