Document No: UTAS-1056.ACPR

Revision Date: 27.11.2019/00

UTAS-1056.ACPR AUTOMATIC MARSHALL STABILITY TEST MACHINE

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LIABILITY AND SAFETY    i

Safety Symbols and Markings    i

Liability    ii

General Safety Instructions    iii

Device Handling    v

1. INTRODUCTION    1

1.1 Product Description    1

1.2 Parts of the UTAS-1056.ACPR    3

2. INSTALLATION    5

2.1 Unpacking    5

2.2 Environment    6

3. U-TOUCH PRO CONTROL UNIT    7

3.1 Parameters Tab    9

3.1.1. Test Type Tab    10

3.1.2 Specimen Tab    10

3.1.3 Test Parameters Tab    11

3.1.4 Graph Tab    15

3.2 Results Tab    16

3.3. Settings Tab    18

3.3.1 Company Tab    18

3.3.2 Date/Time Tab    19

3.3.3 USB/Storage Tab    20

3.3.4 Unit System    21

3.3.5 Language    22

3.3.6. Password    23

3.4 Calibration Tab    23

3.5 Admin    24

3.5.1 Gain Tab    24

3.5.2 PID, Files and Device    26

4. COMPUTER CONNECTION    29

5. UTEST COMPUTER SOFTWARE    32

5.1 Upper Menu and File System    34

5.2 Right Part of the Interface    36

5.3 Bottom Part of the Interface    38

6. OPERATION CONTROOLED ON THE COMPUTER SOFTWARE    38

7. OPERATION CONTROOLED ON THE DEVICE    40

8. MAINTANENCE    43

9. TROUBLESHOOTING    44

10. DECLARATION    46

11. WIRING DIAGRAM    47

12. CONTACT INFORMATION    48

FIGURES

FIGURES

Figure 1-Parts of the UTAS-1056.ACPR    3

Figure 2-Main Tab    9

Figure 3-Test Type Tab    10

Figure 4-Specimen Tab    11

Figure 5-Test Parameters Tab    12

Figure 6-Break Percentage    14

Figure 7-Graph Tab    16

Figure 8-Results Tab    17

Figure 9-Tangent Offset    18

Figure 10-Settings Tab    19

Figure 11-Date/Time Tab    20

Figure 12-USB Storage Tab    21

Figure 13-Unit System Tab    22

Figure 14-Language Tab    22

Figure 15-Password Tab    23

Figure 16-Calibration Tab    24

Figure 17-Gains Tab    25

Figure 18-PID Screen    27

Figure 19-Auto-tuning Screen    27

Figure 20-Base Tab    29

Figure 21-Network and Internet Settings    30

Figure 22-Changing Adaptor Options    30

Figure 23-Properties for Current Connection    31

Figure 24-Accessing IPv4 Options    31

Figure 25-Setting Correct IP    32

Figure 26: Software Main Menu    33

Figure 27-Software Opening Screen    34

Figure 28-Software Upper Menu    34

Figure 29-Test Buttons    35

Figure 30: Software Right Menu    37

Figure 31-Software Bottom Menu    38

Figure 32-Placing Marshall Specimen into the Breaking Head    40

Figure 33-Preparing LVDT    41

Figure 34-Fixing LVDT on Breaking Head    42

Figure 35-Extraction of Box    44

Figure 36-Fuse with its Spare    45

TABLES

Table 1-UTAS-1056.ACPR Electrical Connection Properties    6

Table 2-Gain Options of Some Sensors    26

LIABILITY AND SAFETY

This manual contains important information on the safe usage and maintenance of UTAS-1056.ACPR Machine and of its related components.

Please read through the manual carefully before operating the device for the first time and keep it for the future reference.

Safety Symbols and Markings

Symbol    Description

WARNING: In conjunction with one of the signal words this symbol indicates a hazard which will or could result in death or serious injury.

ELECTRIC HAZARD: In conjunction with one of the signal words this symbol indicates a hazard involving electrical voltage and identifies information about protection against electrical voltage.

HIGH TEMPERATURE WARNING: This icon indicates a hot surface warning. Protective gear must be worn at all times while working with or close to the sections marked with this warning icon.

NOTE: Recommendations and important information on how to handle the product.

Liability

UTEST General Terms and Conditions of Sales and Delivery apply in all cases. Warranty and liability claims arising from personal injury and damage to property cannot be upheld if they are due to one or more of the following causes:

1. Unauthorized modifications to the device and its components.

2. Failure to use the instrument in accordance with its designated use and purpose which is described in this manual.

3. Failure to adhere to the sections of the manual dealing with the performance check, operation and maintenance of the instrument and its components.

4. Incorrect performance checks for operation and maintenance of the instrument and its components.

5. Damage resulting from the effects of foreign bodies, accidents, vandalism and force majeure.

The instrument is only to be used for its designated purpose as describe herein. Replace faulty components only with original replacement parts from UTEST. Accessories should only be installed or connected to the instrument if they are expressly authorized by UTEST. If other accessories are installed or connected to the instrument, then UTEST will accept no liability and the product guarantee is forfeit.

General Safety Instructions

This part contains important safety instructions that the user must follow for operation and storage of UTAS-1056.ACPR.

1. Device should be seated on a steady base.

2. Always follow basic safety precautions when using this product to reduce risk of injury from any dangerous situations.

3. Read and understand all instructions in the documentation that comes with UTAS-1056.ACPR.

4. Observe all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

5. Before removing any covers or performing maintenance repair and service, isolate from electrical supply by removing mains plug

6. Wear protective clothing when handling equipment at extreme temperature.

7. Avoid contact with these materials if any organic or inorganic chemicals are used in the test to be performed with the equipment.

8. Wear safety glasses, gloves and a lab coat before starting the test.

9. Do not lean the cabinet to the wall at zero distance.

10. While the test is in operation do not remove any covers or attempt to adjust any part of the machine.

WARNING: The equipment is not allowed to be operated by children or anyone under the influence of alcohol, drugs or pharmaceutical preparations. Anyone who is not familiar with this manual must be supervised when using the equipment. Carry out the stipulated maintenance properly and at the correct time. Following completion of the maintenance tasks, perform a functional check.

Safety Features of UTAS-1056.ACPR is following:

Emergency Stop Button: The machine is equipped with an emergency stop button that halts all operation when pressed.

Piston Limit Switches for Bottom Platen: The machine is equipped with two limit switches in up and down directions to prevent movement of the bottom platen beyond desired positions.

Automatic Stop and Maximum Load and Displacement Control: Using digital control unit, maximum load and displacement limits can be set to limit the travel of the bottom platen. Please refer to section 3.1.3 for detailed instructions regarding graphical control unit.

The electronic and mechanic parts of UTAS-1056.ACPR are sensitive components. Please handle them carefully.

1. Do not place any heavy objects on the device.

2. Avoid any impact or rough handling that might damage the device.

3. Do not change the calibration settings of the machine.

4. Do not disassemble UTAS-1056.ACPR.

5. Install the product in a protected location where no one can step on or trip over the power cord and in a location where the power cord cannot be damaged.

1.1 Product Description

The UTAS-1056.ACPR 50 kN Capacity Automatic Marshall Stability Test Machine with U-Touch PRO Control Unit is designed to determine the maximum load and flow values of bituminous mixtures. With suitable accessories UTAS-1056.ACPR can perform crack propagation by semi-circular bending test and determination of the indirect tensile strength of bituminous specimens.

The machine comprises of a robust and compact two column frame with adjustable upper cross beam. The unit is a bench mounting compression frame with motor and worm gear housed within the base unit. The speed of the lower platen can be adjusted from 2 mm/min to 52 mm/min using U-Touch PRO digital screen. For safety, the up and down travel of the lower platen is limited by the use of limit switches. Rapid adjustment of the platen is controlled by using the up and down buttons on the front panel of the machine. The machine can be hand operated by a lateral hand wheel for calibration purposes.

Main Features of UTAS-1056.ACPR Automatic Marshall Stability Machine is following;

1. 50 kN capacity

2. Stand-alone fully automatic test execution

1. For Marshall, indirect tensile and semi-circular bending tests.

2. Flow and stability values are automatically calculated and saved.

3. Touchscreen graphic display 800x480 pixel, user-friendly menu consisting of icons, figures and diagrams.

4. High resolution: 32 bits

5. Large storing capacity on internal memory and data export function to usb stick drive

6. Ethernet port for connection to PC

7. Language and unit system selection

The measuring system consists of a 50 kN capacity strain gauge load cell fitted to the upper cross beam to read stability values and a 25 x 0.001 mm linear potentiometric displacement transducer fitted to the Breaking Head consists of upper and lower jaw. UTAS-1056.ACPR Automatic Marshall Stability Machine is suitable for testing both 4’’ and 6’’ specimens. The machine complies with EN 12697-34, 12697-23, 12967-12 Method A; ASTM D1559, D5581, D6927; D6931; AASHTO T245.

UTAS-1056.ACPR Automatic Marshall Stability Machine is supplied complete with;

1. Load Cell, 50 kN

2. Penetration Piston for Marshall Stability Test (UTAS-1086)

3. Linear Potentiometric Displacement Transducer 25 x 0.001 mm (UTGM-0062) with holder (UTAS-1060)

4. UTEST Software

1. Ethernet cable for connection PC

2. Hand Wheel for Manual Control

3. Emergency Stop Button as a safety feature

As soon as the power plug connected from the mains, mains/red light is lit. When the power switch is activated to its ‘1’ position, power/green light is lit too. Both lights should active when the device runs.

1.2 Parts of the UTAS-1056.ACPR

Following figure is identifying parts and controls in the machine:

Figure 1-Parts of the UTAS-1056.ACPR

Displacement Transducer: Linear Potentiometric Displacement Transducer (LVDT) provides an electric signal proportional to the linear shaft displacement. UTEST supplies Linear Potentiometric Displacement Transducer 25 x 0.001 mm (UTGM-0062) with holder (UTAS-1060). LVDT is used to determine precise and accurate linear displacement measurements during testing.

Emergency Stop Button: Emergency Stop Button is a safety mechanism used to shut off machinery in an emergency, when it cannot be shut down in the usual manner.

U-Touch PRO Control Unit: U-Touch PRO Control and Data Acquisition Unit is designed to control and process data from the loadcell and displacement transducers fitted on Marshall Stability test machine. UTAS-1056.ACPR can perform marshall, indirect tensile and semi-circular bending tests according to EN, ASTM/AASHTO and BS standards listed above.

Crosshead: Crosshead is used to height adjustment is for easy and precise test set up and manual through locking pins are used to fix the upper crosshead. The load is measured by a load cell that located on upper crosshead and displacement is measured by a displacement transducer.

Fixing Nut: The upper cross head can be adjusted via fixing nuts to set the vertical test space for different tests.

Breaking Head: The Marshall breaking heads consist of upper and lower jaw with an internal radius of curvature of 3 "for 6" samples and an internal diameter of 2 "for 4" samples. The lower segment is connected to the upper segment by two vertical guide bars extending vertically from the base. One guide bar is larger than the other. LVDT connection is made to the small guide bar side.

Base Platen: A platen attached to the base of a device secured by anchor bolts to the piston. The breaking head is placed on top of this plate.

2. INSTALLATION 2.1 Unpacking

Open the case without damaging the contents and remove all packaging materials. Check for completeness and damages if exist. Report any irregularities directly to the supplier. Take necessary precautions and carefully transport and place the device to its place.

UTAS-1056.ACPR will be sent in a main part. Therefore, users do not need to assemble it. First, the machine must be placed properly. Then, electrical connections must be done. Place the unit near an appropriate power source. Leave enough space at the sides of the unit so as to you can clean specimen breakage, maintain the machine and access the back of the unit. The unit should be fixed. Throw away any unnecessary packing braces and remove shipping materials.

Make sure that the room in which the device is going to be placed have a proper mains supply which is in compliance with the machines specifications, and enough number of plugs for the connection of the device, PC/laptop, etc. Check the voltage (V), ampere (A), frequency (Hz), and the phase of the mains supply in Table 1.

Table 1-UTAS-1056.ACPR Electrical Connection Properties

Voltage	Ampere	Power	Frequency	Phase
220 - 240 V	5A	1000 W	50 - 60 Hz	1Ph

Main electricity line must be free from instabilities and repetitive power cuts for both the extended life of the device and the continuity of testing. Therefore, make sure that the mains supply is well grounded. If the power cuts are frequent or the grounding is not well enough, the use of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is recommended.

Make sure that the device is placed in a clean and dry surrounding. Direct contact of the device with the sunlight should be avoided. A conditioned room for example, will comply the above conditions and will result in best operational performance and measurement results. Device should be well accessible from the front and the sides for connections, testing and maintenance.

In order to prevent inaccurate test results, the ground should be rigid enough to minimize vibrations or shocks. If there are any other testing equipment or a source that creates vibrations on the floor, UTAS-1056.ACPR should be placed maximum possible distance to that source. Surface of the ground should be horizontal and smooth enough so that the horizontal and vertical alignment of the device are not shifted.

NOTE: If remote assistance will be required from the UTEST Technical Service Department, the room should have an internet access.

3. U-TOUCH PRO CONTROL UNIT

U-Touch PRO Control and Data Acquisition Unit is designed to control and process data from the load cell and displacement transducers fitted on Marshall Stability test machine. UTAS-1056.ACPR can perform Marshall, Indirect Tensile and semi-circular bending tests according to EN, ASTM/AASHTO and BS standards listed above.

All the operations of U-Touch PRO Control Unit are controlled from the front panel color resistive touch screen display and function keys. The unit can be configured as using for two frames or one frame with three displacement transducers. The Control Unit has easy to use menu options. It displays all menu option listings simultaneously, allowing the operator to access the required option in a seamless manner to activate the option or enter a numeric value to set the test parameters. Its specimen setting sub-menu lists different specimen types including but not limited to cube, cylinder, block, beam, beam double upper bearers, cube splitting tensile, cylinder splitting tensile, paving block splitting tensile and kerb flexure. Main Features of the control unit is following:

1. Support for -optionally supplied- integrated thermal printer

2. Real time display of test graph

3. Backup and recall option for device settings

4. Easy recall of embedded test parameters for different types of tests and sample sizes

5. Three different units (kN, kgf, psi)

6. Real time and adjustable date/ time.

7. Multi-language  support  (English,  French,  Spanish,  Turkish,

Russian…)

8. LAN connection for instantaneous transfer of test data to PC.

9. USB port support for transfer of test data to a flash drive.

In the main tab, on the left column, load, and displacement is shown separately in their individual boxes in kN and mm respectively (see Figure 2). These are the live values that comes from the sensors except for the stress value. Moreover, in the same column, at the very bottom some summary information about the upcoming test is listed (test number, status of the test, selected test speed, and test type).

Figure 2-Main Tab

Load and displacement readings can be zeroed using relevant tare buttons near each reading. At the start of the test, these values will be tared automatically Press up and down keys to adjust the position of the base platen manually. Play button is used to initiate the test and stop button is used to stop the test. Pause button will be greyed out and should not be used for Marshall testing.

3.1 Parameters Tab

In this section there are four sub-tabs in which the test type, parameters, specimen shape properties, and graph are defined (see Figure 3).

Figure 3-Test Type Tab

3.1.2 Specimen Tab

39. (See Figure 4). The device calculates the "c" value for the Marshall test 10 in accordance with EN and ASTM standards. If the “THICKNESS CORRECTION” value is set to “On” after entering the thickness and diameter of the sample, this value will be calculated automatically by the device (See Figure 4).

Figure 4-Specimen Tab

3.1.3 Test Parameters Tab

The test parameters tab contains the starting speed, max load, max displacement, failure threshold, zero suppression, break percentage, load DP and displacement DP (see Figure 5). All of the sub-tabs is explained in the following section:

Figure 5-Test Parameters Tab

NOTE: Parameter values given in Figure 5 are representative. The current values are factory set by UTEST. Do not change these values.

Starting speed: Starting speed defines the approach speed of the piston until the device begins to load the sample. This speed adjusts the time until the test begins. High speeds can be selected to shorten the start of the experiment. The desired speed of the test is multiplied by the percentage written here. When the device starts to apply a load to the specimen, the selected test speed enters the circuit.

Max load: This value defines maximum load limit. When this value is reached, the digital control unit will end the test to protect the machine from excessive loading. As a safety feature prevent over loading.

Max Displacement: This value defines maximum displacement limit. When this value is reached, the digital control unit will end the test to protect the machine and the breaking head.

WARNING: Maximum displacement value should be selected as the gap between upper and lower jaws of the breaking head. This is an additional safety measure to prevent machine applying load directly to

breaking head and creating excessive loads.

Failure threshold: Threshold is the value in kN, below which no failure will be detected by the machine. At the start of the test, there may be small fluctuations in the load reading due to micro-cracks or electrical noise and this option can be used to enable the machine to continue the test even when load decreases below this value. For example, if this value is set as 3 kN and if load decreases 50% for half a second at 2 kN machine will continue the test. In the same situation if this value is set as 1 kN, machine will stop the test.

Zero Suppression: This option defines the value below which readings are filtered. Below 1% capacity of the load cell, machine can only read electrical noise. Instead of visualizing electrical noise, machine will filter these values as 0 and displays a stable value.

Break percentage: This value defines the break detection algorithm of the machine. In real time, the machine constantly takes the current reading value and compares it to the maximum value reached during the test. When the ratio of current value to maximum value reaches this value defined by the user, test will be stopped. For example, in Figure 6, the maximum value during the test is 1 kN. If break percentage has been chosen as 20%, test will stop at [1], i.e. when load has decreased by 20% (to 0.8kN). If break percentage has been chosen as 40%, test will stop at and if break percentage has been chosen as 60%, test will stop at [3]. Considering most bituminous mixture do not show a clear decrease in load, this value should be kept as low as possible while testing hot bituminous mixtures.

Test Speed: Test speed for tests can be adjusted in this box. Marshall Stability machine is capable of performing tests from 2 to 52 mm/min. For Marshall testing should be left as default (50,8 mm/min).

Load DP and Displacement DP: These two values are used to determine how many values the load and displacement values on the main test screen show after the point. If these values are selected as 3, Load and Displacement values are set to show 3 digits after the point.

Record Raw Data: Raw data during the test can be recorded with desired intervals to the internal memory of the touchscreen. Please note this function uses internal memory of the machine and logs should be dumped to flash drive very often if this function is checked with low intervals.

WARNING: Parameters explained above are adjusted by UTEST at factory and quality control checks have been made. These parameters should not be adjusted unless otherwise instructed by UTEST technical service team.

3.1.4 Graph Tab

Main graph on test tab can be adjusted using this screen. For real time graph, two options are available. Load-Time and Load-Displacement graphs can be drawn and visualized by the machine. Please note these graphs are not stored on the touchscreen and for them to be recalled later, UTEST computer software should be used. Please refer to section 5 for computer software. Graph axis can be pre-defined by users or Auto Scale function can be used. Auto scaling will adjust the maximum values for both load and displacement for the graph to contain all the data.

Figure 7-Graph Tab

To save the test result, the Recording tab in the Test Parameters Tab must be set to “On”. The basic information (test number, test start time, test type, test speed, peak load, etc.) about the corresponding test number is displayed in this screen (see Figure 8). When results for a specific test is desired to be seen, first typing the test number, then touching to the number indicated or use “- “and “+” buttons. If thickness correction has been selected, both corrected and uncorrected results will be displayed. There are two results for each test namely Peak Method and Tangent offset. These will be explained in the following section.

Figure 8-Results Tab

ASTM D 6927 -15 proposes two different calculations for stability and flow values. UTEST Automatic Marshall Stability Machine is capable of automatically calculating and reporting these values using both methods. Figure 9 shows the calculations made using both methods. Tangent will be drawn in real time on test graph and will be shifted by 1.5 mm as proposed by ASTM to obtain flow and stability values. In report section, Stability and flow values labeled [TANGENT OFFSET] will do the calculations based on the alternative approach proposed by ASTM and values labeled [PEAK METHOD] will calculate and report the maximum load value reached during test and flow value corresponding to that point. Please refer to section 4.1.2 of ASTM 6927 -15 for more details regarding the alternative approach of flow and stability value calculation.

Figure 9-Tangent Offset

3.3. Settings Tab

Settings tab contains the company, date/time, USB storage, language, and password. All of the sub-tabs is explained in the following section (see Figure 10).

3.3.1 Company Tab

In the company screen, on the left side UTEST logo and the contact information of UTEST is displayed. With the box on the right side, theme selection for the screen is possible.

Figure 10-Settings Tab

3.3.2 Date/Time Tab

In this tab, on the left side of the screen there is a calendar that displays the date and interacts with the user. By using the box placed on the right side of the screen; year, month, day, hour, minute, and second values can be input and then by pressing the “SET” button, date and time settings are done (see Figure 11).

Figure 11-Date/Time Tab

3.3.3 USB/Storage Tab

Right section on this tab contains information regarding the internal memory of the machine. When refresh button is pressed, the machine will check its internal memory and alerts the users about the memory usage of the machine. If this value reaches close to 95, test data should either be deleted or transferred to a USB drive. Clean storage button will delete the test data stored on the internal memory and “Copy Data Logs” can be used to transfer the data to a flash drive.

Figure 12-USB Storage Tab

3.3.4 Unit System

A unit system, or system of measurement, is a system comprised of interrelated units of measurement. Because unit systems were defined locally and since UTEST has sales offices in different countries, different unit systems have been added to the device which are kN-mm, lbf-in, kgf-cm (see Figure 13). The existence of different unit systems allows the test to be performed needed units and to obtain the necessary values in that unit system.

Figure 13-Unit System Tab

3.3.5 Language

The device is available with different language options (see Figure 14). The languages installed in the device are English, Turkish, French, Spanish, and Russian.

Figure 14-Language Tab

In this screen under the password tab, the admin password box is displayed (see Figure 15). Entering the password activates the “calibration” and “admin” tabs. If these menus are to be locked again, either the device should be restarted or a wrong number should be input to the password box. Password should be input on this tab as 88378.

Figure 15-Password Tab

3.4 Calibration Tab

This menu is password protected that allows the calibration to be adjusted so as to optimize the linearity of the system. Operator can divide the full scale of the testing unit in up to an eight channels, this allowing the input of up to eight calibration coefficients (one for each field) (See Figure 16).

WARNING: The Calibration menu is reserved to the authorized service  personnel  and  should  only  be  entered  when  the calibration needs to be changed. UTEST will not be responsible for any damage caused by improper setting of these parameters. Warranty will be void if this menu is used by unauthorized personnel.

Figure 16-Calibration Tab

3.5 Admin

The admin tab contains the gains, channels, PID, files, and base tabs (see Figure 17). All of the sub-tabs is explained in the following section.

3.5.1 Gain Tab

General logic behind the “gain” is to increase resolution of the data that flows in to the controller from sensors through their corresponding 24 channels as much as possible without reaching the saturation before the maximum value of the related sensor.

Gain values of each channel can be arranged by using this menu. First box is for gain control and it is used to arrange gain values of channels. Second box (GAINS) in the middle shows the present gain values for each channel. The last box (RAW DATA) displays the live raw data of channels to check the saturation (see Figure 17). As an information the gain options of some sensors are given in the Table 2.

Figure 17-Gains Tab

Table 2-Gain Options of Some Sensors

	Sensor			Gain Options
	Load cell			± 10 mV
	Pressure Transducer				± 50 mV
	Displacement			±2.5V

NOTE: Gains of each channel is optimized according to the sensors supplied with UTEST as ex-factory. Gain menu is only for the use of UTEST Technical Service Staff. Unauthorized changes may result in wrong test results or even damaged sensors and mechanical parts of the device and the device will be out of warranty.

3.5.2 PID, Files and Device

PID parameters can be changed using this screen. If machine fails to reach desired speeds PID parameters can be adjusted to enable correct test speeds. These values should not be changed unless instructed by UTEST personnel (see Figure 18).

Figure 18-PID Screen

The Coefficient display in the PID screen shows the Kp, Kd and Ki values used by the machine for the PID, but these values vary depending on the changes to be made in the Auto-tuning section (see Figure 19).

Figure 19-Auto-tuning Screen

Depending on the structure of each specimen, the behavior under load is different and these specimens must first be introduced to the device. Taking this difference into account, the PID values (Kp, Kd and Ki values) must be calculated and written in their place on the PID screen. This calculation is performed by Auto-tuning. Firstly, First Speed, Second Speed and Switch Time values are entered in Auto-tuning screen. The First Speed is the speed at which the machine starts to compress itself to pick up the specimen and then the machine applies the load at the Second Speed and recognizes the sample. As a result of this operation, it calculates the Kp, Kd and Ki values of that sample, these values should be written in their places on the Coefficient screen.

NOTE: These values (Kp, Kd and Ki values for each type of specimen) of each sample are entered as default by UTEST.

Files: Files transferred by UTEST technical service personnel can be loaded to the machine using this tab.

Base: IP, Theme and Control type selections can be made on this tab. Theme changes the visual display of the touchscreen. Control type can be chosen as PID or linear from this tab and IP settings can be changed.

Figure 20-Base Tab

4. COMPUTER CONNECTION

Establish the connection between digital control unit and the computer using the USB cable provided. Plug the end of the USB cable into the Ethernet port on the back of the device. Plug the other end of the cable into the USB port of your computer. To establish the connection, make sure the IP of your computer is set to 192.168.1.176. The IP of the digital display unit should be left as default. You can refer to the following figures to change your computer’s IP to 192.168.1.176.

First, as shown in Figure 21, right click on the "Network” and select “Open Network and Internet Settings”.

Then select “Change Adaptor Options” from the screen that appears (Figure 22).

Figure 22-Changing Adaptor Options

Right-click on the "Ethernet" connection on the adapter options page and select "Properties" (Figure 23)

Figure 23-Properties for Current Connection

Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP / IPv4) from the screen that appears (Figure 24).

Click on "Use the following IP address" on this screen. Enter 192.168.1.176 as the IP address and 255.255.255.0 as the Subnet mask and press OK to end the process (Figure 25). After that, the connection between your computer and the device will be established and the test can be conducted from UTEST computer software.

Figure 25-Setting Correct IP

5. UTEST COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Run the software using the application (*.exe) file. Select the MARSHALL TEST from the menu (See Figure 26. When the software is launched users will be greeted with software main menu as shown in Figure 27. On this interface, graph for each test will be displayed in the middle section. Right side of the interface will contain sample information, bottom bar can be used to start or stop test process and top section will contain information about current tests, files and test settings. The parts of the interface will be displayed in detail in following sections.

Figure 26: Software Main Menu

Figure 27-Software Opening Screen

5.1 Upper Menu and File System

Upper menu of the software contains three main tabs: File, Settings and Test and under these tabs 12 buttons. File menu contains customizations for report function and file system options.

Figure 28-Software Upper Menu

File > New button can be used to create a new test file.

File > Open button can be used to recall previous tests into the software. 34

File > Report Design button can be used to customize report software of the machine. Please contact UTEST technical service for details regarding this function.

File > Report Sample button can be used to get the test report in the format customized in the previous function “Report Design”.

File > Excel Raw File button can be used to dump test values in *.xls format.

File > Logo1 and Logo2 buttons can be used to insert custom logos to report format.

Second tab contains unit system button. This button can be used to change the unit system between kN – mm / kgf – mm and lbf – inch.

Test tab contains buttons to initiate and stop test process.

Figure 29-Test Buttons

Test > Start button can be used to initiate the test. The play button on the bottom part of the software also serves the same purpose.

Test > Stop button can be used to stop the test. The stop button on the bottom part of the software also serves the same purpose.

Test > Reset button can be used to return the bottom platen to its original position.

Test > Tare Load and Tare Displacement buttons can be used to set these values to zero before starting the test.

Ymax and Xmax sliders can be used to fit the graph to the main interface. When sliders for both Ymax and Xmax are pulled right, maximum values for X and Y axis will increase.

WARNING: If at the end of the test, test graph is not visualized correctly, some parts of the graph extend to outer parts of the screen, these sliders can be used to correct the graph and fit the graph to

the screen.

5.2 Right Part of the Interface

Right part of the interface contains Sample No slider and sample information. When testing for a set of three samples, results for all tests can be visualized on the same screen. In order to do this, samples should be defined in the software using the Sample No slider. Then the results for these three tests can be visualized individually or together using [1], [2] andbuttons on the bottom of the graph. Double clicking on these buttons will hide or display load – displacement chart for that sample.

Below the slider, the right side of the interface contains sample information. Bulk density and height of the sample should be entered and diameter of the sample should be selected. When this information is input, software will automatically calculate correction factor and volume of the sample.

Max Load is the maximum load obtained during the test.

Stability value is calculated by multiplying the correction factor with maximum load.

Flow is the displacement value at the point of maximum load.

Flow Tangent is the alternative calculation of flow in accordance with ASTM 6927 -15.

Figure 30: Software Right Menu

Figure 31-Software Bottom Menu

1. Automatically draws the tangent or hides the tangent for each test.

2. displays graphs for every test in different colors.

3. can be used to hide all graphs.

Buttons [1], [2] and [3] can be used to hide or display graphs for each test. Below these, there buttons, general information can be clicked to enter project or sample information. This information will be automatically input into the test report. Print and exit symbols on the right bottom part of the interface can also be used as shortcuts for these functions.

6. OPERATION CONTROOLED ON THE COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Before starting each test, users should create a new test file by pressing “NEW” button on top left of the interface. A pop-up menu will appear and ask the users where to save the test file. After creating a test file with the desired name software will be ready to operate.

NOTE: While choosing a test name for the test file please only use English characters and make sure save path, i.e. folder names for the save path also contains only English characters.

Make sure save path is not too long. For example, the path “c:\\users\public\stream\utest\test\Marshall\project1\may14\design14\t est15\” may be too long for the software to function properly. Instead try to use the software in “c:\\utest\Marshall”.

After creating a new test file, prepare the device and the specimen for the test. This procedure is same with procedure described in section 7 until item

5. After that enter the dimensions and the test rate from the software. Then press play button on bottom of the screen can be used to start the test. Once a test is finished other tests of the same set can be performed by changing sample no from the slider on the top right of the interface.

At the end of the test graph will be displayed on the center of the interface and test results can be accessed from the right part of the interface. Previous test results can be recalled using open button under file tab. The software allows reports to be generated for previous tests once *.kxt file has been loaded.

7. 
   
8. OPERATION CONTROLLED ON THE DEVICE

1. Read the requirements of the related standard of the test.

2. Prepare the sample for testing according to required standard.

3. Place the lower jaw of the breaking head on the base platen. Then place the marshall sample on the lower jaw and place the upper jaw over the guide bar through the guide bars (See Figure 31).

Figure 32-Placing Marshall Specimen into the Breaking Head

NOTE: To prevent the sample from sticking to the upper and lower jaw during the test, you can place the sample between the upper and lower jaw after wrapping greasy paper between the sample and upper, lower jaws.

4. Connect the LVDT to the LVDT socket on the back of the device. Then loosen the two screws on the LVDT socket and insert the LVDT into this bracket, tighten the two loosened screws and secure the LVDT (See Figure 32).

5. Pass the larger guide bar on the breaking head through the hole on the LVDT apparatus and secure the LVDT apparatus to the breaking head by turning the bakelite screw clockwise. When placing the LVDT on the breaking head, make sure that the entire push rod is in a pushed position

6. Select the “MARSHALL” test and desired standard from “Test Type

Tab”. After that enter the values of the sample in the locations under "Specimen Tab". Lastly enter the test speed from “Test

Parameters” Tab and from the “Test” screen start the test by pressing Start button.

7. After the test, take the sample between the jaws and place it in a suitable place. You can see the graph and values of the test on the "Test" screen.
   

maintenance for user’s safety.

WARNING: Trained technical personnel or electrician must carry out maintenance of the electric system. For device related electrical  issues  consult  UTEST  Technical  Service  Department  or

representative.

UTEST Automatic Marshall Stability Test Machine must be used correctly and maintenance and inspections must be performed at regular intervals. Such precautions will guarantee the safe and efficient functioning of the equipment. Periodic maintenance consists of inspections made directly by the test operator and/or by the authorized service personnel.

After each series of test, raise the platen to its maximum height, clean the platen and below the platen for broken small parts of asphalt and aggregates.

Apply a smear of medium grease to the shaft under the platen where it runs into the base casting. This is particularly important where a solvent is used for cleaning these parts.

Maintenance to the equipment is responsibility of the purchaser and must be performed as stated by this chapter. Failing to perform the recommended maintenance actions or maintenance performed by unauthorized people can void the warranty.

9. TROUBLESHOOTING

Possible problems and repairment technics are mentioned below. Please read this section before calling UTEST technical service.

If the machine does not switch on, check whether the emergency stop button stays in a pressed position or not. If the emergency stop button does not stay in pressed position, then fuse in rocker switch is changed with its spare given. You must first plug out the power cable to perform this operation. After that extract the box which carries the fuse with screwdriver and change the fuse with its spare (See Figure 35 and 36).

Figure 35-Extraction of Box

Figure 36-Fuse with its Spare

10. DECLARATION

11. WIRING DIAGRAM

12. CONTACT INFORMATION

Address: ASO 1. Organized Industrial Site

Ural Street No: 18 Sincan /Ankara /TURKEY

Phone: +90 312 394 38 75 (pbx)

Fax: +90 312 394 38 77

Web: www.utest.com.tr

Info: info@utest.com.tr

Export Sale: sales@utest.com.tr

Technical Service: service@utest.com.tr