ROLLING THIN FILM OVEN AZA0968

The AZA0968 Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO) from AZALAB is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed to simulate the short-term aging of asphalt binders under controlled heat and airflow conditions. This test is a critical component of asphalt binder evaluation, as it replicates the oxidative aging that occurs during hot mixing, transportation, and laying of asphalt pavements.

Short-term aging significantly affects binder viscosity, stiffness, and overall rheological behavior. By accurately reproducing these conditions in the laboratory, the AZA0968 enables engineers to predict pavement performance, evaluate binder suitability, and ensure compliance with international specifications for durable and crack-resistant asphalt pavements.

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Description

Description

Principle of Operation

The AZA0968 operates on the Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO) method, in which a thin film of asphalt binder is continuously exposed to elevated temperature and controlled airflow.

Operating Mechanism:

  • The oven maintains a constant test temperature of 163°C (±0.5°C).

  • Eight standard glass RTFO bottles, each containing asphalt binder, are mounted on a precision rotating carriage.

  • As the carriage rotates, heated air is injected into each bottle at a specified flow rate.

  • The rotation causes the binder to form a thin rolling film along the inner wall of the bottle.

  • This maximizes exposure to heat and oxygen, accelerating short-term aging.

The resulting aged binder is then used for further testing such as viscosity, penetration, ductility, and rheological analysis.


Standards Compliance

The AZA0968 Rolling Thin Film Oven is manufactured to meet or exceed international and national testing standards, ensuring global acceptance of test results:

  • ASTM D2872 – Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving Film of Asphalt (RTFO Test)

  • AASHTO T240 – Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving Film of Asphalt

  • IS 9382 – Rolling Thin Film Oven Method (where applicable)


Key Features & Advantages

  • Accurate Short-Term Aging Simulation – Replicates real construction aging conditions

  • High-Precision Temperature Control – Maintains 163°C with ±0.5°C accuracy

  • Uniform Heating & Airflow – Ensures repeatable and consistent test results

  • Motorized Rotating Carriage – Smooth, stable rotation for uniform binder exposure

  • Stainless Steel Test Chamber – Corrosion-resistant and thermally stable

  • High-Efficiency Thermal Insulation – Minimizes heat loss and energy consumption

  • Digital PID Temperature Controller – Easy programming and real-time monitoring

  • Integrated Safety Systems – Over-temperature protection and safety interlocks


Applications

  • Asphalt binder performance grading (PG system)

  • Superpave mix design and evaluation

  • Quality control and quality assurance in asphalt plants

  • Highway authority and government laboratory testing

  • Research and development of modified and polymer-based binders

  • Academic and pavement material research laboratories

The AZA0968 plays a vital role in predicting pavement durability, resistance to rutting and cracking, and long-term service performance.


Construction & Design

  • Inner Chamber: High-grade stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance

  • Outer Body: Powder-coated mild steel or stainless steel for long service life

  • Insulation: High-performance thermal insulation for temperature stability

  • Rotation System: Precision motor drive with consistent rotational speed

  • Airflow System: Calibrated air pump and flow meter for accurate air delivery

All components are designed for continuous laboratory operation under demanding testing schedules.


Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Model Number AZA0968
Oven Type Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO)
Standard Compliance ASTM D2872, AASHTO T240, IS 9382
Test Temperature 163°C (standard)
Temperature Accuracy ±0.5°C or better
Temperature Uniformity Excellent across chamber
Chamber Material Stainless Steel
Exterior Finish Powder-coated MS / Stainless Steel
Insulation High-efficiency thermal insulation
Sample Capacity 8 RTFO glass bottles
Rotation Speed 15 ± 0.2 rpm
Airflow Rate 4000 ± 200 mL/min per bottle
Controller Microprocessor-based PID digital controller
Safety Features Over-temperature cut-off, door interlock
Power Supply 230V AC, 50 Hz, Single Phase
Dimensions Model dependent

Why Choose AZA0968?

  • Globally Accepted Testing Method

  • High Repeatability & Accuracy

  • Robust Construction for Long-Term Use

  • Essential Equipment for Asphalt Binder QC

  • Trusted by Highway Authorities & Research Labs


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the main purpose of AZA0968?
To simulate short-term aging of asphalt binders that occurs during mixing and laying.

Q2: Why is short-term aging important?
It significantly alters binder stiffness and performance, affecting pavement durability.

Q3: Which standards does it comply with?
ASTM D2872, AASHTO T240, and IS 9382.

Q4: How many samples can be tested at once?
Eight standard RTFO glass bottles per test cycle.

Q5: What maintenance is required?
Routine chamber cleaning, airflow verification, temperature calibration, and bottle inspection.

Q6: How does AZA0968 improve pavement quality?
By enabling accurate prediction of binder behavior during construction, ensuring optimal mix design and longer pavement life.


AZA0968 – Precision Rolling Thin Film Oven for Asphalt Binder Aging Evaluation

An essential instrument for asphalt laboratories focused on performance-based design, compliance, and long-lasting road infrastructure.

Additional information

Additional information

Model Number

AZA 0968

Oven Type

Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO)

Exterior Material

Powder-coated Mild Steel or Stainless Steel.
.

Insulation

High-efficiency thermal insulation

Dimensions

Varies depending on model and features.

Digital Controller

Microprocessor-based PID temperature controller with digital display.