Pressure Aging Vessel

Pressure Aging Vessel

Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV)

The Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) is designed to simulate long-term oxidative aging of asphalt binders using heated, pressurized air. Built with an ASME-code and CE-marked stainless steel pressure vessel, it features a durable, powder-coated stainless steel cabinet with encased band heaters and integrated pressure measurement control.

The latest PAV4 model offers enhanced performance with a recovery time of under 20 minutes, compliance with ASTM, AASHTO, and EN 14769 standards, and precise temperature control powered by a platinum RTD device. Safety is prioritized with a pressure relief valve and high-temperature thermal shutdown as standard features.

The PAV4 includes a front-facing USB port for storing test data and software updates. It is operated via an industrial-grade touchscreen controller, simplifying the testing process into three easy steps: press the heat button, insert specimens when prompted, and press the age button. The system operates at 2.1mPa (304psi) with a programmable temperature range of 50°C–150°C and a resolution of 0.1°C.

The stainless steel cabinet measures 27.5 x 18 x 30 inches (699 x 457 x 762mm) and comes with ten stainless steel TFOT Specimen Pans, an anodized aluminum specimen holder with a lifting handle, and a Specimen Handling Tool. Additional pans can be ordered individually or in sets of 10. Compressed air (minimum 340psi/2.34mPa) is required for operation. The unit is supplied with a regulator and NIST Traceable Certificate, though compressed air must be provided by the user.

Key Features:

• Touchscreen interface for simple, efficient operation
• Easy-to-use three-step oxidative aging process with minimal training required
• Web-based remote control via mobile devices
• Meets ASTM, AASHTO, and BS EN 14769 standards
• Precise temperature control with a platinum resistance temperature detector
• Built-in safety features, including a pressure relief valve and thermal shutdown

Included Items:

• Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV4)
• NIST Traceable Certificate
• Industrial-grade specimen holder
• 10 Stainless Steel TFOT Specimen Pans
• Specimen Handling Tool

Specifications:

• Pressure Rating: 2.1mPa (304psi)
• Sample Capacity: 10 TFOT specimen trays (included)
• Temperature Range: Programmable from 50°C to 150°C (recommended operating range 80°C–115°C)
• Resolution: 0.1°C
• Electrical Requirements: 208–240V, 50/60Hz, 10 Amps, 1 Phase
• Dimensions: 27.5 x 18 x 30 inches (699 x 457 x 762mm) WxDxH
• Net Weight: 290 lbs. (130 kg)

Standards Met:

AASHTO R 28, ASTM D6521, BS EN 14769