A bitumen extractor is a device used to determine the percentage of bitumen in a bituminous pavement mixture. The process involves extracting the bitumen binder from the aggregate mixture by using a solvent, typically trichloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene, and then measuring the weight of the extracted bitumen to calculate its percentage in the original sample.
Here is a general outline of how to use a bitumen extractor manually:
Equipment Required:
- Bitumen extractor apparatus
- Aggregate sample
- Solvent (trichloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene)
- Balance
Procedure:
- Prepare the Apparatus:
- Ensure that the bitumen extractor apparatus is clean and in good condition.
- Assemble the extractor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Sample Preparation:
- Take a representative sample of the bituminous mixture.
- Weigh the sample accurately on a balance and record the weight.
- Extraction Process:
- Place the sample in the extractor basket or thimble.
- Add the solvent to the extractor flask or chamber.
- Set up the heating source (if applicable) to heat the solvent. Be cautious with heating solvents as they are flammable and harmful if inhaled.
- Lower the sample into the solvent and start the extraction process. The solvent will dissolve the bitumen from the sample.
- Allow the extraction process to continue for a specified period, usually a few hours, to ensure complete dissolution of the bitumen.
- Bitumen Recovery:
- Once the extraction process is complete, remove the extractor basket or thimble from the solvent.
- Rinse the extracted sample with fresh solvent to remove any remaining bitumen residue.
- Dry the sample in an oven to remove any remaining solvent.
- Weighing:
- Weigh the extracted sample (containing bitumen) accurately on a balance after drying.
- Record the weight of the extracted bitumen.
- Calculations:
- Calculate the percentage of bitumen in the original sample using the following formula: Percentage of Bitumen=Weight of Extracted Bitumen Weight of Original Sample×100Percentage of Bitumen=Weight of Original Sample Weight of Extracted Bitumen×100
- Cleanup:
- Clean the apparatus thoroughly after use to remove any residues and ensure it is ready for the next test.
It’s crucial to follow safety guidelines when handling solvents and operating the extractor to prevent any accidents or exposure to harmful substances. Additionally, always refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for your bitumen extractor for accurate and safe usage.
