Abstract: A drum mixer asphalt plant is provided with a rotatable cylinder having an internal passageway where the aggregates and asphalt are mixed to produce an asphaltic composition. In a first zone within the mixer, aggregates are heated and dried by heat radiation and the stream of hot gases produced by a burner flame. In a second zone within the mixer, liquid asphalt is mixed with the aggregates. An exhaust tube is disposed within the passageway and extends from the output end of the drum mixer into the first zone to remove the hot gases to prevent degradation of the asphalt. Thus, the second zone wherein the liquid asphalt is mixed with the aggregate is isolated from the hot gases used for heating and drying. Recycle asphalt material may be added in both the first and second zones of the mixer drum.