Universal Penetrometer

The Universal Penetrometer is used to determine the penetration grade (consistency/hardness) of bitumen — a fundamental classification and quality-control parameter. A standard needle, under a specified load, is allowed to penetrate a bitumen sample maintained at a set temperature (typically 25°C) for a fixed time (5 seconds); the depth of penetration, measured in tenths of a millimetre, gives the penetration value. The 'Universal' designation typically indicates the instrument can also be adapted for other consistency tests such as grease penetration.

Universal Penetrometers are used for testing a wide variety of materials such as grease, petroleum, bitumen, tar, asphalt, wax polish, food stuffs, rubber, cement, pharmaceutical creams and soils.In this test, a chosen force is applied over a given area for a known period of time and the depth of penetration or the depression made in the sample is measured in tenths of a millimetre which is expressed as a penetration number. An accurately fabricated steel base has been designed to facilitate penetration tests to be made over a wide surface area of sample.

Adjustable feet are provided in the base for levelling. Upright may be rotated to permit the testing of samples immersed in a thermostat bath.

Each penetrometer is supplied with a plunger weighing 47.5 g for testing bituminous product, and one each of 50g and 100 g weights, including cone and Penetration Unit.