RING & BALL APPARATUS
HT-724-1 & HT-724-2
Reference Standards: IS 1205, ASTM D36, IP 58
The Ring and Ball Apparatus is used to determine the softening point of bituminous materials, which is defined as the temperature at which the material softens sufficiently to allow a steel ball to fall through a specified distance under controlled heating conditions.
The test is based on the principle that bitumen gradually softens when heated. A sample is poured into brass rings and cooled. The rings are then suspended in a liquid bath (water or glycerin), and steel balls are placed on the sample surface. As temperature increases at a controlled rate, the softened bitumen allows the ball to descend. The temperature at which the ball touches the bottom plate is recorded as the softening point.
This test is essential for evaluating temperature susceptibility and suitability of bitumen for different climatic conditions and pavement applications.
Key Features
- Precision brass rings and steel balls
- Uniform heating bath with controlled temperature rise
- High accuracy thermometer holder
- Stable frame with guided ball movement
- Available in manual and digital variants
Technical Specifications
- Temperature range: Ambient to 150°C (water/glycerin)
- Heating rate: 5°C per minute (controlled)
- Ball weight: Standard steel balls
- Bath material: Stainless steel / brass
- Operation: Manual / Digital (depending on model)
Ordering Information
HT-724-1 Ring and Ball Apparatus
HT-724-2 Ring and Ball Apparatus, Semi-Automatic
Note: Machine supplied with NABL accredited calibration certificates.
