Gyratory Compactor

Gyratory compaction is considered to be one of the best methods of laboratory compaction for the
assessment of compactibility and the manufacture of test specimens.

Compaction is achieved by the application of a vertical stress (normally 600KPa) via end platens to a
known mass of asphaltic mixture within a 100 or 150mm internal Ø mould. The longitudinal axis of the
mould is rotated (gyrated) at a fi xed angle to the vertical whilst the platens are kept parallel and horizontal.

During compaction the height of the sample is automatically measured and both the mixture density and
void content calculated. The compaction data is shown on-screen in graphical and tabular format as
compaction progresses and it is also saved in Microsoft Excel™ compatible format. The operator can
choose whether to compact for a certain number of gyrations or until a target mixture density or void
content is achieved.

Problems with existing compactors are mainly related to build quality and ease of use. Unlike most
compactors 100 and 150mm Ø moulds can be tested without changing machine parts. A fi lled gyratory
compactor mould is heavy and often very hot. In many cases these moulds have to be lifted in and out of
gyratory compactors. With the CRT-GYR-EN no lifting of fi lled moulds is required. They are automatically
lowered into position for compaction and then lifted up again for transfer to the integrated demoulding
system.

KEY FEATURES
• Complies with EN 12697-10 and EN 12697-31
• Can be confi gured to comply with SHRP Superpave specifications
• Automatic mould insertion and retraction
• 150mm and 100mm internal Ø moulds can be tested without changing parts
• Cold mix (emulsion) materials can be compacted and the expelled fl uid collected
• USB link with data acquisition and control system so that desktop can be used as host computer
• User friendly LabVIEW™ software displays results in real time
• Compaction data stored in Microsoft Excel™ compatible format
• Machine calibrated with traceable equipment
• Option for mould up to 300mm high

KEY USES
• Compaction of asphaltic paving material to a
target mixture density or void content
• Assessment of mixture compactibility
• SHRP Superpave asphalt mixture design
• Preparation of cylindrical test specimens