Accelerated Polishing Machine, BS/EN Compliant

Advanced Accelerated Polishing Machine: Precision Aggregate Wear Testing

The Accelerated Polishing Machine offers a highly efficient and accurate method for determining the polished stone value (PSV) of aggregates, a critical factor in assessing their resistance to wear and ensuring road safety. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of ASTM D3319/AASHTO T 279 and BS 812/EN 1097-8 standards, this robust machine is essential for quality control in asphalt and concrete road construction.

How it Works:

The machine simulates real-world road conditions by subjecting aggregate samples to intense polishing. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Sample Preparation: Crushed aggregate pieces, specifically sized between 3/8—1/2in (9.5—12.7mm), are meticulously bonded into fourteen curved segments using a specialized resin.
2. Continuous Surface Creation: These segments are then securely clamped to a 16in (406mm) diameter "road wheel," forming a continuous, uniform aggregate surface that is 1-3/4in (44.5mm) wide.
3. Simulated Wear: During testing, the road wheel rotates at a precisely controlled speed of 320 ±5rpm. An 8in (203mm) diameter rubber-tired wheel is brought into loaded contact with the aggregate surface, applying a constant force of 88lbf (391N) via a mechanical lifting device.
4. Abrasive Action: Simultaneously, a carefully metered flow of silicon carbide grit abrasive, along with water from a gravity-fed tank (controlled by a calibrated flow meter), is continuously introduced to the contact area. This creates a realistic abrasive and polishing action.
5. Automated Testing: Tests are automatically terminated by a preset revolution counter, ensuring consistent and repeatable results without constant supervision.
6. Friction Value Determination: After the polishing cycle, the polished aggregate segments are removed, and their friction values are precisely measured using a Pendulum Skid Tester (sold separately), providing the critical PSV data.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Dual Standard Compliance: Fully compliant with both ASTM D3319/AASHTO T 279 and BS 812/EN 1097-8, making it suitable for a wide range of international testing requirements.
• Realistic Wear Simulation: Accurately replicates the abrasive and polishing effects of vehicle tires on road aggregates, providing dependable data for material selection.
• Precision Control: Features a high-quality TEFC motor driving the road wheel via an adjustable timing belt, ensuring consistent rotation speed.
• Automated Operation: The integrated revolution counter and automatic shut-off enhance efficiency and testing accuracy.
• Durable Construction: Built with a robust welded steel frame on adjustable pads for long-term stability and performance in laboratory environments.
• Optimized Abrasive Delivery: Includes a specialized grit feeder and a Goodyear pneumatic-tired wheel assembly for consistent abrasive application.
• Integrated Water System: Gravity-fed water tank with a calibrated flow meter ensures controlled wetting of the testing area.
• Comprehensive Package: Supplied with essential accessories to begin testing immediately.

Included Items:

• Gilson Accelerated Polishing Machine main unit
• Two Specimen Molds for aggregate preparation
• Two Mold Plates
• Required Feeders for abrasive and water
• Goodyear Pneumatic Wheel Assemblies
• Wrenches for maintenance
• Adjustable Mounting Pads for stability
• Detailed Operating Instructions

Technical Specifications:

• Product Dimensions: 30 x 28 x 42in (762 x 711 x 1067mm), WxDxH (approximate)
• Aggregate Size: 3/8—1/2in (9.5—12.7mm)
• Road Wheel Speed: 320 ±5rpm
• Load on Road Wheel: 88lbf (391N)
• Abrasive Type: Silicon Carbide Grit (approximately 10lb (4.5kg) required per ASTM/AASHTO test, ordered separately)
• Water Supply: Gravity-fed from included tank

Ensure the safety and longevity of your pavements by accurately evaluating aggregate performance with the Accelerated Polishing Machine.