SEMI-AUTOMATIC PENETROMETER AZA0940

Description

Understanding Bitumen Consistency with AZA0940

The penetration test is a fundamental method for evaluating the hardness or softness of bituminous binders. It measures the depth (in tenths of a millimeter) to which a standard penetration needle penetrates vertically into a sample under controlled conditions:

• Standard load: 100 g

• Penetration time: 5 seconds (adjustable)

• Test temperature: Typically 25°C

• Higher penetration value → Softer bitumen (preferred in cold climates)

• Lower penetration value → Harder bitumen (preferred in hot climates)

The AZA0940 ensures this test is performed under precisely controlled conditions, producing reliable results critical for bitumen grading, pavement design, and asphalt performance evaluation.

Semi-Automatic Operation for Improved Accuracy

The AZA0940 enhances conventional penetration testing by incorporating semi-automatic functionality that significantly reduces operator dependency while retaining practical manual control.

• Digital programmable timer automatically controls the needle release and locking

• Ensures a precise and repeatable penetration duration

• Eliminates timing errors associated with manual stopwatches

• Improves repeatability and inter-operator consistency

The penetration depth is measured using a high-resolution digital gauge (0.01 mm), offering superior accuracy compared to dial-based systems.

Key Features

Digital Penetration Measurement

• High-resolution digital penetration gauge

• Resolution: 0.01 mm

• Clear, stable readings with minimal interpretation error

Electronic Programmable Timer

• Automatically controls needle free fall and locking

• Adjustable penetration time (typically 0–99 seconds)

• Standard 5-second penetration per ASTM / EN requirements

Automatic Needle Release

• Magnetic controller ensures smooth, vibration-free needle movement

• Consistent test execution across operators

Robust Mechanical Construction

• Heavy-duty cast iron base for maximum stability

• Fine leveling screws with built-in spirit level

• Rigid vertical column to prevent lateral movement

Precision Vertical Adjustment

• Coarse and fine height adjustment using rack and pinion mechanism

• Allows accurate positioning of the needle tip on the sample surface

Enhanced Visibility

• Magnifying lens for accurate needle contact

• Low-voltage illuminator on flexible arm for clear viewing

Complete Accessory Set

• Standard penetration needle (2.5 ± 0.05 g)

• Needle holder

• Calibrated weights (50 g, 100 g)

• Standard aluminium sample cups

Applications

• Bitumen and asphalt grading

• Asphalt plant quality control

• Pavement material selection

• Research and development laboratories

• Petroleum, grease, and wax testing

• Academic and training laboratories

Standards Compliance

The AZA0940 Semi-Automatic Penetrometer is manufactured in accordance with major international standards:

• ASTM D5 – Penetration of Bituminous Materials

• EN 1426 – Determination of Needle Penetration

• AASHTO T49

• IP 49

• IS 1203

This ensures globally accepted, reproducible, and auditable test results.

Technical Specifications

Why Choose AZA0940?

• Ideal balance between manual and fully digital systems

• Accurate, repeatable penetration measurements

• Automatic timing minimizes operator error

• Robust construction for long-term laboratory use

• Fully compliant with international standards

• Cost-effective upgrade from manual penetrometers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary use of AZA0940?
It is used to determine the consistency (hardness or softness) of bituminous materials through penetration testing.

Q2: Why is it called semi-automatic?
Because the needle release and locking are automatically controlled by a digital timer, while sample setup and positioning remain manual.

Q3: What is the measurement resolution?
The digital gauge provides readings with 0.01 mm resolution.

Q4: Can penetration time be adjusted?
Yes. The timer is programmable, typically up to 99 seconds.

Q5: Does it meet international standards?
Yes. It complies with ASTM D5, EN 1426, and AASHTO T49.

AZA0940 Semi-Automatic Penetrometer

Reliable accuracy, reduced operator error, and robust performance for modern bitumen testing.