Method of Softening point test of bitumen Ring and ball test IS 1205 1978

Method of Softening point test of bitumen Ring and ball test IS 1205 1978

Method of Softening point test of bitumen Ring and ball test IS 1205 1978

1. Ring and ball apparatus (Steel balls-two numbers each of 9.5 mm diameter weighing 3.5 ± 0.05 g.Brass rings-two numbers each having depth of 6.4 mm. The inside diameter at bottom and top is 15.9 mm and 17.5 mm respectively.)
2. Thermometer.
3. Glycerin.
4. Thermo statically controlled water bath.
5. Stirrer.
6. Hot air over.

Preparation of test sample for Softening point test :

Heat the bitumen and tested to a temperature between 750  Degree Celsius to 1000  Degree Celsius.Stir it continuously until it is completely fluid and free from air bubbles and water. 

Test Procedure :

1. Heat the rings of ‘Ring and Ball’ apparatus to 750   Degree Celsius to 1000  Degree Celsius.
2. Ring coated with glycerin and Place these on a metal plate.
3. Fill the rings with the molten bitumen to give a little excess over the level of ring when cooled.
4. Assemble the apparatus with rings, thermometer, ball guides in position and fill the beaker with water 50 mm above the upper surface of rings at 50  Degree Celsius. Maintain the 50   Degree Celsius temperature for 15 minutes.
5. Place the balls by force in each ball guides.
6. Apply Heat the bath with continuous stirring at a uniform rate of 5+/-0.50 C per minute.
7. As the temperature increases the bituminous material softens and the balls sink through the rings.carrying a portion of the material with it.
8. Note the temperature when any of the steel balls with bituminous coating touches the bottom plate.

Test results shall not differ from mean by more than the following:

for 40 to 60  Degree Celsius  –  Repeatability –   1.0 Degree Celsius
for 61 to 80  Degree Celsius  –  Repeatability-    1.5 Degree Celsius
for 81 to 100 Degree Celsius   –  Repeatability-    2.0 Degree Celsius

Test Format :