The NCAT Asphalt Content Furnace, developed in conjunction with the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT), set the industry standard for determining asphalt content by the ignition method. This system was integral to the drafting and passage of ASTM* D6307 and AASHTO T308. A 12-lab round robin field test was conducted by NCAT exclusively with this furnace. Results and proven performance are documented by NCAT.

• Asphalt content of bituminous paving mixtures is accurate to 0.11%
• Accommodates samples up to 5000g

Operating Features

• Automatic mode: endpoint is detected and software ends the test, prints the results and beeps until STOP is pressed to unlock door (in accordance with AMRL specifications)
• Manual mode: endpoint is detected and furnace begins to beep but continues to test until STOP is pressed to unlock door, then and results print
• Furnace software automatically compensates for weight change due to sample and basket assembly temperature change
• Compensation is computed for each sample load tested (i.e, a fixed number is not assigned to a given range of load sizes)
• Positive or negative correction factors are accepted for use with mixes containing hydrated lime
• Endpoint within 0.01% of the sample weight is automtically detected
• Sample stability is reached once endpoint criterion is met for three consecutive minutes during the test
• Endpoint sensitivity is adjustable from 0.01% to 0.5%
• Software computes test results as calibrated asphalt content per total weight of HMA sample or bitumen ratio per weight of dry aggregate
• 24-hour/7-day timer can be programmed to preheat furnace
• RS-232 port provides data interface with a PC for graphical data analysis