Vacuum Viscometer Bath

Standard: ASTM D2171 - IP 222 - EN 12596 - AASHTOT 202

This test method covers procedures for the determination of viscosity of asphalt (bitumen) by vacuum capillary viscometers at 60°C. It is applicable to materials having viscosities in the range from 0.0036 to over 20,000 Pa.

The Testform Vacuum System (TVS) is designed to offer a precise preselected negative pressure, i.e. - 300 mm Hg for ASTM D2171. The systems range offers 20 .. 320mmHg [30 .. 430mBar]. An internal pump provides a vacuum that can be set using the up/down key on the front panel. The setpoint is stored in memory and automatically set after power-up. Internal pneumatics regulate the vacuum around this set point. In case of leakage or volume fluctuations, the electronic feedback system will maintain the pre-set vacuum. A simple menu offers easy calibration for zero and span when a calibrated reference vacuum meter is available. Via this menu, readout in mBar or PSI can be selected.

In asphalt laboratories, the TVS may be used in conjunction with Cannon-Manning, Asphalt Institute, and Modified Koppers Vacuum Viscometers for measurement of highly viscous materials such as asphalt cement at 60°C (140°F) according to ASTM D2171. The TVS also is useful in other laboratory systems where accurate measurement and control of vacuum is required.

One of the main advantages of the TVS is the extremely small footprint compared to the few other vacuum systems available in the market, saving important workbench space. The system further offers high precision and a feedback regulation on the vacuum. This control keeps the vacuum within 0.5 mm Hg of its set point.