AZA 0934 RING & BALL APPARATUS(SEMI AUTOMATIC)

Description

AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic): Advanced Softening Point Determination by Azalab

The Azalab AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic) is a cutting-edge laboratory instrument engineered for the precise determination of the softening point of bitumen and other similar bituminous materials.AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic), Azalab, bitumen softening point, asphalt testing, ASTM D36, EN 1427 This critical test is fundamental for assessing the temperature susceptibility and high-temperature performance of asphalt binders, which directly impacts the resistance of pavements to rutting and deformation under hot climatic conditions. By combining the established Ring and Ball method with advanced semi-automatic features, the AZA 0934 significantly enhances accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency in quality control for road construction, civil engineering, and material science laboratories.

Precision Softening Point with the AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic)

The softening point is defined as the temperature at which a bituminous material attains a specific degree of softness under controlled conditions. In the Ring and Ball test, two horizontal discs of bitumen, cast in standardized brass rings, are heated in a liquid bath (typically distilled water or glycerin) at a precisely controlled rate of 5°C per minute. A steel ball of standard diameter and weight is placed on each bitumen disc. As the temperature of the bath rises, the bitumen softens, allowing the steel balls to sink downwards. The softening point is recorded as the temperature at which the bitumen-coated ball, along with the ball itself, drops a specified distance (typically 25.0 mm) through the ring. The AZA 0934 automates key aspects of this test, making it highly reliable for accurately assessing a binder’s temperature susceptibility and its suitability for various applications.

Semi-Automatic Features for Enhanced Performance: The AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic) integrates intelligent features to streamline the testing process and improve data quality:

• Microprocessor-Controlled Heating: A precise heating element coupled with a microprocessor ensures the exact 5°C/minute heating rate specified by international standards, crucial for accurate results.
• Digital Temperature Display: A high-resolution digital thermometer or RTD probe provides real-time temperature readings with high accuracy, often down to 0.1°C or 0.01°C.
• Automated Ball Drop Detection: Advanced detection systems (e.g., infrared light beam, contact sensor) accurately sense when the steel ball has dropped the required 25.0 mm, automatically recording the precise temperature at that instant. This eliminates human reaction time variability.
• Magnetic Stirrer: An integrated magnetic stirrer ensures uniform temperature distribution throughout the liquid bath, preventing localized hot spots and ensuring consistent heating of both bitumen samples.
• Built-in Cooling Fan: Some models include a cooling fan to rapidly bring the bath temperature down after a test, speeding up the readiness for the next test.
• User-Friendly Interface: A digital control panel or touchscreen provides intuitive operation, allowing for easy setup, monitoring, and result viewing.
• Safety Features: Over-temperature protection and sturdy construction ensure safe laboratory operation.

Key Components for Standard-Compliant Testing: The AZA 0934 typically includes all necessary components to perform the Ring and Ball test:

• Glass Beaker: A heat-resistant glass beaker (e.g., 800 ml) serves as the liquid bath.
• Brass Rings: Two precisely machined brass rings of standard dimensions (e.g., 20.0 ± 0.2 mm ID, 22.0 ± 0.2 mm OD, 6.40 ± 0.10 mm height).
• Steel Balls: Two steel balls of standard diameter (9.53 mm) and weight (3.50 ± 0.05 g).
• Ball Guides: Brass ball guides ensure the balls remain centered on the bitumen discs.
• Ring Support Assembly: A brass or stainless steel support plate and ring holder securely position the rings at the correct height within the beaker.
• Temperature Probe: A high-accuracy RTD or similar probe for digital temperature measurement.

Adherence to Global Standards: The Azalab AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic) is meticulously designed and manufactured to comply with leading international standards for softening point determination, including:

• ASTM D36: Standard Test Method for Softening Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus).
• EN 1427: Bitumen and bituminous binders – Determination of softening point – Ring and Ball method.
• AASHTO T53: Standard Method of Test for Softening Point of Bituminous Materials (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus). Compliance with these standards ensures that test results obtained from the AZA 0934 are consistent, comparable, and accepted by industry professionals and regulatory bodies worldwide, making it an indispensable tool for quality assurance and material specification.

The Azalab Commitment to Excellence: Azalab is dedicated to providing high-quality, precise laboratory equipment that empowers critical analysis in civil engineering and materials science. The AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus (Semi-Automatic) exemplifies this commitment, offering an advanced, accurate, and reliable solution for assessing the temperature performance of bitumen. We understand the critical role of precise material characterization in ensuring the safety, performance, and longevity of infrastructure. Our instruments are built to high standards, ensuring long-term performance and backed by comprehensive customer support.

Further Information and Resources: For detailed operational procedures, specific sample preparation guidelines, and the precise type of liquid bath (water vs. glycerin) to use based on expected softening point, users should refer to the latest versions of applicable standards such as ASTM D36 or EN 1427. Additional technical information, user manuals, and details on compatible accessories can be found on the Azalab official website.

Specifications:

• Model: AZA 0934
• Operation: Semi-Automatic (Microprocessor-controlled heating, automatic detection)
• Test Method: Ring and Ball Method
• Primary Application: Determination of Softening Point of Bitumen and Bituminous Binders.
• Temperature Range: Ambient to approx. 150°C (depending on heating bath liquid).
• Heating Rate: Microprocessor controlled 5.0 ± 0.5 °C/minute.
• Temperature Sensor: High-accuracy PT100 RTD probe.
• Temperature Display Resolution: Typically 0.1°C or 0.01°C.
• Ball Drop Detection: Automatic by optical sensor (light beam) or contact sensor.
• Components Included (Typical Assembly):
  • Glass Beaker (e.g., 800 ml)
  • Brass Rings (2 pcs, standard dimensions)
  • Steel Balls (2 pcs, standard diameter and weight)
  • Brass Ball Guides (2 pcs)
  • Ring Support Assembly (brass/stainless steel)
  • Integrated Heating System with Magnetic Stirrer
  • Digital Controller with Display
  • Cooling Fan (optional, for faster cooling)
• Power Supply: Typically 230V, 50/60 Hz, Single Phase (confirm specific model).
• Standards Compliance: ASTM D36, EN 1427, AASHTO T53, IP 58, IS 1205 (check specific model for full compliance details).
• Dimensions (Approx.): [Insert W x D x H, e.g., 250 x 300 x 400] mm.
• Weight (Approx.): [Insert Weight, e.g., 8-12] kg.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ):

• Q: What is the primary purpose of the AZA 0934 Ring & Ball Apparatus?
  • A: It is used to determine the softening point of bitumen and other bituminous materials, which indicates their temperature susceptibility.
• Q: What does “semi-automatic” mean for this apparatus?
  • A: It means the apparatus features automated heating rate control, digital temperature display, and automatic detection of ball drop, significantly reducing manual intervention and improving accuracy.
• Q: What standards does the AZA 0934 comply with?
  • A: It is designed to comply with international standards such as ASTM D36, EN 1427, and AASHTO T53.
• Q: Why is the softening point important for bitumen?
  • A: It’s crucial for understanding how bitumen will behave at high service temperatures, particularly its resistance to deformation and rutting in pavements.
• Q: What types of liquid baths can be used?
  • A: Distilled water is used for softening points below 80°C, and glycerin is used for softening points above 80°C, as per standard requirements.