Softening Point Ring and Ball Point Apparatus, Advanced Automatic
NL 2012 X / 006

Standard: EN 1427, ASTM D36, AASHTO T53

Softening Point Ring and Ball Point Apparatus, Advanced Automatic

The Advance Ring & Ball Softening  Point Tester is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display and a blade-type stirrer. It ensures excellent heating linearity and employs high-precision optical detection technology to scan the steel ball's sinking distance (25.4mm) and automatically record test results. By simply pressing the “Start Test” button, the entire test is carried out automatically, delivering accurate and reliable results. This instrument is suitable for asphalt performance testing and research in highway, urban construction, petrochemical industries, and scientific research institutes.

Features of Softening Point Ring and Ball Point Apparatus, Advanced Automatic

- Microprocessor.
- Automatic result capture for water or glycerol.
- Memory up to 50 tests.
- Adjustable stirring speed.
- Real time display of temperature and time.

Standard: EN 1427, ASTM D36, AASHTO T53

• EN 1427

This European standard specifies the method for determining the softening point of bitumen. The softening point is a key property of bitumen used in road construction, as it indicates the temperature at which the bitumen becomes soft enough to deform under a load. EN 1427 provides the procedure for conducting the softening point test using various apparatus, which includes, the ring and the ball method. It helps in ensuring consistency and reliability when assessing the quality and performance of bituminous materials across European countries. 

• ASTM D36

This standard established by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), focuses on determining the softening point of bitumen or tar using the ring and ball bitumen. This method encompasses heating a bitumen sample and measuring the temperature at which it softens enough for a steel ball of specified dimensions to fall a predetermined distance through it. The bitumen's softening point is a key indicator of its response to temperature fluctuations, making it indispensable in road construction. Through ASTM D36, a consistent and standardized methodology for evaluating this parameter is established, ensuring reliability and comparability of bitumen evaluation across different project scopes and geographical areas. This standard serves as a cornerstone for engineers and technicians, aiding them in choosing the right bitumen grades tailored to varying road surfaces, climates, and traffic volumes, thereby enhancing the longevity and safety of road networks.

• AASHTO T53

This standard is established under the guidance of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and serves as a benchmark for determining the softening point of bitumen, a key element in road construction. Similar to ASTM D36 and EN 1427, this method utilizes the ring and ball apparatus to pinpoint the temperature at which bitumen softens. AASHTO T53 ensures consistent assessments of bitumen's temperature sensitivity, ensuring consistent quality and performance of road surfaces regardless of geographical location or environmental conditions. 

Test Procedure of Softening Point Ring and Ball Point Apparatus, Advanced Automatic

1. Preparation of Sample: A Bitumen sample should be prepared by molding it into a disc or cylinder of specified dimensions. Ensure the sample is free from any contaminants.
2. Setup: Set up the Advance Automatic Softening Point Apparatus according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves assembling the ring and ball components and ensuring proper alignment and calibration of the apparatus.
3. Heating: Place the bitumen sample at the bottom of the apparatus and position the steel ball directly above it. Commence heating gradually, ensuring the temperature rises steadily and uniformly under controlled conditions.
4. Observation: As the temperature rises, observe the bitumen sample closely. At the softening point, the bitumen will soften enough for the steel ball to start sinking through the sample under its own weight. 
5. Softening Point Determination: Record the temperature at which the steel ball penetrates through the bitumen sample, making contact with the base of the apparatus. This recorded temperature signifies the softening point of the bitumen.
6. Cooling: Before removing the bitumen sample, allow the apparatus to cool down to room temperature after the determination of the softening point. 
7. Cleaning: Clean the apparatus thoroughly after use to remove any residual bitumen and to ensure accurate measurements for future tests. 
8. Data Recording: All relevant data should be recorded, including the temperature at which softening occurs and any observations made during the test. 
9. Verification: Double-check the obtained results by comparing them with relevant standards or specifications to confirm their accuracy and reliability.
10. Reporting: Create a comprehensive report outlining the testing process, outcomes, and any notable observations or discrepancies noted throughout the experiment.

Technical Specifications:

Unit Consists Of:

Optional Accessories:

Product Video

How to Operate Softening Point Ring and Ball Point Apparatus, Advanced Automatic