Asphalt Pavement Analyzer (APA)

Asphalt Pavement Analyzer (APA) by Pavement Technology

The Asphalt Pavement Analyzer (APA) by Pavement Technology is a state-of-the-art, three-wheel, multi-function Asphalt Wheel Tracker designed for precise evaluation of rutting, fatigue cracking, and moisture susceptibility in both hot and cold asphalt mixes. This highly versatile equipment is fully compliant with AASHTO methods T 234 Hamburg Test (using solid wheels) and AASHTO T 340 APA Rut Test (using concave wheels), making it an essential tool for pavement engineers and researchers.

Key Features & Capabilities

Advanced Testing Environment The APA features an environmentally controlled chamber capable of testing samples in both dry and submerged conditions. Its exclusive high-pressure feature generates 250 psi or more, enabling advanced testing of mix designs for demanding applications such as airport runways and taxiways.

Unique Drive System The APA's innovative drive system allows for the simultaneous testing of multiple samples at different speeds and load rates. This system accommodates three rectangular slab or beam specimens or six cylindrical specimens at the same time. Samples can include Gyratory, Marshall, or vibratory beam specimens molded in the lab or field cores cut from existing pavement.

High Precision Measurements In a single pass, the APA can collect five or more measurements on a beam specimen and three or more on a cylindrical specimen. The system's exceptional accuracy calculates data to 0.00001mm, ensuring reliable and reproducible results.

Low Temperature Fatigue Testing The APA includes a built-in chiller for low-temperature fatigue testing on beam specimens. Optional equipment for studded wheel and fatigue testing at temperatures as low as -5°C includes a cold plate, molds, studded wheels, and dedicated software.

Microsurfacing/Slurry Seal Testing For those requiring microsurfacing or slurry seal testing, optional equipment including molds, rubber wheels, and software is available, further extending the APA's versatility.

Advanced Control System Operation is managed by a PLC-based system with the latest Gen 5 Software, which controls all functions and collects data on a PC. Measurements are plotted and displayed in both graphical and numerical formats, providing a comprehensive view of testing results. The drive system operates the wheel tracking assembly from 0 to 60 cycles (120 passes) per minute, with both speed and stroke adjustable for Hamburg Testing.

Flexible Loading System Wheel loading is applied with controlled contact pressure on beam or cylindrical samples for rutting, fatigue, and moisture damage testing. Independent pneumatic cylinders generate adjustable loads to each of the three wheels, ensuring accurate and consistent contact pressure on specimens.

User-Friendly Operation The APA is designed for ease of use. A sliding tray facilitates the loading and positioning of samples, while toggle clamps secure the tray against the frame. The sample holding assembly quickly and accurately positions the sample molds under the loading wheels for testing.

Temperature Control Heating strips and a cooling unit, regulated by a microprocessor-based controller, maintain the temperature of the main chamber within the range of 5° to 80°C ±1.5°C (41° to 176°F), ensuring accurate temperature control during testing.

Submerged Testing Capability The APA features a 30-gallon reservoir that can be raised with a pneumatic cylinder and flooded to a constant water level over the test specimen for submerged testing. A weir valve allows water to drain back to the 35-gallon stainless steel storage tank, where water temperature is maintained from ambient to 80°C (176°F).

Sample Pre-Conditioning Sample Pre-Conditioning Shelves in the base of the APA bring three beam or six cylindrical specimens up to the desired test temperature before testing, ensuring accurate and reliable results.

Included Items

• Asphalt Pavement Analyzer

• Concave wheels (set of three) for rut and moisture testing

• Solid wheels (set of three) for fatigue and Hamburg testing

• High Density Polyethylene Molds for rut testing (set of three)

• High Density Polyethylene Molds for moisture testing (set of three)

• High Density Polyethylene Molds for fatigue testing (set of three)

• High Density Polyethylene Molds for Hamburg test (set of three)

• Three 3/4in (19mm) high-pressure rubber hoses

Technical Specifications

• Electrical: 208V / 60Hz / 40 Amps

• Product Dimensions: 35 x 70 x 80in (889 x 1778 x 2032mm), WxDxH

• Net Weight: 3,000lb (1,357kg)

• Estimated Shipping Weight: 3,230lb (1,465.13kg)

• Air Supply Required: Clean, dry compressed air at 120psi (8.3bar) and 8CFM (226LPM)

Standards Compliance

• AASHTO T 324

• AASHTO T 340

• Tex-242-F

The Asphalt Pavement Analyzer by Pavement Technology represents the pinnacle of asphalt mix design testing equipment, offering a comprehensive and versatile solution for pavement engineers and researchers worldwide. With its advanced features, precise measurements, and user-friendly design, the APA is an indispensable tool for ensuring the quality and durability of asphalt pavements.