Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus

MAIN FEATURES

• Microprocessor control
• Automatic programmable test sequences for water or glycerol
• RS 232 serial port for PC or printer
• Large graphic display 240×128 pixel
• Memory up to 50 tests
• Language selection

This advanced microprocessor controlled automatic tester is used to determine the softening point of bitumen using water or glycerol as heating fluid. The softening point is taken by two suitably positioned light barriers and the temperature is measured by a PT100 sensor placed in a central position. During operation a magnetic stirrer with adjustable speed assures temperature uniformity in the vessel. The temperature gradient is strictly maintained throughout the test by the electronic system which conforms to the Standards.

Safety features
The hot plate is automatically turned off at the end of the test. The apparatus is also fitted with an emergency stop button. The test is automatically interrupted if theprobe fails or it is not correctly positioned. The hot plate will not be damaged or affected by possible water or glycerol leakages of water or glycerol, or if the beaker breaks.

Firmware

• Test on boiled distilled or deionized water for softnening point between 30 and 80°C
• Test on glycerol for softening point above 80 and up to 150°C
• Test configuration set-up
• File management
• Date and time
• Operator name, test number, general notes
• Language selection
• Test parameters conforming the type of test: up to 80°C and above 80 up to 150°C, hot plate pre-heating temperature thermocouple calibration
• Magnetic stirrer speed adjustment from 0 to 150 rpm
• Baud rate selection 38400 for PC and 9600 for printer