Suppose you've worked with polymer modified asphalt (PMA) or rubber modified asphalt (RMA). In that case, you already know the struggle: extreme viscosity, unpredictable flow behavior, and an ongoing battle with coking and material build-up inside your heating coils. These high-performance binders offer undeniable road performance benefits, but the equipment headaches can be relentless—especially when conventional heat transfer designs fall short.
That's where QMax Industries' MakoFin comes in. Explicitly designed for high-viscosity fluids like PMA and RMA, the MakoFin introduces a more innovative finned-tube geometry that addresses the root of the problem—not just the symptoms.
The Problem with Traditional Coil Designs
Traditional internal heating coils often rely on circular or helical geometries, which were designed decades ago for more forgiving materials. While these work reasonably well for unmodified asphalt, they struggle when it comes to handling PMA and RMA. These blends tend to settle, stratify, and coke, especially in low-flow zones. Over time, this results in uneven heat distribution, localized overheating, and the dreaded build-up that chokes flow, reduces efficiency and triggers unplanned shutdowns.
Even the best flow control strategies can't fully compensate for a coil design that unintentionally creates "cold zones" or stagnant film layers where material degradation occurs.
What Makes the MakoFin Different?
QMax didn't just tweak an old design—they engineered the MakoFin from the ground up to solve the specific heat transfer problems found in modified asphalt tanks.
The MakoFin features a proprietary fin geometry that maximizes surface area while encouraging turbulent flow across the entire heated surface. Unlike traditional coils that can create isolated heat pockets, the MakoFin promotes an even distribution of thermal energy, allowing heat to move efficiently through the high-viscosity fluid.
By pushing more consistent flow over the entire heating surface, MakoFin reduces film temperatures and eliminates the risk of localized overheating—two major contributors to coking and polymer breakdown.
This results in:
- Improved product integrity
- Reduced maintenance frequency
- Fewer shutdowns
- Longer equipment life
Built for Harsh Conditions
PMA and RMA aren't just thick—they're also chemically aggressive, especially at elevated temperatures. QMax constructs the MakoFin using high-quality carbon or stainless steel, depending on the application, and designs each coil layout to achieve maximum thermal efficiency with a minimal footprint. Every MakoFin system integrates seamlessly into existing tank infrastructure, minimizing downtime during retrofit installations.
Because QMax designed the MakoFin with durability in mind, facilities benefit from better system uptime and lower operational costs. Over months and years, those savings add up—especially in 24/7 operations where any downtime means lost revenue.
Patent-Pending, Field-Proven
Although the MakoFin remains "patent pending," its performance already speaks volumes. Customers across the asphalt industry have reported significant reductions in coking, faster tank heat-up times, and noticeably cleaner coil surfaces during maintenance cycles. Engineers no longer need to accept high-viscosity problems as unavoidable. With MakoFin, QMax offers a solution that solves the root problem—by keeping fluid moving and heat evenly spread.
Final Thoughts
The asphalt industry has evolved. Materials have become more complex, and performance standards have risen. But for too long, internal tank heating technology lagged. The QMax MakoFin changes that.
If you're tired of dealing with build-up, inconsistent heating, or unplanned downtime in your PMA or RMA tanks, it's time to take a closer look at a heat transfer solution engineered specifically for the challenge. The MakoFin doesn't just manage heat—it manages your peace of mind.
1955 West Industrial Circle
Salt Lake City, Utah 84104
Phone: 801-262-4477
Fax: 801-261-0862
Web: https://energy-west.com