This document describes the penetration test method for bituminous materials (ASTM D5-13). The penetration test determines the consistency of a bitumen sample by measuring the depth in tenths of a millimeter that a standard needle vertically penetrates the sample under specific conditions. A higher penetration value indicates a softer consistency. The method involves heating the sample, cooling it, and using a penetrometer to take three measurements at the test temperature. The measurements are averaged and the penetration grade is reported.

1. PENETRATION TEST ON BITUMEN
(ASTM D5-13)
Consistency of a bituminous
material expressed as the distance in
tenths of a millimeter that a standard
needle vertically penetrates a
sample of the material under known
conditions of loading, time and
temperature.
Definition
Procedure
Test Objectives
To determine grade of given
bitumen
The penetration test is used as a
measure of consistency. Higher
values of penetration indicate softer
consistency
Significance
and use
Apparatus
Penetrometer
Recording of Results
•Results are displayed on the dial in case of analog
penetrometer or on the screen of the digital penetrometer.
1. 52.7
2. 53.4
3. 53.7
Report to nearest whole unit the average of three
penetrations.
• Penetration
Apparatus(Penetrometer)
• Penetration Needle
• Sample Container
• Water Bath
• Timing Device
• Thermometer
• Clean a penetration needle with toluene or other
suitable solvent, dry with a clean cloth, and
insert the needle into the penetrometer.
• Place the Container on the stand of the
penetrometer.
• Position the needle by slowly lowering it until
its tip just makes contact with the surface of the
sample.
• note the reading of the penetrometer dial or
bring the pointer to zero. Quickly release
the needle holder for the specified period of
time and adjust the instrument to measure the
distance penetrated in tenths of a millimeter.
• 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. Use a clean needle for each
determination.
Our result is 53, 53 and 54.The mean of which is
53.67.Hence our grade is 50/60.
Preparation of Test
Specimen
• Heat the sample with care, stirring when
possible
• Do not heat samples for more than 30 min.
• Pour the sample into the sample container.
• let it cool for 1 to 1.5 h. After that put it in
the water bath maintained at the prescribed
test temperature.
Muhammad Taimur Khan Muhammad Akhtar
2k18-FT-MSC-TRAN-05 2k18-FT-MSC-TRAN-06

2. STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR PENETRATION OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL
(ASTM D5-13)
Precision
• Single operator precision is 1.4% for penetrations above 60 and
0.35% below 50 and hence results should not differ by more
than 4% of the mean or 1 unit whichever is larger.
• Multilaboratory precision is 3.8% above 50 pen and 1.4%
below 50 pen. Hence results should not differ by more than
11% or 4 units which is larger.
• Single operator Precision
• Multilab Precision
Limitations
• The test is empirical and does not measure any fundamental
engineering parameter such as viscosity.
• Temperature susceptibility (the change in asphalt binder
rheology with temperature) cannot be determined by a
single test at 25° C (77° F).
• The test does not provide information with which to
establish mixing and compaction temperatures.
Deficiency
• The absence of a transfer dish which prevents rocking during
transfer of material.
Muhammad Taimur Khan Muhammad Akhtar
2k18-FT-MSC-TRAN-05 2k18-FT-MSC-TRAN-06
Calliberation
While using a mechanical penetrometer when the needle is
touched to the surface of bitumen, then the dial is brought to
zero.
• Take a stopwatch and measure whether the time is 5 sec.
• Find the weight of the plunger and the needle.
• Keep your hands clear of the needle.
• While using the digital penetrometer beware of electric
hazard.
• Rubber Gloves
• Mask
• Glasses
• Rubber boots or safety shoes
Safety