Automatic Ring & Ball Tester ASTM D36 is a laboratory instrument designed for the determination of the softening point of bituminous materials in accordance with ASTM D36. It is widely used in asphalt testing laboratories, road construction material quality control, and petroleum bitumen production facilities where accurate thermal property assessment is essential.
The test method measures the temperature at which a bitumen sample softens sufficiently to allow a steel ball to fall a specified distance under controlled conditions. This softening point is a key parameter in evaluating the performance characteristics of bitumen, particularly its temperature susceptibility and suitability for road paving and construction applications.
The Automatic Ring & Ball Tester ASTM D36 automates this traditionally manual procedure, ensuring improved repeatability, accuracy, and efficiency. By controlling heating rates and test conditions precisely, the instrument reduces operator variability and enhances consistency across multiple tests.
The system is designed to operate across a wide temperature range from 30 to 157°C (86 to 315°F), allowing it to accommodate a variety of bituminous materials. Depending on the test temperature, different immersion media are used, including distilled water (30 to 80°C), USP glycerine (above 80 to 157°C), or ethylene glycol (30 to 110°C), ensuring accurate thermal transfer and standard-compliant conditions.
By automating the ring-and-ball method, the instrument improves laboratory productivity while maintaining strict adherence to ASTM D36 requirements. This makes it well suited for both routine quality control and research applications in the asphalt and petroleum industries.
Manufactured by Stanhope-Seta, the system reflects a strong focus on precision engineering, reliability, and compliance with international testing standards.
Features include:
