To determine the grade of given bitumen. The penetration test is used as a measure of consistency. Higher values of penetration indicate softer consistency.

1. Experiment name : Determination of penetration of
bituminous materials
Course Code: CE 354
Course Title: Transportation Engineering Sessional I
Group Number: 08
Group Members Roll: 47, 48, 49 & 50
Dhaka International University

2. ASTM D5 | BIS:1203
Name of The Experiment: Determination of penetration of
bituminous materials

3. To determine grade of given bitumen
Test Objectives
Significance and use
The penetration test is used as a measure of consistency. Higher values of
penetration indicate softer consistency

4. 1. Penetrometer
Standard penetrometer
Automatic penetrometer
2. Needle
3. Water bath
4. Stop watch
5. Thermometer
6. Container
7. Heater
55mm
35mm
Apparatus
8. Tray

5. • Heat (75° to100° C) the sample with care, stirring when possible. (Figure:-1)
• Do not heat samples for more than 30 min.
Preparation of Test Specimen
Figure:-1

6. • Pour the sample into the sample container. (Figure:-2)
• Let it cool for 1 to 1.5 h. After that put it in the water bath maintained at the prescribed
(25° C) test temperature. (Figure:-3)
Preparation of Test Specimen
Figure:-2 Figure:-3

7. • Place the Container on the stand of the penetrometer. (Figure:-4)
• Position the needle by slowly lowering it until its tip just makes contact with the surface of the
sample. (Figure:-5)
Procedure
Figure:-4 Figure:-5

8. • Note the reading of the penetrometer dial or bring the pointer to zero. (Figure:-6)
• Make at least three determinations at points on the surface of the sample not less than 10 mm
from the side of the container and not less than 10 mm apart. (Figure:-7)
Procedure
(Figure:-6) (Figure:-7)

9. • Use a clean needle for each determination. (Figure:-8)
Procedure
Figure:-8

10. Calculation
SL. No.
Time
(Sec)
Initial
Reading
Final
Reading
Penetration
Avg.
Penetration
Penetration
(In mm)
01 05 105 136 31
30.67 3102 05 110 142 32
03 05 120 139 29

11. The penetration of bituminous material is 31
Result
We found that our sample lies in the range of 30-40 Grade which is recommended for warmer
regions. As Bangladesh is a comparatively warm region, this sample is usable for road construction.
Discussion

12. Thank you for
your attention