About Ring And Ball Apparatus
Specification:
A ring and ball apparatus specification typically includes components like shouldered brass rings, 9.5mm steel balls, a ball-centering guide, a thermometer, a heat-resistant glass beaker, and a support frame with a sliding plate for placing the rings. The apparatus also requires a controlled heating unit or thermostatic hot plate capable of raising the water temperature at a specific rate, a motorized or manual stirrer, and a bottom plate positioned 25mm below the rings. The entire setup is built to measure the softening point of bituminous materials according to standards such as ASTM D36 or AASHTO T53.
- Steel Balls: Two 9.5mm diameter steel balls, typically weighing 2.5 0.05 grams each.
- Brass Rings: Tapered, shouldered brass rings that hold the bitumen sample.
- Ball-Centering Guides: Devices to hold the steel balls in the center of the rings.
- Support Frame: A frame with a sliding plate to hold the rings and allow for the insertion of a thermometer.
- Glass Beaker: A heat-resistant glass vessel, often about 8.5 cm in internal diameter and 12 cm deep, for the heating bath.
- Thermometer: An ASTM or equivalent thermometer to accurately measure the bath temperature, sometimes requiring calibration.
- Heater/Hot Plate: A thermostatic or electronically controlled heater to provide uniform heating to the bath, sometimes with a microprocessor and auto-tune PID controller.
- Stirrer: A hand or motorized stirrer to ensure even temperature distribution throughout the bath.
- Bottom Plate: A plate positioned 25mm below the rings for the balls to drop onto.
Functional Specifications
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Heating Rate:
The apparatus should be able to heat the bath liquid at a uniform rate, typically 5C per minute, as specified by standards like ASTM D36 or AASHTO T53.
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Ring Support:
The support frame should hold the upper surface of the rings 50mm below the surface of the bath liquid.
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Digital Control:
Modern versions may feature digital controllers for precise temperature setting and monitoring, with accuracy specifications.
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Power Supply:
For electrically operated models, specifications include a 230V AC, single-phase, 50Hz power supply.
The ring and ball apparatus is used in the quality control of bituminous materials to determine their softening point. The softening point is the temperature at which the bitumen sample, loaded with a steel ball, drops a specified distance.
Precision in Bitumen TestingEngineered for accuracy in the determination of bitumen and asphalt softening points, this Ring and Ball Apparatus ensures reliable and repeatable results. Its robust construction supports laboratory professionals in conforming to stringent standards and quality controls.
Superior Build and DurabilityConstructed using corrosion-resistant brass, stainless steel, and heat-resistant glass, the apparatus withstands rigorous laboratory procedures. Its polished finish and resilient components guarantee a long service life, ensuring value for users in research, manufacturing, and quality testing.
Versatile and Standard-CompliantCompliant with IS 1205 and ASTM D36, this device is ideal for laboratories, teaching institutions, and quality assurance applications throughout India. The manual control mode allows precise test procedures, while its compact, bench-top design ensures seamless integration into laboratory setups.
FAQ's of Ring And Ball Apparatus:
Q: How do I use the Ring and Ball Apparatus for determining the softening point of bitumen?
A: Place the rings and balls inside the heat-resistant glass beaker, fill it with the sample, and manually operate the heating source (external, not included). Gradually heat the setup while stirring, and observe the temperature at which the balls pass through the softened bitumen. Record this temperature according to IS 1205 and ASTM D36 standards.
Q: What materials are used in the construction of this apparatus?
A: The apparatus is manufactured from high-quality brass, stainless steel, and heat-resistant glass. These materials contribute to durability, corrosion resistance, and reliable performance throughout repeated test cycles in a laboratory environment.
Q: When should I use the Ring and Ball Apparatus for testing?
A: Use the apparatus whenever you need to determine the softening point of bitumen or asphalt-typically for quality control in construction, asphalt production, or academic research. It is suitable for routine testing in temperature ranges from ambient up to 250C.
Q: Where should the Ring and Ball Apparatus be operated?
A: This device is designed specifically for indoor or laboratory environments with ambient humidity and temperature control. Bench-top mounting ensures stability and safety during operation.
Q: What benefits does this apparatus offer compared to other testing methods?
A: The Ring and Ball Apparatus provides highly accurate and immediate results (1C, 0.1C resolution) through a straightforward manual process. Its compliance with IS 1205 and ASTM D36 offers assurance of consistent, industry-standard results.
Q: How many specimens can be tested simultaneously with this apparatus?
A: The apparatus accommodates two specimens at a time, using two rings and two balls, allowing for parallel and comparative testing to enhance laboratory efficiency.
Q: What is included with the apparatus, and is any external equipment required?
A: The package includes polished brass rings, stainless steel balls, a 600 ml heat-resistant glass beaker, a glass stirring rod, and a complete assembly. However, you will need to provide an external heating source for sample testing.