These tests methods are used for quantitative determinations of bitumen in hot-mixed paving mixtures and paving samples for specification acceptance, service evaluation, control and research.
These methods prescribe the solvent or solvents that can be used for the binder extraction and recovery.
The representative bitumen sample can be used to perform other tests such as penetration, softening point, etc.. Aggregates, including filler, are also separated and remain available for sample grading.
We are proposing several models of extraction system, including the Automatic Closed-System Asphalt Analyzer.
Operating principle
The asphalt sample (maximum 3.5 kg) is placed in a washing drum lined with a sinthered multilayer mesh with openings 0.063, 0.075 or 0.090 mm wide and it is fitted into the washing chamber. Bitumen and filler are separated from the sample by washing with solvent and ultrasonic motion. The mixture of filler/bitumen/solvent is then centrifuged and the filler is separated. The aggregates and filler are dried by forced air circulation and the residue of solvent recovered by condensation.
The remaining bitumen/solvent solution is distilled and separated in two different tanks. Part of the bitumen/solvent solution can be drained off before distillation and connected to a flask for use with a rotary evaporator to recover a bitumen sample for other tests. The clean distilled solvent is recycled for other extractions.
The analyzer shall be connected to a suitable water cooling unit to feed the three different cooling coils of the apparatus (see Accessories).
PAVELAB50 Automatic Closed-System Asphalt Analyzer consists in:
Machine body: steel sheet, powder coated with epoxy resin. Wheel mounted.
Washing chamber: high quality stainless steel fitted with ultrasonic equipment, heating system, driving device for the rotation of the washing drum, valves, connections, etc.
Washing drum (separate accessory):
Lined with three layer sinthered, high resistance screening mesh, 0.063 or 0.075 or 0.090 mm opening. This unit includes seating, support and closing ring for the cover. Each model should be fitted with the appropriate cover (see Accessories).
Centrifuge: high speed centrifuge for 120 mm diameter cup, complete with safety switch.
Condenser: Stainless steel tank complete with cooling coil for condensation of solvent vapour during the drying operation.
Forced air circulation pump:for drying aggregate and filler.
Recovery/distillation unit: double chamber, one used as a reservoir. The distillation chamber comprises a base and upper heater providing solvent recovery up to approx. 30 litres/hour, and cooling coils above the chamber incorporated in the cover. Both chambers are fitted with drain valves.
Sampling device for Rotary evaporation: a fast connection for the Rotary evaporator flask for bitumen solution collection is also available. See Accessories 75-PV5X100.
7″ Touchscreen control panel: for controlling and operating the machine.
Balance option: for the accurate measurement of asphalt samples model 75-PV50A25 only).
Water cooling system: the machines have to be connected to a suitable water cooling system which is not included and have to be ordered separately. See Accessories.
Safety features: The machines stops immediately if a lack of water, electric motor malfuncions etc. are detected and the reason for the stoppage is shown on the control panel display. The doors are locked when the test is running.
