Asphalt testing with SmartPave - accurate, comfortable and user-optimised

SmartPave from Anton Paar is a Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) combined with a unique Peltier heating system for the rheological testing of asphalt and bitumen. It incorporates new and innovative features, like an automatic temperature calibration and a special asphalt chamber, that take asphalt testing to previously unattained levels of accuracy, comfort and ease of use. All required components according to the standard methods are included; the results are in full compliance with various AASHTO, ASTM and DIN EN standards.

Click here for a summary of solutions for rheological bitumen and asphalt testing.

SmartPave is equipped with a temperature control unit based on a unique Peltier heating system with heating elements above and below the sample. Temperature gradients are completely eliminated and the heating and cooling rates are unbelievably fast. Test times are reduced by up to 50%, while reproducibility is improved. It is, for example, very convenient to raise the temperature up to 100°C for cleaning. After the cleaning process is completed, it only takes a few minutes to cool the system back to the filling temperature. Due to the unrivaled asphalt chamber, there is no water flow around the sample, as is still the standard in old fashioned devices. This enables work in a completely dry environment.

Anton Paar’s special rheometer software provides a fully automatic temperature setting routine which guides the user through the grading process, making asphalt grading as easy as it can be. To ensure that the used measuring temperature is correct, SmartPave with the rheometer software also offers an automatic temperature calibration. As soon as the calibration probe is loaded into the instrument, the temperature calibration is done automatically, after the push of a single button.

Due to its versatility and modularity, SmartPave can be used to perform all tests used in modern rheology today. The broad torque range and true stress and strain capabilities allow adjusting the measurements to special needs. Therefore this device is able to handle all future demands, however asphalt test specifications may change in the future, which makes it a long-term investment.

Find more information on asphalt and bitumen measurements in the 'World of Rheology'.