Marshall Stability Test Apparatus

About Marshall Stability Test Apparatus

A Marshall Stability Test Apparatus is a standard laboratory equipment used to determine the stability and flow characteristics of bituminous (asphalt) mixes. It plays a crucial role in road construction, pavement design, and quality control testing by evaluating the resistance of bitumen mix to plastic deformation under load.

Key Features:

• Designed as per ASTM D1559, ASTM D6927, AASHTO T245 standards
• Motorized loading unit with capacity up to 5000 kgf / 50 kN
• Fixed loading speed of 50.8 mm/min (5.08 cm/min)
• Equipped with proving ring / load cell and flow measurement dial gauge
• Sturdy two-column frame with adjustable crosshead
• Available in analog and digital models
• Durable construction suitable for laboratory and field testing

Working Principle:

The apparatus measures the maximum load (stability) a compacted bituminous specimen can withstand at a standard temperature of 60C. Simultaneously, it measures flow value, which indicates deformation under load.

The test helps determine the optimum bitumen content for a mix based on traffic and load conditions.

Applications:

• Highway and road construction projects
• Asphalt and bitumen testing laboratories
• Quality control in civil engineering works
• Research institutes and educational labs
• Government and infrastructure agencies

Standard Accessories:

• Marshall moulds (101.6 mm dia 76 mm height)
• Compaction rammer (4.5 kg with 457 mm fall)
• Breaking head assembly with flow meter provision
• Proving ring / load cell
• Dial gauge (0.01 mm least count)
• Compaction pedestal and extraction tools
• Water bath (optional)

Technical Specifications (Typical):

• Capacity: 050 kN
• Test speed: 50.8 mm/min
• Specimen size: Up to 25 mm aggregate size
• Power supply: 220240V, 50Hz, Single Phase
• Measurement: Stability (kN) & Flow (mm)

Advantages:

• Accurate evaluation of asphalt mix strength and durability
• Helps optimize binder content for pavement design
• Widely accepted and standardized testing method
• Reliable and repeatable results