Primary Aggregates
Primary aggregates, also known as quarried aggregates, are natural materials sourced directly from the earth through the extraction process in quarries. These materials include essential substances such as limestone, granite, sand, and gravel, which are formed over thousands of years through natural geological processes. Once extracted, they undergo minimal processing to maintain their structural integrity and quality. Quarried aggregates are prized for their purity and consistency, making them the preferred choice for projects that require robust, reliable materials. At Groundworx Grabhire Ltd, we offer a wide range of premium primary aggregates, carefully sourced to meet the highest industry standards, ensuring strength, durability, and long-lasting performance across a variety of construction and landscaping applications. The different types of products made from quarried aggregates include crushed stone, sand and gravel.

Produced from primary aggregates which larger rocks are crushed into smaller rocks which are ideal for road construction, driveways, foundations and other construction applications. Crushed stone products include common variations such as MOT Type 1, Crushed 6F2, Gabion Stone, Crusher run and more.
Sand is a fine aggregate that is naturally sourced from rivers, beaches, and quarries. It is available in different grades, including coarse, fine, and sharp sand. Sand is essential in multiple application including concrete mixes and for bedding and as a base layer for paving. It offers a smooth texture, workability in mixes, and excellent compaction properties.
Gravel is a loose aggregation of rock fragments that varies in size from pebbles to larger stones. It is sourced from riverbeds, glacial deposits, and quarries. Gravel is widely used for driveways, drainage systems, landscaping, and as a base material for construction projects.
Gravel helps provides excellent drainage, adds aesthetic appeal to outdoor spaces, and is highly versatile.
HOW PRIMARY AGGREGATES ARE PRODUCED
1. Extraction:
Quarrying: The production of primary aggregates begins with the extraction of raw materials from quarries or natural deposits such as riverbeds or glacial deposits. Large machinery, such as excavators and bulldozers, is used to remove the overburden (the layer of soil and rock covering the deposit) and access the aggregate material beneath.
Blasting: In some cases, controlled blasting is employed to break up large rock formations, making it easier to process the material into the desired sizes.


2. Crushing:
Processing: Once the raw material is extracted, it is transported to a processing plant where it is fed into crushers. These machines break down the large rocks into smaller, more manageable pieces. The crushing process ensures that the aggregates are of consistent size and shape, which is crucial for their performance in construction applications.
3. Screening:
Sorting: After crushing, the material is passed through a series of screens that separate it based on size. Different sizes are used for different purposes, such as fine sand for concrete mixes or larger gravel for road bases.
Grading: The aggregates are graded according to industry standards, ensuring that they meet the specific requirements for their intended use.


4. Washing:
Cleaning: In some cases, aggregates undergo a washing process to remove fines, dust, and impurities like soil or clay. This step ensures the material meets high standards for construction use by improving its performance and durability. The washing process also enables the production of specific products like 0-2mm soft sand and 0-4mm sharp sand, which are essential for applications such as concrete, mortar, and paving. These fine aggregates are carefully graded and cleaned, providing a consistent product essential for a variety of construction works.
5. Transportation:
Delivery: Once processed, the aggregates are carefully loaded onto trucks for transport to construction sites or directly to customers. At Groundworx Grabhire Ltd, we pride ourselves on providing a prompt and reliable delivery service, ensuring that your materials arrive on time and in perfect condition. Our efficient delivery process means that the aggregates are ready for immediate use in your project, helping you stay on schedule and maintain productivity. Whether it’s a large construction site or a smaller, more specific job, we ensure a hassle-free delivery experience tailored to your needs.
