Performing A Typical Binder Ignition Test - Gilson HM-378 Operating Manual

Gilson Company, Inc.
• Once the furnace reaches programmed setpoint
temperatures, it will maintain these temperatures
awaiting initiation of a Binder Ignition Test.
• The furnace should be preheated for at least one hour
prior to testing a sample.

7.3 Performing a Typical Binder Ignition Test

1. Preheat hot-mix asphalt samples in a separate labo-
ratory oven to 100°C to facilitate even distribution of
the material in the sample basket. Even distribution
is essential to obtaining good test results.
2. Insure that a filter is properly installed and is not
clogged or blinded from previous tests to inhibit air
flow. Check the filter before each test.
3. Insure all program settings are correct, as noted
above.
4. Remove the pre-heated asphalt sample from the
laboratory oven and place on the sample basket,
distributing the material as evenly as possible. Even
distribution is key to obtaining good test results.
5. Place the sample basket with sample into the tray, and
place the cover over the basket. The cover must be
in place to prevent sample loss and possible damage
to the elements (see Figure 1 for details on sample
tray assembly).
WARNING!
ALWAYS use heat-resistant gloves and a face shield
when operating the furnace. Long hair should be tied
back or covered and loose clothing should be secured.
6. Using the loading fork provided, place the Sample Tray,
Basket, and Lid assembly into the furnace, centering
it on the hearth plates. Close the door, checking to be
sure that the locking pin has engaged the electronic
door lock mechanism.
7. Immediately press the <CONTINUE> key. CONT will
appear on the display. The door will lock automatically
and the exhaust fan will turn on (if not on already).
WARNING!
DO NOT FAIL to press the <CONTINUE> key once
the sample is loaded. If this key is not pressed, the
sample will begin ignition with the door unlocked.
The automatic safety door lock will not be activated,
and DANGER of severe burns or injury will exist if
the door is opened.
8. The display will alternate between bo (burn-out set
point) and the actual main chamber temperature. To
check after-burner temperature, press <2>. AFTb will
alternate display with the after-burner temperature.
When the main chamber temperature reaches the
burn-out setpoint, the display will alternate between
TEST and the actual main chamber temperature. The
onset of ignition can be confirmed by observation of
flames in the chamber FROM A DISTANCE via the
small hole in the front of the chamber.
WARNING!
NEVER leave the furnace unattended near the end
of firing! Gilson cannot guarantee the furnace against
over-firing even though the controller is automatic.
The operator assumes full responsibility for shutting
the furnace off at the proper time.
9. Once ignition occurs, the temperature of the main cham-
ber will rise a minimum of 20°C above burn-out set point
and is controlled only by the amount of oxygen allowed to
enter the furnace. During this time the controller cannot
maintain a constant temperature in the main chamber.
When ignition is nearing completion, the chamber will
return to the burn-out set point temperature, and the
Hold Time timer will begin. The display will alternate
between HOLd and the time remaining. Once the time
has expired, the door lock will release automatically
and a beeping alarm will sound. Press <ANY> key
except <STOP> to silence the alarm. The controller
will automatically begin to bring the furnace to pre-heat
conditions in preparation for the next test.
NOTE: If the temperature does not rise at least
20°C above the burn-out set point, i.e., ignition does
not occur, the controller will wait 10 minutes before
proceeding to CPLT and unlocking the door.
10. Carefully remove the Sample Tray Assembly the furnace
using the fork. Place it on the cooling stand, and remove
the cover. Check the sample to insure that is free of
coke. Coke is the solid residual of the binder after all
volatile material has been removed. If Coke remains,
replace the cover and return the assembly to the fur-
nace in "PREHEAT" mode until Coke is absent upon
re-inspection. Adjust program Hold Time for subsequent
tests as necessary. Larger sample quantities and larger
binder contents will require longer Hold Times.
NOTE: If it is necessary to return sample to furnace,
DO NOT press <CONTINUE>. This will initiate
another test cycle.
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Gilson Binder Ignition System: HM-378