Asphalt Bitumen

DUCTILOMETER REFRIGERATED

Used to determine the bituminous ductility, that is the distance to which a briquette of molten bitumen can be extended under controlled conditions, before breaking. The Ductilometer basically consists of a moving carriage travelling along guide ways.

The ductility of bituminous materials is determined by measuring the elongation before failure of a sample subjected to tensile stress in predetermined conditions of speed and temperature. The distance to which a briquette of molten bitumen can be extended under controlled conditions, before its breaking, the Ductilometer basically consists of a moving carriage travelling along guide ways. The carriage is driven by an electrical motor, inside a large tank which is fitted with digital thermostat, immersion electric heater, cooling coil for cold water circulation and a pump unit. The briquette mould and base late must be ordered separately.

Ductilometers are instruments used to measure the ductility of bituminous materials, like bitumen or asphalt, by determining the distance a briquette of the material can be stretched before it breaks under controlled conditions. This test helps evaluate the material’s ability to stretch and deform under tension, which is crucial for its performance in applications like road paving. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

Purpose of Ductilometers:
  • Determine Bitumen Ductility:
    The primary function is to measure the ductility of bituminous materials, specifically how much they can be elongated before fracturing. 

  • Quality Control:
    Ductility testing helps ensure that bitumen used in road construction and other applications meets specific quality standards. 

  • Performance Evaluation:
    The test provides valuable information about a material’s ability to withstand stresses and strains, which is essential for long-term pavement durability. 

How Ductilometers Work:
  1. 1. Specimen Preparation:
    A standard briquette of the bituminous material is prepared. 

  2. 2. Water Bath:
    The briquette is submerged in a controlled water bath maintained at a specific temperature. 

  3. 3. Controlled Stretching:
    The briquette is slowly pulled apart at a defined rate, usually 5 cm/minute, until it breaks. 

  4. 4. Measurement:
    The distance the briquette elongates before fracturing is measured and recorded as the ductility value. 

Key Factors Influencing Ductility:
  • Temperature: The temperature of the water bath significantly affects the ductility of the bitumen. 
  • Rate of Pull: The speed at which the briquette is stretched also influences the result. 
  • Type of Bitumen: Different types of bitumen have varying ductility characteristics. 
Applications:
  • Road Construction:
    Ductility testing is essential for assessing the quality of bitumen used in asphalt pavements.
  • Pavement Durability:
    Ductility values help engineers predict how well a pavement will withstand traffic loads and environmental factors.
  • Material Quality Control:
    Ductility testing is used to ensure that bitumen used in various applications meets specified standards. 

 

Specifications:

  • Powder coated grey electro galvanised outer case with brushed finish grade 304 S/S interior
  • Insulated with glass wool
  • Thermoregulator on bridge plate with dual pumps and digital temperature control
  • Chain driven ductilometer with engage/dis-engage lever
  • Carriage in S/S
  • Working length of unit is 1500mm
  • Supplied with lid, white perforated base plate and 1 mould
  • Additional moulds with base plates are available at an additional cost
  • Supplied in packing grate for safe transportation 2350mm x 540mm x 1100mm