This Load Frame was specifically designed to perform Stability-Flow measurements on bituminous paving mixtures in a variety of test methods.  The AFLF1 is certified to be accurate to within 0.1% of load reading between 1 and 45 kN under the ASTM-E4 procedure.  The AFLF1 can also test other construction materials, such as concrete and soils.  In this case, provision must be made to collect displaced liquids and prevent intrusion into the electronics compartment below the test platen.  Simple measures such as the temporary placement of absorbent materials may be sufficient.

Test Methods

• • Marshall (ASTM D6927 & AASHTO T 245)
  • Tensile Strength Ratio (AASHTO T 283)
  • Balanced Mix Design IDEAL-CT & IDEAL-RT (ASTM D8225)

It is anticipated that similar loading tests developed in the future will be made available via software updates that can be installed via USB flash drives by laboratory technicians.

Machine control is accomplished via a touch screen HMI (Human-Machine Interface) which includes navigation and command buttons, as well as alphanumeric keypads for data entry.  This unit includes a companion application for a PC.  The companion application allows a user to see the user interface in real time on the PC screen.  It gives a user access to test data allowing it to be moved to the PC for printing and analysis.