Rainhart Vacuum Degassing Oven (VDO)

Rainhart Vacuum Degassing Oven (VDO) — Precise Asphalt Binder Degassing

The Rainhart Vacuum Degassing Oven (VDO) is a dedicated solution for removing entrapped air from asphalt binder samples after aging in a Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV). Proper degassing is critical before conducting rheological and physical tests to ensure accurate and repeatable results. The VDO fully complies with ASTM D6521, AASHTO R28, and EN 14769 standards.

Unlike conventional vacuum ovens that measure air temperature inside the chamber, this vacuum degassing oven measures temperature directly at the aluminum support for sample tins. This approach compensates for the poor heat transfer properties of vacuum environments and provides more reliable degassing control. The result is faster bubble removal and improved consistency in asphalt binder testing using laboratory asphalt testing equipment available from Certified MTP’s asphalt testing product range.

Advanced Degassing Technology for Asphalt Binder Testing

The VDO is engineered specifically for laboratories performing pressure-aged asphalt binder preparation. Its integrated vacuum system rapidly evacuates air while maintaining precise temperature stability throughout the process. This makes it ideal for preparing samples prior to tests such as BBR, DSR, penetration, ductility, and softening point analysis.

For laboratories already using the Rainhart Vacuum Degassing Oven (VDO), this design ensures full compliance with industry testing protocols while reducing operator intervention and error.

Vacuum Degassing Oven Features

• Fully automated tabletop vacuum degassing oven
• Three operating modes: Fully Automatic, Semi-Automatic, and Manual
• Platinum RTD temperature measurement for high accuracy
• Automatic pressure release at the end of the test cycle
• Double vessel design supporting 4 or 8 asphalt sample tins
• Fast vacuum system to reach setpoints efficiently
• USB port for software updates and data storage
• Includes (8) small tins and (4) large tins

These features support consistent asphalt sample preparation in laboratories performing routine and advanced material testing.

User-Friendly Design & Monitoring

The VDO features a rugged stainless steel cabinet with a heat-resistant glass viewing window, allowing operators to visually monitor the degassing process. A menu-driven digital or touchscreen controller displays real-time data for temperature, vacuum pressure, and process stage.

The oven can also be operated remotely via an ethernet connection, making it suitable for modern labs managing multiple asphalt laboratory testing instruments from a centralized workspace.

Technical Specifications Overview

• Voltage: 115V or 230V
• Frequency: 50 Hz
• Temperature Range: Ambient to 200 °C (392 °F)
• Vacuum Pressure: 15 ± 1.0 kPa (4.4 in Hg)
• Vacuum Chamber Size: 20.25 × 14.25 × 11 in
• Power Consumption: 600 W
• Weight: Approx. 59 lb (26.8 kg)

These specifications make the VDO suitable for preparing pressure-aged binder samples in accordance with global asphalt testing standards.

Applications & Benefits

The Vacuum Degassing Oven is widely used in:

• Asphalt production laboratories
• Construction materials testing facilities
• Research and development centers
• Quality control labs handling asphalt binder testing equipment

By ensuring rapid and complete air removal, the VDO improves test accuracy, reduces re-runs, and supports compliance with ASTM and AASHTO requirements.

Why Choose the Rainhart VDO from Certified MTP?

• Designed specifically for asphalt binder degassing
• Accurate temperature measurement at the sample support
• Automated operation with safety controls
• Durable stainless-steel construction
• Backed by Certified MTP’s extensive range of asphalt testing equipment