Optimisation of the setting-up time with intelligent software, temperature control with an integrated temperature cabinet
Bending tests are widely used for measuring the stiffness modulus and assessing the fatigue resistance of asphaltic paving materials. The two-point bending test on trapezoidal specimens is, arguably, the repeatable and reproducible bending test method detailed in the relevant EN12697 standards. In this test the specimen is mounted as a vertical cantilever. The base is fixed and the top is moved sinusoidally with a constant displacement amplitude. The trapezoidal shape ensures that the values of bending stress and strain occur away from the ends of the specimen where there are likely to be stress concentrations.
With the Cooper Technology equipment, two trapezoidal specimens can be tested simultaneously and stiffness modulus can be determined at a range of frequencies and temperatures. In the fatigue test the specimens are subjected to a constant strain amplitude at a selected frequency and temperature until the stiffness modulus decreases to a user-selected target level (normally 50 percent of its initial value).
Key Uses
Mixture design
End product specification
Assessment of new materials
Software
• User friendly, intuitive and reliable Windows software developed using LabVIEW
• Specifically written to meet EN 12697-24 Annex A and EN 12697-26 Annex A
• One software package performs both fatigue and complex modulus testing
• The software allows a range of strain amplitudes and frequencies to be tested
• The operator is guided through setting up the samples and performing the test
• Real-time graphs show the force and the deformation as well as the relationship between rigidity and number of cycles
• Software automatically performs frequency and temperature sweeps to save operator's time & easy of use
• Stored test data can be analysed and compared with other test data utilising a spreadsheet package
• Utilities are included for transducer check, diagnostic routines and calibration
Calibration & Maintenance
Calibration, Annual Service and Maintenance Contracts are available for this device.
Note: This device should be checked and calibrated annually.