ASTM D2170

The ASTM D2170 and ISO 12595 test methods specify a procedure for the determination of the kinematic viscosity of liquid asphalts (bitumens), road oils and distillation residues of liquid asphalts (bitumens) all at 60°C (140°F) and of asphalt cements at 135°C (275°F) in the range from 6 to 100 000 mm²/s (cSt). Results of this test method can be used to calculate viscosity when the density of the test material at the test temperature is known or can be determined. The time is measured for a fixed volume of liquid to flow under gravity through the capillary of a calibrated viscometer under a reproducible driving head and at a closely controlled and known temperature inside a viscosity bath.

Why is the kinematic viscosity of asphalts (bitumens) important to know?

The kinematic viscosity characterizes flow behavior. The method is used to determine the consistency of bitumen as one element in establishing the uniformity of shipments or sources of supply. The specifications are usually at temperatures of 60 and 135°C. Thus, the accurate determination of viscosity is essential to many product specifications.

Summary of ASTM D2170 and ISO 12595 test methods

The ASTM D2170 and ISO 12595 methods specify a procedure for the determination of the kinematic viscosity, ν, of liquid by measuring the time for a volume of liquid to flow under gravity through a calibrated glass capillary viscometer inside a viscosity bath. The kinematic viscosity (determined value) is the product of the measured flow time and the calibration constant of the viscometer. Two such determinations are needed from which to calculate a kinematic viscosity result that is the average of two acceptable determined values. The dynamic viscosity, η, can be obtained by multiplying the kinematic viscosity, ν, by the density, ρ, of the liquid.

Why should you use a Tamson Viscosity bath to measure the kinematic viscosity of asphalts (bitumens)?

The robust Tamson viscosity baths can be operated from ambient +5°C up to +230°C (41..446°F), the widest range in the industry. With the use of the built-in cooling coil and an external Tamson cooling circulator, span lies 5°C above the temperature of the cold flow of the external cooling circulator. The TV2000 and TV4000 have a bath volume of 20 and 40 litres respectively. The TV2000 has a cover with three openings and lids. The TV4000 has a cover with seven openings and lids. These openings accommodate glass capillary viscometers in viscometer holders. A bath overflow outlet protects from expanding bath oil when the bath filling is expanding at higher temperatures. The viscometer bath has a drain to remove the bath content. The bath is fitted with a double window of which the front pane is detachable for cleaning purposes.

Please contact our sales team (sales@tamson.nl) to get a quotation. Or visit our webshop to get price and technical information for a viscosity bath and accessories to determine the kinematic viscosity of asphalts (bitumens) conform to ASTM D2170 and ISO 12595