Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus for Bitumen Softening Point Testing

The Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus is designed to determine the softening point of bitumen in full compliance with EN 1427, ASTM D36, and AASHTO T53 standards. The system automatically measures the bath temperature using a high-precision electronic sensor while maintaining the specified heating rate of 5°C/min throughout the test.

An electronically controlled stirrer with an adjustable speed range of 0–160 rpm ensures uniform temperature distribution within the bath. The instrument can test two specimens simultaneously, automatically detecting and calculating the softening point of each sample independently for accurate and repeatable results.

Key Features

• Automatic softening point determination
• Microprocessor-controlled operation
• Automatic bath temperature measurement
• High-precision electronic temperature probe
• Simultaneous testing of two specimens
• Independent evaluation of each sample
• Programmable test parameters
• Adjustable magnetic stirrer (0–160 rpm)
• Automatic heating rate of 5°C/min
• User-friendly touchscreen display
• Internal data storage
• Printable test reports
• Optical sensor detection system
• Integrated electric heater
• High accuracy and excellent repeatability

Standards

• EN 1427
• EN 13398
• EN 13589
• ASTM D36
• ASTM D113
• AASHTO T53

Technical Specifications

Available Models

Automatic Softening Point Measurement

The Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus determines the softening point temperature of bitumen using the internationally recognized Ring and Ball method. During the test, electronic sensors continuously monitor the bath temperature while the microprocessor automatically controls heating, stirring, and temperature rise.

Once the specimens reach the softening point, the instrument automatically records and displays the results, reducing operator involvement and improving test consistency.

Intelligent Control System

The apparatus features a microprocessor-based control system with programmable operating modes for different testing requirements.

Users can select test procedures for both distilled water and glycerol baths, while all commands, parameters, and test results are managed through the intuitive touchscreen interface. Test data can be stored in the internal memory and printed for laboratory documentation and quality assurance.

Main Components

The Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus includes:

• Electronic Control Unit
• Temperature Probe
• Optical Sensors
• Electric Heater
• Magnetic Stirrer
• Glass Beaker
• Ring Holder
• 10 Steel Balls
• 10 Rings

Applications

The Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus is widely used for:

• Bitumen softening point determination
• Asphalt binder testing
• Bitumen quality control
• Asphalt testing laboratories
• Highway engineering laboratories
• Road construction laboratories
• Construction materials laboratories
• University laboratories
• Research and development laboratories

Why Choose the BESMAK Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus?

The BESMAK Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus combines precision temperature control, intelligent automation, and reliable electronic measurement to deliver highly accurate softening point results.

Its dual-specimen testing capability, programmable control system, automatic result calculation, and integrated reporting functions significantly improve laboratory efficiency while ensuring full compliance with international testing standards. Designed for routine quality control and research applications, it offers exceptional repeatability, ease of operation, and long-term reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus?

An Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus is a laboratory instrument used to determine the softening point of bitumen by automatically performing the Ring and Ball test according to international standards.

How many specimens can be tested simultaneously?

The instrument can test two specimens simultaneously, providing independent measurements for each sample.

What heating rate does the instrument use?

The apparatus automatically maintains the standard heating rate of 5°C per minute throughout the test.

What is the stirrer speed range?

The electronic magnetic stirrer is adjustable from 0 to 160 rpm, ensuring uniform temperature distribution in the heating bath.

Can the instrument store test results?

Yes. The system features internal data storage and supports printing of test reports for documentation and quality control purposes.

Which standards does the Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus comply with?

The instrument complies with the following international standards:

• EN 1427
• EN 13398
• EN 13589
• ASTM D36
• ASTM D113
• AASHTO T53

What accessories are included with the apparatus?

The standard package includes:

• Temperature Probe
• Optical Sensors
• Electric Heater
• Magnetic Stirrer
• Glass Beaker
• Ring Holder
• 10 Steel Balls
• 10 Rings

Where is the Automatic Ring and Ball Apparatus commonly used?

The apparatus is widely used in asphalt testing laboratories, highway authorities, construction materials laboratories, universities, research institutes, and quality control laboratories for routine bitumen softening point determination.