Operating and Usage Instructions for the Asphalt Softening Point Tester

　　Asphalt Softening Point Tester Operating Procedure:
　　◆ Connect the power cord and press the “Power” button; the indicator light will turn on.
　　◆Select the measurement range according to the specimen specifications, attach or remove weights on the pendulum arm, and adjust the damping handwheel if necessary.
　　◆Install the corresponding jaws into the upper and lower jaw holders according to the specimen switch and dimensions.
　　◆ Roll and secure the recording paper onto the printer’s dedicated spool.
　　◆ Start the oil pump and open the oil valve to raise the platform by about 10 mm, then close the oil supply valve. If the platform is already in the raised position, there is no need to start the oil pump first; simply close the oil supply valve.
　　◆Clamp one end of the specimen in the upper jaw. For models equipped with a hydraulic chuck, press the “Tighten” button on the control box to clamp the specimen.
　　◆ With the platform already raised and both the supply and return oil valves closed, adjust the pointer to align with the dial’s zero mark. (Note: This operation should be performed under non-pressurized conditions.)
　　◆ Start the lifting motor to adjust the tensile testing space and securely clamp the specimen vertically. For models equipped with hydraulic grips, press the “Lower Tight” button on the control box to securely clamp the specimen vertically.
　　◆ Lower the drawing pen of the stylus to enter the drawing preparation state.
　　◆ Slowly open the oil supply valve at the loading rate specified in the test requirements to perform the loading test. After the specimen fractures, close the oil valve. If there is a long interval between successive test groups, the softening point tester should also be stopped.
　　Verification method:
　　◆ Use a dial caliper to measure the distance between the lower edge of the support ring of the measuring instrument holder and the support plate.
　　◆ Use a steel ruler to measure the dimensions of the heat-resistant glass beaker for the tester.
　　◆ Use an outside micrometer to measure the three diameters of the steel ball that are mutually perpendicular, then use an analytical balance to determine its weight.
　　◆Check whether the steel balls and sample ring surfaces are rusted or damaged.
　　◆ Use an outside micrometer to measure the dimensions of each part of the sample ring shown in the diagram.
　　Precautions:
　　◆ The instrument must be handled and stored with care to avoid damaging glassware and thermometers.
　　◆ After each test is completed, the instrument must be wiped clean.
　　Experimental steps:
　　◆ Use of the Monitor and Keyboard: The monitor consists of two sets, one on the left displaying time and the other on the right displaying temperature. Press the “Results” key to sequentially display the test results and the average value. Press the “Stir” key to start the magnetic stirrer; press the “Stir” key again to stop stirring. The stirring speed can be adjusted using the “Stir” button on the rear cover.
　　◆ During the test, the water or glycerin must be clear and transparent, free of any impurities; otherwise, it will affect the optical path detection.
　　◆ Add water or glycerin up to the specified graduation mark.
　　◆ The heater must never be operated without water.