NCAT Oven: Asphalt Content Furnace with Embedded Heating Elements
The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace (also known as an asphalt ignition oven) has an internal electronic balance that automatically monitors the sample weight throughout the ignition process, graphical data analysis savings and the technician time and increasing productivity in the lab. Just enter the sample weight and calibration factor for your mix design, put the sample in the furnace chamber and hit “start”. When the test is complete the system will automatically stop the test and print the results. A periodic “beep” will let you know the test is complete. Hit “stop” and the chamber door will unlock and you can remove the sample and let it cool for gradation analysis.
Asphalt binder ignition testing is an environmentally friendly and cost effective way to determine asphalt content of mixtures and ensure high quality and economical asphalt product. Asphalt binder ignition testing is faster than solvent extraction and offers reduced testing costs. A 1,200-1,800g sample of asphalt can be tested in 30-45 minutes with the NCAT Furnace. The unit can test up to samples up to 5,000g at extended test times, making it suitable for high-volume testing. Asphalt binder ignition testing eliminates the cost of solvent, the secondary cost of solvent disposal and the safety concerns of handling solvent in the lab.
NCAT Furnace software has automatic or manual test modes. In automatic mode the software will stop the test when the endpoint is reached, print the results and “beep”. It will continue to beep until “stop” is pressed to unlock the door. In manual mode the unit will “beep” when the endpoint is reached but will continue to test until “stop” is pressed, then print the results and unlock the door. Positive or negative correction factors can be entered to correct for unique mix characteristics. Weight change due to sample and basket assembly temperature change is automatically compensated for each sample tested. The automatically detected endpoint of the test cycle is reached when the weight loss from the sample is less than a user established setpoint between 0.01% and 0.5% for three consecutive readings. Test results are calculated as asphalt content per total weight of HMA sample or bitumen ratio per weight of dry aggregate to ±0.11%, ensuring accurate results.
The furnace is pre-heated to a setpoint temperature between 450°-650°C (842°-1,202°F). The default is 538°C (1,000°F). The hot-mix asphalt sample is weighed and divided into two screened baskets on a tray assembly. This complete assembly is placed in the chamber on the furnace hearth tray. Once the door is closed and the test started the door will not open until the test is complete. During ignition and burn-out the volatiles released are further oxidized in a high temperature afterburner with a patented ceramic filter heated to 750°C (1,382°F). This has been shown to reduce emissions by up to 95%, ensuring consistent outcomes.
The furnace controller has a 24/7 timing function that can be programmed to preheat the furnace to any time the operator sets. A secure, automatic door-locking system provides operator safety and test integrity during critical burn-off times. The modular, embedded heating elements provide extended service life and easy, inexpensive replacement. An RS-232 port for data interface with a personal computer for graphical data analysis.
The NCAT furnace comes with the internal electronic Balance, Hearth Tray, six Fuses and an operation manual. The Starter Kit is required and includes; two Sample Basket Assemblies, Transport Handle, Aluminum Cool Down Plate, Cool Down Safety Cage, four rolls of Printer Paper, Basket Brush and Motor Lubricant. For added safety the kit includes Head Gear with Face Shield and Heat Resistant Gloves. Order additional Sample Basket Assemblies for quicker sample preparation and more sample throughput.
Chamber Dimensions: 14x14x14in (35.5x35.5x35.5mm), WxDxH.
Overall Dimensions: 21.75x26.63x40.5in (54.3x65.1x102.9mm), WxDxH.
Electric: 240V/60Hz, 1-Ph, 20/27 Amp
NCAT Furnaces are not supplied with power cords and must be hard-wired directly to a suitable electrical supply or supplied with a cord and plug by the user.
Meets Test Methods:AASHTO T308 ASTM D 6307
Overview and Features
The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace is a laboratory instrument that determine asphalt content of bituminous paving mixtures by the ignition method to determine asphalt. This furnace has advanced electronics with an internal electronic balance that monitors the sample weight during the ignition process, so you get precise measurements and save technician time. The furnace also has a high temperature afterburner that reduces emissions by up to 95% during burn-out, making it an environmentally friendly solution. The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace has embedded heating elements that provide extended life and are easy to replace, so it’s reliable for the long term. And with manual mode you can press “stop” to unlock the door and print the results, so you have more flexibility.
Applications and Uses
The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace is used in construction, transportation and research. It’s primary use is to determine asphalt content of bituminous paving mixtures which is critical to the quality and longevity of roads and highways. It’s also used to test asphalt content of asphalt emulsions and cutback asphalts. In research and development the NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace is used to test new asphalt materials and evaluate the effect of different additives on asphalt properties to advance asphalt technology.
Benefits and Advantages
The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace has many benefits over traditional methods of determining asphalt content. One of the biggest is fast and accurate results. The ignition method to determine asphalt is faster than solvent extraction and the internal electronic balance monitors the sample weight. The high temperature afterburner reduces emissions by up to 95% during burn-out so it’s an environmentally friendly option. The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace also has manual mode where you can press “stop” to unlock the door and print the results so you have more flexibility.
Technical Specifications and Maintenance
The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace has several technical specifications to ensure performance and longevity. Operating temperature range is 392 to 1202°F (200 to 650°C) and power consumption is 4800 watts. The internal electronic balance has an accuracy of ±0.1 gram and the sample load tested is 1200 and samples up to 5,000g. The refractory embedded heating elements provide extended life and are easy to replace so it’s reliable for the long term. Regular maintenance is required to keep the furnace in optimal condition. The furnace software compensates for weight changes due to temperature fluctuations and correction factors can be entered for unique mix characteristics. The data interface allows graphical data analysis and the manual mode gives you more flexibility.
Features
The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace is designed to provide accurate and efficient determination of asphalt content in paving mixtures. Here are some key features and benefits of the furnace:
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Larger Sample Testing: The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace accommodates larger sample testing, reducing labor and costs. This feature allows for the testing of bigger sample sizes, making it ideal for high-volume testing applications. By handling sample loads of up to 5,000g, it ensures comprehensive analysis and reliable results.
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Ignition Method: Utilizing the ignition method to determine asphalt content, the furnace offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to solvent extraction. This method eliminates the need for solvents and their disposal, significantly reducing testing costs and environmental impact.
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Refractory Embedded Heating Elements: The furnace features refractory embedded heating elements, which provide extended service life and are easy to replace. This design ensures efficient and effective operation, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
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Manual Mode: For greater control over the testing process, the furnace can be operated in manual mode. This feature is particularly useful for applications requiring specific testing parameters, allowing technicians to tailor the process to their needs.
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Data Interface: Equipped with a data interface, the furnace facilitates graphical data analysis. This feature enables users to easily analyze and interpret test results, aiding in informed decision-making and enhancing overall productivity.
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Sample Load Tested: Capable of testing sample loads of up to 5,000g, the furnace is ideal for high-volume testing applications. This capacity ensures that even large samples can be accurately analyzed, providing reliable data for quality control.
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Automatically Detected Sample Stability: The furnace automatically detects sample stability, ensuring that test results are accurate and reliable. This feature enhances the precision of the testing process, contributing to consistent and dependable outcomes.
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High-Temperature Afterburner: Featuring a high-temperature afterburner, the furnace reduces ignition process emissions by 95%. This environmentally friendly feature ensures that the furnace operates with minimal impact on the environment.
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Calibrated Asphalt Content: The furnace provides calibrated asphalt content results, ensuring accuracy and reliability. This feature is crucial for maintaining high standards in asphalt testing and quality control.
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Bituminous Paving Mixtures: Specifically designed to test bituminous paving mixtures, the furnace is ideal for applications in the construction and transportation industries. Its ability to accurately determine asphalt content in these mixtures is essential for ensuring the quality and longevity of roads and highways.
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Ignition Test: The furnace uses the ignition test method to determine asphalt content, a widely accepted and reliable method. This approach ensures that the results are consistent with industry standards and expectations.
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Solvent Extraction: By eliminating the need for solvent extraction, the furnace reduces both the cost and environmental impact of testing. This feature makes it a more sustainable and economical choice for asphalt content determination.
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Extended Service Life: With refractory embedded heating elements that provide extended service life, the furnace is designed for long-term reliability. This feature reduces downtime and maintenance costs, ensuring continuous and efficient operation.
Overall, the NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace is a reliable and efficient solution for determining asphalt content in paving mixtures. Its key features and benefits make it an ideal choice for high-volume testing applications in the construction and transportation industries.