The Rotavapor Apparatus System recovers asphalt from extraction solvents with minimal changes to asphalt properties, allowing further testing. The distillation flask containing the solvent/asphalt mix adjusts to rotate at the specified 15° angle while immersed in the heated oil bath. The heated vapors are drawn under partial vacuum over the cooling condenser, separating out the solvent into a recovery flask. A feed inlet tube permits continuous or intermittent sample additions to the distillation flask.
The Rotavapor integrates the control and monitoring of specified temperature, rotational motor speed, and vacuum generation into a single system. The precision motor permits flask rotation speeds from 20—280rpm, and a built-in quickaction jack raises or immerses the flask in the oil bath. The oil bath has 180 ±2°C (356°F) temperature capability, and features a large display showing both actual and set-point temperatures. Vapor temperature and rotation speed of the flask are displayed continuously during operation. Vacuum is supplied by a four-head, PTFE diaphragm pump with a flow rate of 109ft³ (3.1m³) per hour with ultimate vacuum below 0.06in Hg (2 mbar). The vacuum controller has a USB interface for transfer of vapor and bath temperature, as well as pressure to a user-supplied PC.
The Rotavapor Apparatus System consists of the Rotavapor® evaporator equipped with a diagonal condenser assembly, 1L distillation and solvent recovery flasks, high-temperature oil bath, and vacuum pump with precision electronic regulator. Optional Distillation Flask, and Recovery Flasks, both with 2L capacities, can be purchased to follow ASTM D 5404 suggestions. Silicone Bath Oil is purchased separately, and is rated SWS-101 with flash point above 215°C (420°F). The complete extraction and recovery process described in AASTO T 319 also requires the Filterless Centrifuge, listed and purchased separately.
Optional Recirculating Chiller circulates coolant to condenser for more efficient operation. Recovery is accelerated, often allowing two to three times more samples to be processed in the same time period. Temperature range is 14°—104°F (-10°—40°C) ±0.2°F (0.1°C). Reservoir capacity is 1.1gal (4.2L). 3/4hp compressor operates on 230V/60Hz, drawing 12 amps. Models are CSA/CE approved.
Meets Test Methods:
AASHTO T 319
ASTM D 5404