Drum asphalt concrete mixing equipment, developed in the 1970s, is characterized by the continuous drying, heating, and mixing of aggregates and sand within a single drum. A burner is installed in the center of the drum's feed end, heating the material along with the flow. Hot asphalt liquid is injected into the front half of the drum, where it is mixed with the hot aggregates by gravity before being discharged. This simplifies the process and reduces dust emissions. The finished product is stored in a silo for later use. In recent years, this type of mixing equipment has incorporated electronic technology and new testing instruments, enabling automated production and strict control of the mix proportions to ensure product quality.

Development trends include larger scale; computer-controlled production processes; improved mixing techniques; and reduced fuel consumption.