Gilson SP-55 Quartermaster Operating Manual

Quartermaster™ Asphalt Sample Divider
AASHTO R 47

introDuction:

The SP-55 Quartermaster™ Asphalt Sample Divider is a
fixed, four-chute splitter with a gate-release hopper designed
to reduce bulk samples of hot-mix asphalt and aggregate
materials to four equal specimens. Aggregate materials larg-
er than 2in or hot-mix asphalt of insufficient temperature to
be free-flowing may cause bridging in the fixed chutes, caus-
ing blockages and uneven sample distributions. Splitting ac-
curacy can only be as good as the methods employed. We
suggest following the guidelines in ASTM and AASHTO pro-
cedures to achieve accurate, representative samples.

ASSembly:

1. Place the base unit of the Quartermaster™ Asphalt
Sample Divider with four adjustable threaded feet on a
smooth, rigid surface.
2. Place a level across the corners of the base unit, and ad-
just the threaded feet so the base is stable and level.
3. Place the hopper section of the Sample Divider on top of
the base. Verify the assembled unit remains stable and
level.
4. Slide the four included MA-950 Galvanized Pails under
the base, so that each makes contact with two adjacent
legs and is positioned beneath the chutes. The handles
of the buckets should be facing away from the center of
the unit for ease of handling after splitting.
5. Close the hopper by swinging both hopper doors upward
and engaging the release handle under the hopper door
catch mechanism.

oPerAting inStructionS:

1. Check that the hopper doors are closed and secured with
the handle/door catch mechanism.
PHone: 800-444-1508
740-548-7298
SP-55
P.O. Box 200, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035-0200
e-mail: customerservice@gilsonco.com
oPerAting mAnuAl
2. Obtain the aggregate or hot-mix asphalt sample to be
quartered. (See WARNING!)
3. Place the sample into the hopper, distributing evenly as
you pour. Make sure the sample is level from side-to-side
and from front to back with a small scoop or trowel.
4. Make sure all four buckets are positioned properly below
each corner of the Sample Divider base.
5. Turn the Release Handle in a smooth, quick motion, al-
lowing the hopper gates to open simultaneously.
6. Remove samples for testing.
Website: www.globalgilson.com
SP-55
(Continued on back.)
Rev: 05/03/2011
FAX: 800-255-5314
740-548-5314