BITUMEN
Bitumen Penetrometer & Penetration Test Apparatus
The Bitumen Penetration Test is the fundamental empirical method for classifying consistency. Lithostek’s LS-PT range provides sub-micron precision through advanced LVDT sensing.
Available Products
3 products in this category
Compare LS-PT Penetrometers
Lithostek builds the LS-PT series around ASTM D5, EN 1426, AASHTO T49, and IP 49 asphalt binder penetration workflows. Compare the digital, automatic, and motorized platforms by automation level, temperature control, data handling, and application scope before selecting a configuration.
| Model | Best for | Needle positioning | Measurement | Temperature control | Data handling | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LS-PT10 | Routine binder QC and entry-level labs | Manual lead-screw stage adjustment | 0.01 mm displacement | Ambient ~ 40°C built-in PID heating | 500 test sets with automated triple-test averaging | Standard bitumen penetration grading |
| LS-PT20 | Research labs and multi-material testing | Automatic test execution with digital control | 0.01 mm displacement | Ambient ~ 40.0°C, +/-0.1°C control precision | Real-time PC link and Windows software compatibility | Bitumen, paraffin wax, grease, and pastes |
| LS-PT100A | High-throughput acceptance testing | Patented motorized lift with adjustable speed | 0.01 mm LVDT sensing | 5.0°C - 40.0°C onboard compressor refrigeration | Built-in logging and standardized reporting workflow | Climate-controlled asphalt binder characterization |
How to choose
Choose LS-PT10 for routine penetration grading and daily QC where a dependable digital workflow is enough. Choose LS-PT20 when your lab needs PC-linked data transfer, automated logging, or modular wax and grease testing. Choose LS-PT100A when sample throughput is high or ambient conditions are unstable, because its motorized lift and onboard compressor refrigeration reduce operator variance.
How the penetration test works
- 1. Condition the asphalt binder sample for the target method.
- 2. Zero the standard needle at the sample surface.
- 3. Release the 100 g moving assembly for the selected interval.
- 4. Record penetration depth and repeat at separate points.
LS-PT10- Digital
The essential digital solution for standardized bitumen characterization. Features a high-sensitivity displacement sensor and a 7-inch touchscreen, providing a robust and reliable workflow for entry-level laboratories requiring consistency under ASTM D5 and EN 1426.
LS-PT20- Automatic
Engineered for advanced research and multi-material versatility. The LS-PT20 features a specialized hardware architecture that supports real-time data transmission to PC software, while its modular design extends testing capabilities to paraffin, grease, and other non-metallic fluids.
LS-PT100A- Motorized
The flagship motorized workstation for high-throughput laboratory environments. Featuring a patented motorized lift system and an integrated compressor refrigeration unit, the LS-PT100A offers a complete, all-in-one climate-controlled solution (5-40°C) for the ultimate precision in binder characterization.
Compliance & Standards
All products in the Consistency - Penetration Testing category comply with international testing standards including:
ASTM Standards
EN Standards
AASHTO Standards
BS Standards
ISO Standards
Technical Compliance & FAQ
ASTM D5 vs EN 1426 vs AASHTO T49
ASTM D5, EN 1426, and AASHTO T49 all define needle penetration testing for bituminous binders. Laboratories should confirm the current edition and local reporting requirements before finalizing a tender. Lithostek penetrometers are configured around the target standard with stable temperature control, certified weights, and precision timing.
AASHTO T49 Alignment
AASHTO T49 aligns with ASTM D5 while adding guidance for binder acceptance in highway programs. The Intelligence series integrates automated timing and depth sensing to reduce operator variance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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