No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording, or information storage and retrieval
systems, for any purpose without the express written permission of
Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.
Superpave is a trademark of the Strategic Highway Research
11300 Sanders Drive, Suite 7
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742
Fax: 916.631.0541
Troxler European Subsidiary
Troxler Electronics GmbH
Gilchinger Strasse 33
D.82239 Alling nr. Munich, Germany
Phone: ++49.8141.71063
Fax: ++49.8141.80731
E-mail: troxler@t-online.de
NOTE
To locate an independent, Troxler-authorized service
partner near you, call 1.877.TROXLER
(1.877.876.9537).
Troxler NTO iii
Page 4
EU DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Application of Council EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, 93/42/EEC,
and Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC – as amended by
93/68/EEC.
Standards to which Conformity is Declared:
EN 61010–1+A2
EN 61326–1:1998
Manufacturer: Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.
P.O. Box 12057
3008 Cornwallis Road
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
27709
U.S.A.
Apparatus: Model 4730 and 4731
Asphalt Ignition Oven
Year of Declaration: 2000
iv
Page 5
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Before using the Troxler NTO (New Technology Oven) Asphalt
Content Ignition Oven or “oven,” read this manual carefully. Of
particular importance is the safety information in Chapter 2. Do not
attempt to op
safety warnings posted on the unit. Troxler stresses that the user is solely responsible for ensuring the safe use of the oven. Neither the
manufacturer, its subsidiary, distributors, or representatives can
assume responsibility for any mishaps, damage, or personal injury
that may occur from failure to observe the safety warnings in this
manual and posted on the unit.
The oven allows measurement of the asphalt content of asphalt
mixes. After ignition testing, the remaining aggregates may be used
as sample for gradation measurements. The Troxler NTO Manual of Operation and Instruction describes the installation, setup, and
operation of the system.
erate the oven before reading this manual and the
Troxler NTO v
Page 6
CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS MANUAL
Throughout this manual, symbols and special formatting are used to
reveal the purpose of the text as follows:
WARNING
Indicates conditions or procedures that, if not followed
correctly, may cause personal injury.
CAUTION
Indicates conditions or procedures that, if not followed
correctly, may cause equipment damage.
NOTE
Indicates important information that must be read to
ensure proper operation.
〈KEY〉Angle brackets and a different typestyle indicate a
key or character (number or letter) to press on the
oven keypad. For example, “Press 〈START〉”
means to press the key labeled START.
DISPLAY A different typestyle is used in text to indicate
information or messages displayed on the oven.
DISPLAY - Typestyle
and shading used to
simulate the oven
display
♦Diamonds indicate a list of things needed (such as
equipment) or things to know.
Check marks indicate the performance of an action.
With lists of check marks, follow the instructions in
the order of the check marks.
fTriangles indicate that more than one option is
available. Carefully select the option that applies.
This chapter provides a brief overview of the Troxler NTO (New
Technology Oven) Asphalt Content Ignition Oven. This information
includes a list of the parts and accessories, as well as instructions for
unpacking and inspecting the oven upon receipt.
The two major components of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) are the
asphalt binder and the aggregate. Thus, accurate measurements of
the percent asphalt content (%AC) and aggregate gradation are
required for HMA quality control and assurance. The Troxler NTO
Asphalt Content Ignition Oven allows safe, quick, and reliable
measurement of the %AC of HMA samples and creates samples for
aggregate gradation measurements.
The oven employs a method developed by the National Center for
Asphalt Technology (NCAT) called pyrolysis, or ignition. In this
method, an HMA sample of known mass is prepared. The asphalt
binder in the sample is then burned. The change in sample mass
indicates the %AC. Standard sieve analysis of the remaining clean
aggregate provides the gradation.
The ignition oven test method is covered by the provisions of the
American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard
D 6307, Standard Test Method for Asphalt Content of Hot-Mix Asphalt by Ignition Method.
The oven can also be used in conjunction with a nuclear asphalt
content gauge, such as Troxler Models 3241–C, 3241 USS, and
3242. The nuclear gauge provides a fast method of measuring the
%AC when the aggregate gradation is not needed. The oven can be
used when a job requires aggregate gradation.
The nuclear gauge test method is covered by the provisions of the
ASTM Standard D 4125, Standard Test Method for Asphalt Content of Bituminous Mixtures by the Nuclear Method. For more
information on Troxler's asphalt content gauges, contact your
Troxler representative.
1–2
Page 13
WARNING
Do not attempt to operate the oven before reading this
manual and the safety warnings posted on the unit.
Troxler stresses that the user is solely responsible for
ensuring the safe use of the oven. Neither the
manufacturer, its subsidiary, distributors, nor
representatives can assume responsibility for any
mishaps, damage, or personal injury which may occur
from failure to observe the safety warnings in Chapter 2
of this manual and posted on the unit.
1. INTRODUCTION
Troxler NTO 1–3
Page 14
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
The Troxler NTO Manual of Operation and Instruction provides
detailed information about the oven. The manual includes product
safety information, as well as instructions for selecting an
installation site, installing the oven, and using the oven to burn
HMA samples and to store sample data.
This manual is organized as follows:
Chapter 1, Introduction to the Troxler NTO – Provides a brief
overview of the oven and i
and accessories, and instructions for unpacking and inspection.
ts features, as well as a list of parts
Chapter 2, Product Safety Information – Includes inform
the safe use of the oven.
Chapter 3, Installation – Contains instructions for i
oven, including the criteria for selecting an installation site.
Chapter 4, Setup and Operation – Describes the oven keypad, and
provides instructions for setting u
shutting down the oven.
Chapter 5, Main Menu – Provides a detailed description of the
oven software, including examples and explanations of the
control menus.
Chapter 6, Calibration – In
correction factors, and for calibrating the integrated scale.
Chapter 7, Handling Data – Contains instructions on creating and
using project files and desc
download data.
Appendix A, Maintenance and Service – Provides maintenance
and service information, as well as instructions on basic
troubleshooting.
Appendix B, Menu Map – Shows a map of the menus in the oven
control software.
cludes instructions for determining
p, starting, operating, and
ribes how to view, erase, print, and
nstalling the
ation on
Appendix C, Specifications – Contains the environmental,
performance,
oven.
1–4
electrical, and mechanical specifications of the
Page 15
FEATURES OF THE TROXLER NTO
The oven incorporates a number of features that provide
unparalleled efficiency, safety, usability, and flexibility.
The oven heats the HMA sample using an infrared (IR) element.
The use of IR radiation serves two purposes: it limits the heating of
the aggregate material in the HMA sample while producing a very
efficient and clean burn process.
The oven can be powered from a 120 V ac, 50/60 Hz, 12 A source
(Model 4730) or from a 208–240 V ac, 50/60 Hz, 12/13 A source
(Model 4731). The oven is therefore convenient for use in
construction trailers, where power sources may be limited.
The oven door lock helps ensure operator safety. The oven monitors
the state of the door, and will not apply electrical power to the IR
element if the door is open. The oven door is locked automatically
at the start of a burn cycle. The door remains locked until five
minutes have elapsed since the chamber temperature has peaked or
since the 〈ABORT〉 key was pressed.
1. INTRODUCTION
The sample basket assembly is designed to provide operator safety
while handling HMA samples, and to ensure an even burn of the
asphalt binder. A basket carrier is provided for lifting the baskets in
and out of the oven. A sample safety cage shields the hot sample
basket assembly while the asphalt sample cools.
The integrated scale continuously monitors the sample mass loss
during a burn cycle.
The oven features an Auto-Tare function that automatically tares
(zeroes) the integrated scale when no mass is present. The oven
software also enables the operator to tare the scale manually, to
calibrate the scale, and to verify the scale calibration.
The oven keypad and internal logic provide control, data storage,
and output flexibility. The keypad enables the operator to set up and
operate the oven, to store sample data, to calibrate and verify the
integrated scale, and to enter correction factors.
The oven includes an Auto-Timer function that can preheat the oven
automatically based upon start and stop dates and times entered by
the operator.
Troxler NTO 1–5
Page 16
The oven features two audible indicators, an internally mounted
beeper and a louder annunciator mounted on the rear panel. The
beeper emits a short beep in response to a valid keystroke on the
oven keypad. It sounds a longer beep when the operator presses an
invalid key or the oven displays an error message. The annunciator
sounds when the door is unlocked at the completion of a burn cycle.
The red BURN COMPLETE indicator on the front panel also
lights when the door is unlocked.
The internal printer enables the operator to print sample data and
system status information, either automatically or manually.
Two ports, a serial communications port and an auxiliary port, are
mounted on the rear panel of the oven. The serial communications
port, the leftmost of the two ports (as viewed from the rear of the
oven), is used to output data to a serial device, such as a computer
or printer. The auxiliary (right) port is intended for factory use only.
The oven stores up to twenty user-defined aggregate correction factors (ACFs), which are percentage values used to adjust the
measured asphalt content for specific aggregates.
During a burn cycle, the oven displays measurement units of
percent loss (%Loss). The %Loss measurement is the difference
between the sample weights before and after the burn cycle,
expressed as a percentage of the starting mass.
The oven offers two burn modes. The burn time can be set manually
by the operator (Program Time mode), or it can be adjusted
automatically by the oven (Auto-Control mode). In Auto-Control
mode, the oven limits the burn time according to the cutoff limit
specified by the operator. The cutoff limit can be defined in grams
or as a percentage.
The oven features three burn profiles, which define the operation of
the oven during a burn cycle. The Default profile should be used for
most materials; the two optional profiles can be used to optimize the
burn cycle for less standard mixtures.
The oven can store data for up to 200 HMA samples. Sample data is
stored in project files created by the operator. Up to twenty project
files can be defined. Sample data is stored in the active project file,
either manually using identification numbers entered by the
operator, or automatically using the Auto-Store function.
1–6
Page 17
PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
Figure 1–1 shows the Troxler NTO and its accessories. Use this
figure to locate and identify the followi
1. The oven contains the electronics and IR heating element to
burn the asphalt binder from the aggregate. The oven includes
an internal printer used to print sample data and system status
information. An integrated scale (not shown) monitors mass
loss throughout the burn cycle. The oven’s exhaust duct vents
fumes produced during the ignition to a suitable ventilation
system.
2. The hearth plate (not shown) provides even distribution of heat
beneath the sample baskets.
3. The basket cover fits over the sample baskets.
4. The stackable sample baskets (2) hold the HMA sample for
burning.
5. The catch pan catches aggregate particles that may fall through
the bottom of the sample basket(s).
ng parts:
1. INTRODUCTION
6. The basket carrier provides added safety when moving the
sample basket assembly in and out of the oven.
7. The sample safety cage (not shown) shields the hot sample
basket assembly while the asphalt sample cools.
8. The soft-bristled brush (not shown) is used to brush soot from
the turbine blades of the oven’s exhaust fan when cleaning the
exhaust plenum box.
9. Insulated gloves* (not shown) protect hands and forearms
when moving the heated sample basket(s).
10. The Troxler NTO Manual of Operation and Instruction (not
shown) details how to operate and maintain the oven.
* Operators should verify that the insulated gloves meet local
safety laws and specifications.
Troxler NTO 1–7
Page 18
S
OVEN
CIRCUIT BREAKER/
POWER SWITCH
BASKET
COVER
SAMPLE
BASKETS
INTERNAL
PRINTER
LOCK ARMS
KEYPAD
EXHAUST
DISPLAY
DUCT
ACCES
PANEL
CATCH
PAN
BASKET CARRIER
Figure 1–1. Parts and Accessories
1–8
Page 19
UNPACKING AND INSPECTING
NOTE
To ensure the safe return of the oven to Troxler for
repair or maintenance, please keep the original shipping
box, pallet, and all packing materials. The box folds for
easy storage.
Upon receiving the oven from the factory:
1. Perform a complete inspection and inventory. If the shipping
case and/or any other part or accessory appears damaged, notify
the carrier and your Troxler representative immediately.
2. Cut the nylon bands from around the carton, then lift off the top
half of the box, and remove all accessory items.
3. Remove any packing material packed around the oven or inside
the oven chamber. Save all packing material, including the
plastic sheet used to cushion the inside of the chamber door
during shipping, for reuse if the oven needs to be returned for
service or repair. The box folds for easy storage.
4. Remove the bottom half of the box.
1. INTRODUCTION
Troxler NTO 1–9
Page 20
5. Check the shipping case for the following items:
♦ Basket carrier
♦ Insulated gloves*
♦ Sample safety cage
♦ Exhaust duct
♦ Duct adapter, 3- to 4-inch
♦ Clamp, 4-inch hose
♦ Brush, soft-bristle
♦ Troxler NTO Manual of Operation and Instruction
♦ Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Information Kit
6. Inspect the outside surfaces of the oven and accessories for
damage.
* Operators should verify that the insulated gloves meet local
safety laws and specifications.
1–10
Page 21
CHAPTER 2
PRODUCT SAFETY INFORMATION
This chapter provides basic product safety information concerning
the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven, as well as cautions
and warnings related to the safe use of the oven.
The Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven is designed to be
safe for the user. The system uses modern, refractory ceramic fiber
(RCF) materials to provide highly efficient insulation of the heated
chambers. This material is completely enclosed, and should present
no health risk to the operator during normal use in accordance with
this manual. RCF can present a potential health hazard if the fibers
become airborne and thus become respirable. Since, under normal
operating conditions, the design of the oven completely encloses
these materials, fibers should not become airborne during normal
use. Therefore, no special precautions are necessary when using the
oven to perform asphalt content analysis.
Special precautions should be taken during maintenance operations
or other activities that involve removal of the system sheet-metal
covers. These maintenance operations should be performed only by authorized, experienced maintenance personnel. They include
removal of the rear or top panels for troubleshooting, cleaning, or
making repairs.
During the performance of such maintenance operations, observe
the precautions set forth in the Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDSs) enclosed with the product. Wear respirators approved by
the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
to prevent possible inhalation of airborne ceramic fibers. Wear
gloves and long sleeve clothing to prevent irritation of the skin.
Wear safety goggles to prevent irritation of the eyes. Unplug the
oven from its power source before performing any maintenance
operations.
All maintenance operations should be performed with special effort
to minimize generating airborne fiber dust. Do not use compressed
air to clean and do not rub or wipe ceramic fiber surfaces. Although
no periodic cleaning of ceramic fiber surfaces is required, it is best
to use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high-efficiency particulate
air (HEPA) filter system to remove any debris from the surfaces of
the ceramic fiber, if desired. This applies to the outside or inside of
the primary, heated oven chamber.
2–2
Page 23
The oven is shipped with a packet of documentation that includes
MSDSs. In accordance with the Occupational Safety & Health
Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR
1910.1200), the MSDSs are designed to communicate important
information about the safe handling of refractory ceramic fiber
products, recommended protective measures, and health hazard
information.
For disposal information, please refer to the MSDSs enclosed with
the product. If you have any questions regarding these MSDSs,
please contact the nearest Troxler Service Center, as listed on
page iii.
2. PRODUCT SAFETY
Troxler NTO 2–3
Page 24
CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
Lower Rear of Oven (Identification of Interconnects)
♦ Cable for 120 V ac, 50/60 Hz (Model 4730) or 208–240
V ac, 50/60 Hz (Model 4731) power to the oven.
♦ The oven power source must have a reliable earth
ground connection, or a hazardous condition may occur
during oven operation.
♦ Two 9-pin serial interfaces: the left interface is used to
connect the oven to a serial device, such as a computer
or printer; the right interface is for factory use only.
Upper Right of Oven Door
♦ Surfaces of the oven are hot and may cause burns to
unprotected skin.
2–4
♦ Place oven on a non-combustible surface and 15 cm
(6 in.) away from any structure or other items.
♦WARNING – Before opening the door, look through
the window to ensure that there is no combustion
occurring inside the oven.
♦ Always use the door as a shield when opening the door.
♦ If any flames appear at the top of the door, close it
immediately.
♦ When operating the unit, always wear protective
clothing.
Upper Sides of Oven
♦ Upper surfaces of the oven are hot and may cause burns
to unprotected skin.
♦ Place oven 15 cm (6 in.) away from any structure or
other items.
Page 25
Top of Oven
♦ Upper surfaces of the oven are hot and will cause burns
to unprotected skin.
♦ During normal operations, the chamber door cannot be
opened during a burn cycle. However, if the door lock
should fail or be defeated by the operator, it may be
possible to open the door while combustion is occurring
inside the oven. If this should happen, flames may exit
from the top of the door. Therefore, there must be at
least 91 cm (3 ft) of clearance above the oven.
2. PRODUCT SAFETY
♦WARNING – The unit must not be operated without an
exhaust system. Refer to Chapter 3 for information on
proper install
ation of the e
xhaust system.
Upper Rear of Electronics Module (Battery Holder)
♦ Carefully note the polarity of the DL2450 lithium
battery when installing it in the battery holder. A battery
may explode or leak if installed improperly.
♦ Do not dispose of batteries in a fire. A battery may
explode if exposed to excessive heat.
♦ If the lithium battery should leak, do not allow the
contents to come into contact with skin or eyes. If it
does, immediately wash the affected area with cold
water and seek medical advice.
Troxler NTO 2–5
Page 26
SAFETY WARNINGS
The Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven is a safe, durable
unit. Troxler cannot anticipate every example of improper or
unauthorized use of this oven that may lead to malfunction or
accident. If a particular use is not specifically mentioned in this
manual as authorized, then assume that the use is unauthorized and
improper.
Always follow the safety warnings in this manual and the safety
procedures of your laboratory/company. Refer to the MSDSs
provided with each oven for further safety information. Troxler
recommends the following safety precautions.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
♦ The installation of t
code rulings.
♦ Troxler recommends the installation of a carbon monoxide
detector.
n must comply with local building
he ove
♦ Keep the area around the oven clear and free from all
combustible materials, gasoline, and other flammable vapors
and liquids. Failure to do so could cause fire or explosion.
♦ Place the oven on a level, sturdy, fireproof surface.
♦ The ambient temperature should be between 10 and 50 °C (50
and 122 °F), and the relative humidity should be less than 92%.
♦ Allow at least 15 cm (6 in.) between the oven and other vertical
structures.
♦ During normal operations, the chamber door cannot be opened
during a burn cycle. However, if the door lock should fail or be
defeated by the operator, it may be possible to open the door
while combustion is occurring inside the oven. If this should
happen, flames may exit from the top of the door. Therefore,
there must be at least 91 cm (3 ft) of clearance above the oven.
♦ Locate the oven no more than 1.2 m (4 ft) from the required
electrical power source (see Appendix C). Ensure that the
distance does
source
2–6
not place stress on the power cord. The power
must be wired by a qualified electrician.
Page 27
♦ Connect the oven to a power source that provides proper voltage
and current (see Appendix C). Ensure that the oven, power
source, and ground co
de requirements are compatible.
♦ The oven power source must have a reliable earth ground
connection, or a hazardous condition may occur during oven
operation.
♦ Keep all cords away from the top and sides of the oven.
♦ Burning asphalt releases carbon monoxide. Ensure that the oven
is properly ventilated.
♦ Locate the oven in a well-ventilated room with access to a fume
hood or other suitable ventilation system. If the exhaust duct
shipped with the oven is used, locate the oven no morethan
4.6 m (15 ft) from the exhaust outlet. Be sure to sufficiently
insulate the exhaust duct. Follow local code for exhaust outlet.
♦ Do not restrict the airflow in and around the bottom of the oven.
♦ Do not place any objects, other than those specified in this
manual, into the oven chamber.
♦ Remove all extraneous material in or around the oven.
♦ Keep the area around the oven clear and free from all
combustible materials, gasoline, and other flammable vapors
and liquids. Failure to do so could cause fire or explosion.
♦ Do not place anything on top of the oven.
♦ Never hit, puncture, or abuse the oven interior.
♦ Do not override the door lock.
♦ This oven should only be operated by personnel who are
familiar with the proper operation of the device.
♦ Do not use the oven for cooking, cleaning, or testing materials
other than asphalt or aggregate as defined by this manual.
2. PRODUCT SAFETY
♦ Do not attempt to dry any aggregates mixed with volatile
chemicals.
♦ Obtain and use appropriate safety equipment: heat-resistant
gloves that can withstand 650 °C, and a face shield to protect
the face.
Troxler NTO 2–7
Page 28
S
S
♦ Troxler recommends wearing a face shield when handling hot
substances and operating the oven.
♦ Always wear heat-resistant gloves when handling hot
substances.
♦ Use the basket carrier to move hot sample baskets (see Figure
ys
2–1). Alwa
body, with the handle between your body and the open oven
door. This helps prevent the operator from backing into the hot
insulation on the inside surface of the door.
♦ Use care when loading and unloading the oven to avoid
touching or scraping the hearth plate, chamber sides, or IR
element.
♦ Avoid bodily contact with the IR element.
♦ Step away from the oven during ignition.
♦ If you see or smell smoke, discontinue use until the cause is
determined and corrected.
♦ Before opening the oven door, ensure that there is no glare on
the window due to light sources. If there is a glare, turn OFF
enough lights in work area to eliminate glare. Standing at a safe
distance from the oven, look into the window on the front of the
oven. If NO flame is visible, open the door cautiously.
keep the basket carrier to the left side of your
HANDLE
2–8
CAUTION
THE
E ARE NOT HANDLE
Figure 2–1. Basket Carrier
Page 29
♦ Following a burn cycle, cover the asphalt sample and basket
assembly with the sample safety cage while the sample cools.
♦ To prevent personal injury, do not touch the interior or exterior
oven surfaces (except door and control panel) during use.
♦ Depending upon environmental and other conditions, the oven
can take several hours to cool off after power is removed from
the IR element. Do not touch the interior or exterior oven
surfaces (except door and control panel) for an extended period
after use.
♦ Only qualified personnel (Troxler service representatives)
should perform service and maintenance on the oven when
disassembly is required.
♦ Always unplug the oven before performing service or
maintenance.
♦ Allow the oven to cool completely before performing service or
maintenance.
♦ Soot may build up in the exhaust connector and pipe. Troxler
recommends that the exhaust plenum box be cleaned after every
30 burn cycles, as described on page A–5.
2. PRODUCT SAFETY
Troxler NTO 2–9
Page 30
NOTES
2–10
Page 31
A
CHAPTER 3
INSTALLATION
This chapter provides instructions on site selection and installation
of the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven.
CONTENTS
Site Selection................................................................................ 3–2
em Installation.......................................................... 3–5
3. INST
LLATION
Troxler NTO 3–1
Page 32
SITE SELECTION
After unpacking and inspecting the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content
Ignition Oven as described in Chapter 1, select a suitable site for
installation. Apply
the oven:
♦ The oven must be installed in a well-ventilated room with
access to a fume hood or other suitable ventilation system. If the
exhaust duct shipped with the oven is used, locate the oven no morethan 4.6 m (15 ft) from the exhaust outlet. Be sure to
insulate the exhaust duct sufficiently. Follow local codes for
proper installation of the exhaust outlet.
♦ Locate the oven no more than 1.2 m (4 ft) from the required
electrical power source (see Appendix C). Ensure that the
distance does
source
♦ Place the oven on a level, sturdy, fireproof surface.
♦ Locate the oven at least 15 cm (6 in.) from other vertical
structures.
♦ During normal operations, the chamber door cannot be opened
during a burn cycle. However, if the door lock should fail or be
defeated by the operator, it may be possible to open the door
while combustion is occurring inside the oven. If this should
happen, flames may exit from the top of the door. Therefore,
there must be at least 91 cm (3 ft) of clearance above the oven.
♦ Do not restrict the airflow in and around the bottom of the oven.
♦ Do not install the oven near combustibles, such as gasoline or
paint.
♦ Keep all cords away from the top and sides of the oven.
♦ The ambient temperature should be between 10 and 50 °C (50
and 122 °F), and the relative humidity should be less than 92%.
must be wired by a qualified electrician.
the following criteria when selecting a site for
not place stress on the power cord. The power
3–2
Page 33
A
OVEN INSTALLATION
The oven requires no operator assembly. To install the oven, follow
the steps below:
CAUTION
Troxler has optimized the airflow in the oven to ensure
efficient combustion. Do not attach the exhaust duct
directly to a central exhaust unit. An increase in suction
due to external exhaust fans can affect the oven
performance.
1. Following the site selection guidelines on the previous page, set
the oven in place.
2. Using the adjustable feet, level the oven from front to back and
from side to side.
3. Remove all packaging material from the oven chamber,
including the pads under the rails.
4. Unpack the hearth plate and place it in the center of the oven
chamber resting on the two rails. Ensure that the hearth plate
does not touch the sides of the chamber.
5. Position the circuit breaker/power switch, found in the lower
left of the oven front panel (see Figure 1–1) to the OFF (down)
position.
6. Connect the oven exhaust sy
section.
stem as de
scribed in the following
3. INST
LLATION
Troxler NTO 3–3
Page 34
7. Connect the oven to the required power source (refer to
Appendix C).
WARNING
The power source must have a reliable earth ground
connection, or a hazardous condition may occur
during oven operation.
NOTE
On 240 V ac (Model 4731) ovens, a connector must be
installed on the oven power cord. In the U.S. and
Canada, the connector must meet ANSI/UL 498 safety
requirements (NEMA Type 6-20P). In Europe, the
connector must meet IEC 320 safety requirements.
Refer to the Electrical Specifications section on page C–4
for the curr
The Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven is a
precision instrument. Troxler recommends using an
uninterruptible power supply or surge protection on the
oven’s input power source.
8. Set up the oven as described in Chapter 4.
en
t and voltage ratings for the oven.
NOTE
3–4
Page 35
A
EXHAUST SYSTEM INSTALLATION
To ensure the safe and efficient operation of the oven, the oven
exhaust system must be installed according to the guidelines
contained in this section. These instructions apply to the installation
of either a Model 4730 (120 V ac) or 4731 (208–240 V ac) oven.
These guidelines were prepared according to the Uniform
Mechanical Code, Section 914(b). While every installation is
unique, these instructions provide general guidelines on proper
installation of the exhaust system. Refer to local building codes
and/or a licensed heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
contractor for further details.
The following figures illustrate the recommended methods of
exhausting the oven through an exterior wall penetration, a roof
penetration, or a fume hood.
NOTE
The Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven must
be placed at least 15 cm (6 in.) from other vertical
surfaces or structures.
3. INST
LLATION
Troxler NTO 3–5
Page 36
SEE FIGURE 3-4
ROOF
FLEXIBLE DUCT
(SUPPLIED BY TROXLER)
WORKBENCH OR TABLE
FLOOR
SEE FIGURE 3-2 OR 3-3
EXTERIOR WALL
TROXLER NTO
(MODEL 4730/4731)
6" MIN
Figure 3–1. Overall Schematic for Exterior
Wall and Roof Penetrations
3–6
Page 37
A
O
3
POINT OF
EXHAUST
18" MAX
SEE NOTE
4" DIA. GALVANIZED METAL DUCT, ELBOW AND CAP
(NO COMPONENT SHALL HAVE A DAMPER)
16" DIA MIN OPENING FOR COMBUSTIBLE WALL MATERIAL
8" DIA MIN OPENING FOR NON-COMBUSTIBLE WALL MATERIAL
4" FLEXIBLE METAL DUCT W/ CLAMP
15' LONG MAX (SUPPLIED BY TROXLER)
EXTERI
R WALL
18" MIN
GALVANIZED METAL
THIMBLE
NOTES:
1. Seal all joints between wall and thimble and between thimble
and duct with a high-temperature caulk.
2. The minimum thickness of all galvanized metal parts is 28
gauge, or that which is called for in local building codes,
whichever is thicker.
3. The overall length of all ducts should not exceed 4.6 m (15 ft)
from the top of the oven to the point of exhaust.
4. No component shall have a damper, screen, louver, or other
such device that may become clogged with soot over time.
3. INST
LLATION
5. Do not locate exhaust point near air intakes for building. Refer
to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor for
recommended/required distance.
6. Refer to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor
for more details.
Figure 3–2. Exterior Wall Penetration
Using a Metal Elbow and Cap
Troxler NTO 3–7
Page 38
4" DIA. GALVANIZED METAL WALL CAP WITH SCREEN
(NO COMPONENT SHALL HAVE A DAMPER)
16" DIA MIN OPENING FOR COMBUSTIBLE WALL MATERIAL
8" DIA MIN OPENING FOR NON-COMBUSTIBLE WALL MATERIAL
4" DIA FLEXIBLE METAL DUCT W/ CLAMP
15' MAX LENGTH(SUPPLIED BY TROXLER)
GALVANIZED METAL
THIMBLE
EXTERIOR WALL
AIRFLOW
NOTES:
1. Seal all joints between wall and thimble and between thimble
and duct with a high-temperature caulk.
2. The minimum thickness of all galvanized metal parts is 28
gauge, or that which is called for in local building codes,
whichever is thicker.
3. The overall length of all ducts should not exceed 4.6 m (15 ft)
from the top of the oven to the point of exhaust.
4. No component shall have a damper, screen, louver, or other
such device that may become clogged with soot over time.
5. Do not locate exhaust point near air intakes for building. Refer
to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor for
recommended/required distance.
6. Refer to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor
for more details.
Figure 3–3. Exterior Wall Penetration
Using a Metal Wall Cap with Screen
3–8
Page 39
A
G
)
ALVANIZED METAL CAP
4" DIA
(REMOVE ANY DAMPER FROM CAP)
4" DIA GALVANIZED METAL DUCT
(REMOVE ANY DAMPER FROM DUCT)
SEAL AGAINST MOISTURE (SEE NOTE 5)
9" (SEE NOTE 1)
9" (SEE NOTE 1)
GALVANIZED METAL THIMBLE
4" DIA FLEXIBLE METAL DUCT W/ CLAMP
15' MAX LENGTH(PROVIDED BY TROXLER)
ROOF
36" MIN
(SEE NOTE 3)
6" (SEE NOTE 2)
15 FT MAX
(SEE NOTE 6
NOTES:
1. Galvanized metal thimble must extend at least 23 cm (9 in.)
above and below roof.
2. Galvanized metal thimble must provide at least 15 cm (6 in.) of
clearance between the duct and the nearest combustible
material.
3. The point where exhaust exits the cap must be at least 91 cm
(36 in.) above the roof.
4. The minimum thickness of all galvanized metal parts is 28
gauge, or that which is called for in local building codes,
whichever is thicker.
5. Seal all joints between thimble and roof and between thimble
and duct with a high-temperature caulk.
6. The overall length of all ducts should not exceed 4.6 m (15 ft)
from the top of the oven to the point of exhaust.
7. Do not locate exhaust point near air intakes for building. Refer
to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor for
recommended/required distance.
8. No component shall have a damper, screen, louver, or other
such device that may become clogged with soot over time.
9. Refer to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor
for more details.
Figure 3–4. Roof Penetration
3. INST
LLATION
Troxler NTO 3–9
Page 40
POINT OF EXHAUST
ROOF
(SUPPLIED BY TROXLER)
WORKBENCH OR TABLE
FLOOR
FUME HOOD
FLEXIBLE DUCT
EXTERIOR WALL
TROXLER NTO
(MODEL 4730/4731)
6" MIN
NOTES:
1. Consult fume hood manufacturer regarding proper installation of
the hood.
2. Fasten 4-inch flexible duct to wall or fume hood so that the oven
exhausts under the hood. If the fume hood is equipped with a
fan or blower, place the end of the flexible duct at least 45 cm
(18 in.) away from the intake to the fan or blower.
3. The length of the flexible duct should not exceed 4.6 m (15 ft)
from the top of the oven to the point of exhaust.
4. No component shall have a damper, screen, louver, or other
such device that may become clogged with soot over time.
5. Do not locate exhaust point near air intakes for building. Refer
to local building codes and/or a licensed HVAC contractor for
recommended/required distance.
Figure 3–5. Exhausting to a Fume Hood
3–10
Page 41
CHAPTER 4
SETUP AND OPERATION
This chapter provides information on using the Troxler NTO
Asphalt Content Ignition Oven. It describes the oven keypad, and
provides procedures for starting up the oven and setting it up for the
first time, daily startup and operation, and shutting the oven down.
The procedures in this chapter are general in nature. More detailed
instructions are provided in Chapters 5 through 7.
Figure 4–1 shows the layout of the oven keypad. Table 4-1 lists the
function of each key.
4–2
ESC
YES
NO
PAPER
FEED
START
BACK
SPACE
7
4
1
0
TARE
MENU
9
8
6
5
3
2
.
ENTER
STORE
BORT
Asphalt
Ignition Oven
Figure 4–1. Oven Keypad
Page 43
Table 4-1. Oven Keys
KEY FUNCTION
Returns to the next higher-level menu without
updating or storing data. In response to yes/no
〈ESC〉
〈BACK SPACE〉
〈STATUS〉
〈MENU〉
〈YES〉
〈NO〉
〈↑〉, 〈↓〉
〈0〉 .. 〈9〉
〈.〉
〈ENTER〉
〈PAPER FEED〉
〈TARE〉
〈STORE〉
〈START〉
〈ABORT〉
questions, has the same effect as pressing 〈NO〉. If
an error message is displayed, the 〈ESC〉 key is
ignored.
Moves the cursor back one space.
Displays system status information. Available only
when the default screen (see page 4–5) is displayed.
Accesses the MAIN MENU. Available only when the
default screen (see page 4–5) is displayed. The
functions availabl
described in Chapters 5 – 7. A menu map is provided
in Appendix B.
Responds yes to yes/no questions.
Responds no to yes/no questions.
Scroll through menu options, view screens, or
through alphanumeric characters on input screens.
Also can be used to adjust the contrast of the display
when the default screen is displayed.
Enter numbers and access menu options.
Enters a decimal point.
Accepts data entry. Also prints burn cycle data for a
selected sample when viewing project data (see
page 7–6).
Commands the internal printer to advance the paper
by several lines (as opposed to the paper feed button
on the printer, which advances the paper as long as it
is pressed).
Tares the integrated scale. Available when the
default screen is displayed.
Manually stores data. Available when the default
screen is displayed following a burn cycle. If no burn
data is available for storage, an error message is
displayed.
Begins the burn cycle. Available when the default
screen is displayed.
Stops the burn cycle. The oven stops collecting burn
data and provides burn summary information.
Available only during a burn cycle.
e from the MAIN MENU are
Troxler NTO 4–3
4. SETUP & OPERATION
Page 44
PRINTER
Figure 4–2 shows the front panel of the oven printer. As shown in
the figure, the status LED and paper feed button are located in the
upper righ
The status LED is green when the printer is powered on. In the
event of a print error, the LED is amber.
The paper feed button activates the paper feed mechanism. Paper
will continue to feed until the button is released.
For information on replacing the printer paper and cartridge, refer to
Appendix A.
t corner of the printer.
NOTE
The paper feed button is disabled during normal
printing.
STATUS LED PAPER FEED
FINGER LOCATIONS FINGER LOCATIONS
TO OPEN DOOR TO OPEN DOOR
Figure 4–2. Printer Front Panel
4–4
Page 45
FIRST-TIME STARTUP AND SETUP
WARNING
To prevent personal injury or equipment damage, the
operator should become familiar with the safety
warnings and information in Chapter 2 before operating
the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven.
This section summarizes the initial startup and setup of the oven.
For more detailed instructions, see Chapters 5 through 7, as
referenced in this summary.
1. Ensure that the oven is installed as described in Chapter 3.
2. With the chamber door open, position the circuit
breaker/power switch, found in the lower left of the oven front
panel (see Figure 1–1), to the ON (up) position.
performs a s
screen. The second line of the default screen shows the current
chamber temperature (25
open chamber door prevents the IR element from heating. The
chamber must be at room temperature to verify the scale as
described in step 4.
elf-test, and then displays the following default
°
C in this example). Note that the
The oven
Proj PROJECT NAME
Temperature 25 C
Mass 0.0 g
11/17/2001 8:06 AM
NOTE
When the default screen is displayed, the up and down
arrow keys can be used to adjust the display contrast.
3. Press 〈MENU〉 to display the MAIN MENU.
Troxler NTO 4–5
4. SETUP & OPERATION
Page 46
4. From the MAIN MENU, press 〈5〉 to access the Scale Menu.
Press 〈3〉 to verify the scale. Follow the prompts to verify the
scale. For more information, refer to page 6–15.
NOTE
Scale verification should
5. Close the chamber door. The oven applies power to the IR
element.
6. Press 〈8〉 to access the Miscellaneous Menu. For more
information, refer to page 5–27.
be done at room tem
perature.
a. The oven is shipped with
Standard Time) stored in its memory. By default, the oven
displays the date in mm/dd/yyyy format (where mm =
month, dd = day, and yyyy = year) and the time in AM/PM
format. To change the date or time, or to change the display
format, press 〈1〉 to access the Time/Date Menu. For more information, refer to page 5–28.
b. The oven is shipped with
communications and auxiliary ports set to 9600 baud. To
change the baud rates, press 〈2〉. For more information,
refer to page 5–30.
c. As shipped, the oven is setup to
degrees Celsius. To select the desired temperature scale
(Celsius or Fahrenheit), press 〈3〉. For more information,
refer to page 5–31.
d. Press 〈4〉 to enter the customer na
information, refer to page 5–32.
e. The oven features a System Information function t
outputs a listing of operating parameters to the serial
communications port once each second, either anytime the
oven is powered on or only during a burn cycle. As shipped,
this feature is turned off. To turn the system information
output on or off, press 〈5〉. For more information, refer to
page 5–33.
the current date and time (Eastern
the baud rates for the serial
display temperatures in
me. For more
hat
f. Press 〈ESC〉 to return to the MAIN M
4–6
ENU.
Page 47
3. Press 〈1〉 to access the Burn Setup Menu. For more
information, refer to page 5–4.
a. Press 〈1〉
to acces
s the Burn Parameter Menu. For more
information, refer to page 5–4. Set the burn mode to
Program Time or
Auto-Control, as desired (the default
setting is Auto-Control). Set the desired burn time and/or
cutoff limit. Set the calculation type to bitumen-to-sample
or bitumen-to-aggregate, as desired (the default is bitumen-to-sample). Select the desired burn profile. Press 〈ESC〉 to
return to the Burn Setup Menu.
b. The oven features an Auto-Print function that, when turned
on, automatically prints sample data during a burn cycle. As
shipped, this function is turned on. To change the status of
the Auto-Print function, press 〈2〉. For more information,
refer to page 5–10.
c. The oven also includes an Auto-Store fu
nction that, wh
on, automatically stores sample data in the active project
upon completion of a burn cycle. As shipped, this function
is turned off. To turn the Auto-Store function on, press 〈3〉.
For more information, refer to page 5–12.
d. Press 〈ESC〉
to return to the MAIN M
ENU.
4. Press 〈2〉 to set up the Auto-Timer feature, if desired. The
Auto-Timer automatically powers the IR element on and off
based upon start and stop times and dates entered by the
operator. For more information, refer to page 5–15.
5. Deter
mine the aggregate c
orrection factors (ACFs), if necessary.
From the MAIN MENU, press 〈4〉 to access the Correction Menu. Use this menu to create and store up to twenty ACFs
and to select the active ACF. For more information, refer to Chapter 6.
en
4. SETUP & OPERATION
Troxler NTO 4–7
Page 48
DAILY STARTUP AND OPERATION
WARNING
To prevent personal injury or equipment damage, the
operator should become familiar with the safety
warnings and information in Chapter 2 before operating
the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven.
Troxler recommends the following method for burning samples. For
additional information, refer to the following ASTM or American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
(AASHTO) standards:
♦ASTM C 117 (AASHTO T11), Materials Finer Than 76-µm
(No. 200) Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing
♦ASTM C 136 (AASHTO T27), Sieve Analysis of Fine and
Coarse Aggregates
♦ASTM D 979 (AASHTO T168), Sampling Bituminous
Pavement Mixtures
1. Power the oven on as follows:
f If the Auto-Timer is not enabled, close the chamber door
and position the circuit breaker/power switch (shown in
Figure 1–1) to the ON (up
self-test, displays the default screen as shown on page 4–5,
then applies power to the IR element.
f
If the Auto-Timer is enabled and the chamber door is closed,
the oven will automatically apply power to the IR element
and exhaust fan at the designated start time. To set up the
Auto-Timer, see page 5–15.
Note that opening the cham
applying power to the IR element.
To ensure consistent, repeatable results, Troxler
recommends allowing the oven chamber to reach 400 °C
(750 °F) for a 120 V ac (Model 4730) unit or 375 °C
(707 °F) for a 240 V ac (Model 4731) unit before burning
a sample.
4–8
) position.
ber door prohibits the oven from
NOTE
The oven performs a
Page 49
2. Press 〈STATUS〉. From the status displays, check that the
following parameters and functions are configured as desired,
then press 〈ESC〉 to return to the default display. To change
any of these parameters, refer to the Burn Parameters
section that begins on page 5–4.
♦ Burn Mode
♦ Auto-Store function
♦ Auto-Print function
3. The oven stores sa
mple data in projects. To manage the oven's
project files, press 〈MENU〉 to access the MAIN MENU, then
press 〈3〉 to access the Project Menu. Use this menu to create
the active project or to select the active project from a list of
existing projects. For more information, refer to Chapter 7.
4. Use an extern
al scale to we
igh the sample basket assembly,
including the catch pan and sample basket cover. Record the
mass of the basket assembly (W
).
B
WARNING
Always wear heat-resistant gloves when handling
any hot substance.
5. Obtain a hot-mix asphalt (HMA) sample. The oven can burn
samples with a mass of up to 5000 g.
NOTE
The maximum HMA sample size for the oven is 5000 g.
6. If the mixture is not soft enough to separate with a spatula or
trowel, place it in a large, flat pan and warm in an oven set at
110 ± 5 °C until it can be separated or mixed. Split or quarter
the material in accordance with ASTM method C 702 until the
mass of material required for the test is obtained.
7. With the catch pan under the sample baskets, spread the sample
evenly in the two baskets. Do not place more than 2500 g in
either basket.
Troxler NTO 4–9
4. SETUP & OPERATION
Page 50
8. Place the basket cover over the top sample basket as shown in
Figure 4–3. Secure the sample baskets and cover to the catch
pan with the lock arms
. Ensure that the lock arms fully engage
the slots in the top sample basket.
9. Use the external scale to weigh the sample, sample baskets,
catch pan, and sample basket cover. Record the total mass (W
10. Press 〈START〉 to begin the process.
11. The oven requests the sample mass (WS) as shown below. To
determine the sample mass, subtract the basket assembly mass
(W
) recorded in step 4 from the total mass (WT) recorded in
B
step 9 (W
= WT – WB). Enter the sample mass and press
S
〈ENTER〉.
Enter Sample
Mass g
then press ENTER
).
T
BASKET
COVER
SAMPLE
BASKETS
CATCH
PAN
4–10
LOCK ARMS
Figure 4–3. Sample Basket Assembly
Page 51
WARNING
Always wear heat-resistant gloves when handling
any hot substance.
Troxler recommends wearing a face shield when the
oven door is open and when handling the sample.
Use the basket carrier to move hot sample baskets
(see Figure 2–1 on page 2–8). Always keep the basket
carrier to the left side of your body, with the handle
between your body and the open oven door. This
helps prevent the operator from backing into the hot
insulation on the inside surface of the door.
CAUTION
Use care when loading and unloading samples to avoid
touching or scraping the hearth plate, chamber sides, or
IR element.
12. The oven displays:
Place Sample in
chamber and close
door. xxx.x g
Then press START.
Wearing heat-resistant gloves and a face shield, use the
basket carrier to place the sample with the baskets and catch pan
on the hearth plate in the center of the oven. Ensure that the
hearth plate and sample baskets do not touch the chamber sides.
Close the oven door.
The third line of the display shows the total weight of the
sample, baskets, and catch pan as measured by the oven’s
internal scale. The displayed weight should be within ± 5 g of
the weight recorded in step 9. If it is not, ensure that the hearth
plate and sa
displayed weight is within ± 5 g of the weight recorded in
step 9, press 〈START〉 to
Troxler NTO 4–11
mple baskets do not touch the cham
gin the burn cycle.
be
ber sides. If the
4. SETUP & OPERATION
Page 52
WARNING
Step away from the oven during ignition. Do not
override the door lock. As the binder burns, the
oven display may indicate higher oven temperatures
than expected. This can be caused by the flame
contacting the oven thermocouple.
13. The oven locks the chamber door at the start of the burn cycle.
During the burn, the oven displays the chamber temperature, the
current sample mass and initial sample mass, the %Loss, and
the elapsed burn time:
Temperature XXX C
M. (XXXX.X) XXXX.X g
%Loss -XX.XX %
Burn Time XXX:XX
14. When the mass loss does not exceed 0.01% of the sample mass
(W
) for three consecutive one-minute periods, the burn is
S
complete. The oven displays the results of the burn as shown
below. If five minutes have elapsed since the chamber
temperature has peaked, the oven also releases the door lock,
lights the red BURN COMPLETE indicator, and sounds the
annunciator.
NOTE
The oven will not unlock the chamber door, light the
BURN COMPLETE indicator, or sound the annunciator
until five minutes have passed since the chamber
temperature has peaked. Typically, this five-minute
period will have elapsed before the burn is complete.
4–12
%AC XX.XX%
Loss XXX.Xg XX.XX%
Elapsed Time XXX:XX
press ENTER
Page 53
NOTE
To ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of
the oven, the exhaust system should be cleaned
regularly. The oven monitors the total burn time that
has elapsed since the last cleaning. Upon completion of a
burn cycle, if the burn time since the last cleaning
exceeds 1050 minutes, the oven displays:
WARNING! Clean NTO
Exhaust System. See
Operation Manual for
details. Press ENTER
When this warning is displayed, press 〈ENTER〉 to
continue with the remainder of this procedure. Upon
completion, clean the exhaust plenum box as described
on page A-5.
15. Press 〈ENTER〉 to return to the default
fIf the Auto-St
ore option is not enabled, the results can be
stored any time before the next burn by pressing 〈STORE〉
from the default screen, or by pressing 〈MENU〉, then
pressing 〈7〉 (Store). Refer to the Store Function sec
on page 5–24 for m
ore information.
NOTE
A project
must be active in order to store. For more
information on using projects, refer to Chapter 7.
f If the Auto-Store
option is enabled, the oven stores the
results as the next sample number in the active project file
and returns to the default screen. Refer to the Auto-Store
section on page 5–12 for instructions on enabling this
option.
16. Wearing glo
ves and a fac
e shield, use the basket carrier to
remove the sample from the oven and cover it with the sample
safety cage until the sample has cooled to room temperature.
17. Determine the aggregate gradation per ASTM standards C 117
and C 136 (AASHTO standards T11 and T27).
Troxler NTO 4–13
screen.
tion
4. SETUP & OPERATION
Page 54
DAILY SHUTDOWN
To power down the oven:
f If the Auto-Timer function is disabled, position the circuit
breaker/power switch (see Figure 1–1), to the OFF (down)
position. The front panel di
f If the Auto-Timer function is enabled, leave the circuit
breaker/power switch (see Figure 1–1) in the ON (up) position.
The oven will automatically power down the IR element and
exhaust fan at the designated stop time.
Depending upon environmental and other conditions,
the oven can take several hours to cool off after power is
removed from the IR element. Do not touch the interior
or exterior oven surfaces (except door and control panel)
for an extended period after use.
splay will be dark.
WARNING
4–14
Page 55
CHAPTER 5
MAIN MENU
The operator controls and configures the Troxler NTO Asphalt
Content Ignition Oven from the MAIN MENU, its submenus, and
displays. This chapter describes the many menu options.
CONTENTS
Oven Main Menu.......................................................................... 5–3
To prevent personal injury or equipment damage, the
operator should become familiar with the safety
warnings and information in Chapter 2 before operating
the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven.
The oven control software includes a number of options that can be
configured by the operator for greater flexibility of operation. To
access these options, press 〈MENU〉. The oven displays the MAIN MENU shown below. To select an item from the menu, press the
corresponding numeric key. Use the up and down arrows to scroll
through the menu options.
MAIN MENU ¦
1. Burn Setup
2. Auto-Timer
3. Project
5. MAIN MENU
MAIN MENU ¦
4. Corr. Factors
5. Scale
6. Status
MAIN MENU ¦
7. Store
8. Miscellaneous
For most of these items, pressing the corresponding numeric key
displays a submenu. Many of these submenus in turn have
submenus of their own. A complete map of these menus is provided
in Appendix B of this manual.
The remainder of this chapter describes each menu option, except
for the Project option, which is described in Chapter 7, and the
Corr. Factors and Scale options, which ar
Troxler NTO 5–3
e described in Chapter 6.
Page 58
BURN SETUP MENU
The Burn Setup Menu is used to configure the parameters of the
burn mode and to turn the Auto-Print and Auto-Store functions on or
off. To display the Burn Setup Menu, press 〈1〉 at the
MAIN MENU. The oven displays:
Burn Setup Menu
1. Burn Parameters
2. Auto-Print
3. Auto-Store
BURN PARAMETERS
The oven offers two burn modes: Program Time and Auto-Control.
In the Program Time mode, the burn time is set manually. In Auto-Control mode, the oven automatically completes a burn cycle when
the incremental mass decrease of the sample falls below a cutoff
limit specified by the operator.
The burn mode is selected from the Burn Parameter Menu. This
menu is also used to select the calculation type (bitumen-to-sample
or bitumen-to-aggregate) and burn profile (Default, Option 1, or
Option 2).
To access the Burn Parameter Menu, press 〈1〉 at the Burn Setup Menu. The oven displays the following screens. Use the up
and down arrows to scroll through the menu options.
5–4
Burn Parameter Menu¦
1. Burn Mode
2. Burn Time
3. Cutoff Limit
Burn Parameter Menu¦
4. Calculation Type
5. Profile Selection
Page 59
Burn Mode
To select the burn mode, press 〈1〉 at the Burn Parameter Menu.
The oven displays:
Choose Burn Mode
1. Program Time
2. Auto-Control
f To configure the oven to burn for a specified number of
minutes, press 〈1〉. The oven displays:
Enter Burn Time
between 15 and 720
minutes
then press ENTER
Use the numeric keys to set the burn time. To move the cursor
back one position, press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key. When
finished, press 〈ENTER〉. For more information on setting the
burn time, refer to the Burn Time section on the foll
f To select the Auto-Control
Burn Mode menu shown above. The oven controls the burn
time based on the cutoff limit. For instructions on setting the
cutoff limit, see page 5–7.
mode, press 〈2〉 at the Choose
owing page.
5. MAIN MENU
Troxler NTO 5–5
Page 60
Burn Time
Different asphalt mixes may require different burn times, depending
upon the sample %AC and the sample mass. The optimum burn
time can be determined by preparing a test sample of known %AC.
The test sample should closely represent the production mixture.
Burn the test sample until it is clean (free of coke, the solid binder
residue).
NOTE
Using the Auto-Control with cutoff limit of 0.01% or
0.1 g will accomplish a clean burn test sample.
Use the time required to produce a clean test sample as the burn
time. Refer to Table 5-1, which lists the minimum recommended
burn tim
To program the burn time manually, press 〈2〉 at the Burn Parameter Menu shown on page 5–4. The oven requests the burn
time between 15 and
burn time. To move the cursor back one position, press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key. When finished, press 〈ENTER〉. The oven sets the
new burn time, displays a brief confirmation message, and returns to
the Burn Parameter Menu.
es for select
ed sample masses.
minutes. Use the numeric keys to set the
720
NOTE
The oven will not store burn data for burn times greater
than 120 minutes. Burn data storage is available only for
burn times of 120 minutes or less.
Table 5-1. Recommended Minimum Burn Times
5–6
Sample
Mass (g)
1200 25 20
2000 35 30
3000 55 50
Minimum Burn Time* (min)
120 V Unit 240 V Unit
Page 61
Cutoff Limit
In the Auto-Control burn mode, the oven adjusts the burn time
according to the cutoff limit. The cutoff limit can be defined in grams or as a percentage of the initial sample mass. When the
change in the sample mass is less than the cutoff limit for three
consecutive minutes, the oven completes the burn cycle.
To enter a cutoff limit, press 〈3〉 at the Burn Parameter Menu
shown on page 5–4. The oven displays:
Cutoff Units
1. Grams
2. Percentage
CUTOFF LIMIT IN GRAMS. To enter the cutoff limit in grams,
press 〈1〉. The oven displa
ys:
5. MAIN MENU
Current Cutoff Limit
X.X g
do you want to
change Cutoff Limit?
f To exit without changing the cutoff limit, press 〈NO〉. The oven
returns to the Burn Parameter Menu.
f To change the cutoff limit, press 〈YES〉. The oven displays:
Enter Cutoff Limit
from 0.1 - 1.0g in
0.1g steps
then press ENTER
Use the numeric and decimal keys to enter a cutoff limit from
0.1 to 1.0 gram in increments of 0.1 gram. After entering the
cutoff limit, press 〈ENTER〉. The oven displays a brief
confirmation message and returns to the Burn Parameter Menu.
Troxler NTO 5–7
Page 62
CUTOFF LIMIT AS A PERCENTAGE. To enter the cutoff limit
as a percentage of the initial sample mass, press 〈2〉 at the Cutoff Units menu shown on page 5–7. The oven displays:
Current Cutoff Limit
X.XXX %
do you want to
change Cutoff Limit?
f To exit without changing the cutoff limit, press 〈NO〉. The oven
returns to the Burn Parameter Menu.
f To change the cutoff limit, press 〈YES〉. The oven displays:
Enter Cutoff Limit
from 0.001% - 1.000%
in 0.001% steps
then press ENTER
Use the numeric and decimal keys to enter a cutoff limit from
0.001% to 1.000% in increments of 0.001%. Use the numeric
keys to set the burn time. After entering the cutoff limit, press
〈ENTER〉. The oven returns to the Burn Parameter Menu.
Calculation Type
The oven provides two methods for calculating %Loss: the bitumento-sample method and the bitumen-to-aggregate method. Both
methods measure the difference in the sample weights before and
after the burn. However, the bitumen-to-sample method expresses
the difference as a percentage of the starting mass while the
bitumen-to-aggregate method expresses the difference as a
percentage of the final (aggregate) mass.
5–8
Page 63
The formulas for the two calculation types are as follows:
Bitumen-to-Sample Calculation Type:
5. MAIN MENU
%Loss =
Bitumen-to-Aggregate Calculation Type:
%Loss =
To select the desired calculation type, press 〈4〉at the Burn
Parameter Menu shown on page 5–4. The oven displays:
(Initial Mass – Final Mass)
Initial Mass
(Initial Mass – Final Mass)
Final Mass
×
100
×
100
Calculation Type
1. Bitumen to Sample
2. Bitumen to Agg
Use the numeric keys to select the desired calculation type. The
oven sets the calculation type and returns to the Burn Parameter
Menu.
Profile Selection
The oven features three burn profiles, which define the operation of
the oven during a burn cycle. The Default profile should be used for
most materials. The operator may select burn profile Option 1 or
Option 2 to optimize the burn cycle for less standard HMA
mixtures. Option 1 is designed for very soft aggregates (such as
dolomites or limerock) that typically require a large aggregate
correction factor (greater than 1%). Option 2 is designed for
samples that may not burn completely using the Default profile.
This option may be required for some Superpave™ mixtures, as
well as base (large stone) mixtures.
Troxler NTO 5–9
Page 64
To select the desired burn profile, press 〈5〉at the Burn Parameter
Menu shown on page 5–4. The oven displays:
Profile (default)
Use arrows to scroll
Use Enter to select
Use the arrow keys to scroll through the profiles. When the desired
profile is displayed, press 〈ENTER〉. The oven sets the profile,
briefly displays the selected profile, and returns to the Burn
Parameter Menu.
AUTO-PRINT
The Auto-Print function automatically prints sample data during a
burn cycle. The oven offers two Auto-Print printout options:
standard and reduced. A standard printout includes minute-byminute burn data. A reduced printout (see Figure 5–1) includes only
a header and footer and a summary
To set up the Auto-Print function, press 〈2〉 at the Burn Setup Menu. The oven displays:
of the burn data.
Auto-Print
1. On
2. Off
f To return to the Burn Setup Menu without changing the
Auto-Print status, press 〈ESC〉.
f To turn the Auto-Print function on, press 〈1〉. The oven
displays:
do you want to
output in
REDUCED format?
5–10
Page 65
To enable a reduced printout, press 〈YES〉; to enable a standard
printout, press 〈NO〉. The oven updates the Auto-Print status,
displays a brief confirmation message, and returns to the Burn Setup Menu.
f To turn the Auto-Print function off, press 〈2〉. The oven updates
the Auto-Print status, briefly displays a confirmation message,
and returns to the Burn Setup Menu.
%Loss = 5.09
%AC = 4.8
MTCF = 0.00 %
ACF = 0.29 %
Mass Loss = 159.8
Initial Mass = 3020.0 g
Elapsed Time = 0:47
47 3020.0 555 159.8 5.09
Time Mass Temp Loss(g) Loss(%)
Tested By _________________________
Sample ID _________________________
Project 12.09.01.002
Burn Profile (default)
Start Time = 09:50
Date = 12/09/2001
Serial Number 107
Customer Name A Testing Company
Troxler Electronic Labs - Model 4730
Figure 5–1. Sample Reduced Printout
5. MAIN MENU
Troxler NTO 5–11
Page 66
AUTO-STORE
The Auto-Store function automatically stores sample data upon
completion of a burn cycle. The data is stored under the active
project, using a sequential auto-sample ID number. When a new
project is created, the sample ID number for the Auto-Store function
starts at 1 and is incremented each time a sample is stored
automatically.
NOTE
The Auto-Store sample ID number is not incremented if
sample data is stored manually (see page 5–24). When
using the manual Store function, the operator ente
sample ID number manually. Therefore, duplicate
sample ID numbers could be stored under the acti
project.
For example, if the Auto-Store function is turned on for
a new project, the oven stores the sample data for the
first two burn cycles under sample IDs 1 and 2. Assume
that the Auto-Store is then turned off, and the operator
manually stores data from two more burn cycles using
sample IDs 3 and 4. If the Auto-Store function is then
turned on, the sample data for successive burn cycles
will also be stored using sample IDs 3, 4, and so on.
To prevent duplication of sample ID numbers, Troxler
recommends either using sample IDs beginning at 100
or higher when storing sample data manually or always
enabling the Auto-Store function.
To access the Auto-Store function, press 〈3〉 at the Burn Setup
Menu. The oven displays:
rs a
ve
Auto-Store
1. On
2. Off
f To return to the Burn Setup Menu without changing the
Auto-Store status, press 〈ESC〉.
5–12
Page 67
f To turn the Auto-Store function on, press 〈1〉.
f To turn the Auto-Store function off, press 〈2〉. The oven updates
the Auto-Store status, displays a brief confirmation message,
and returns to the Burn Setup Menu.
Active Project Selected
If the operator attempts to turn the Auto-Store function on and a
project has been selected as active, the oven enables the Auto-Store
function, briefly displays the confirmation message shown below,
and then returns to the Burn Setup Menu.
Automatic Storage
is now ON
Project XXXXXXXXXXXX
Next Sample # XX
No Project Data
If the operator attempts to turn the Auto-Store function on, but no
projects have been created, the oven displays:
5. MAIN MENU
No Project Data
do you want to
enable Auto-Store by
creating a project?
fTo return to the Burn Setup Menu without enabling the Auto-
Store function, press 〈NO〉.
fTo create a project and enable the Auto-Store function, press
〈YES〉. The oven displays the screens required to create a
project as described in Chapter 7. When the project ID is
co
lete, the oven sets the project as active, briefly displays the
mp
confirmation shown above, and then returns to the Burn Setup Menu.
Troxler NTO 5–13
Page 68
No Project Selected
If the operator attempts to turn the Auto-Store function on and one
or more projects have been created (see Chapter 7) but no project
has been sele
cted as active
, the oven displays:
Auto-Store requires
an active project
1. Select Project
2. Create Project
f To select an existing project, press 〈1〉. The oven displays the
screens required to select a project as described in Chapter 7.
After the project is sel
briefly displa
returns to the Burn Setup
f To create a n
f If twenty project IDs have already been defined, the oven
displays an error message.
f If fewer than twenty projects have been defined, the oven
displays the screens required to create a project as described
in Chapter 7. When the project ID is complete, the oven sets
the project as active, briefly displa
shown on page 5–13, and then returns to the Burn Setup
Menu.
ys the confirmation shown on page 5–13, and then
ew project ID, press 〈2〉.
ected, the oven sets the project as active,
Menu.
ys
the confirmation
5–14
Page 69
AUTO-TIMER
The Auto-Timer function can be used to automatically power the IR
element and exhaust fan on and off at specified times and on
specified days.
NOTE
When the Auto-Timer powers down the IR element and
exhaust fan, the control electronics remain powered.
NOTE
In the Auto-Timer mode, the oven will not turn off at the
programmed time if a burn cycle is in progress.
After the Auto-Timer has been enabled, the operator can disable or
suspend it as desired.
If the Auto-Timer is disabled, it will not turn the oven on or off. To
re-enable the Auto-Timer, the operator must re-enter all of the Auto-Timer parameters (start and stop dates and times, and so on).
If the Auto-Timer is suspended, the oven retains all of the Auto-Timer parameters. The Auto-Timer can then be re-enabled without
requiring the operator to re-enter this information.
The following sections describe how to enable, disable, and suspend
the Auto-Timer.
ENABLING THE AUTO-TIMER
To enable the Auto-Timer, press 〈2〉 at the MAIN MENU shown on
page 5–3. If the Auto-Timer is not already enabled, the
requests the start date for the Auto-Timer as shown below. The start
date is the date on which the Auto-Timer is to begin controlling
power to the IR elem
ent.
oven
5. MAIN MENU
mm/dd/yyyy
Input Start Date
then press ENTER
Troxler NTO 5–15
Page 70
The top line of the display shows the current setting for the start
date. The date format (in this example, mm = month, dd = day, and
yyyy = year) is the same as that displayed on the default screen. To
change the date format, refer to page 5–28. Use the numeric keys to
enter the desired start date.
press the 〈BACK SP
If the start date is valid, the oven requests the stop date for the Auto-
Timer as shown below. The stop date is the date after which the
Auto-Timer will not power up the IR element.
To move the cursor back one position,
ACE〉 key. When finished, press 〈ENTER〉.
mm/dd/yyyy
Input Stop Date
then press ENTER
The top line of the display shows the current setting for the stop
date. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired stop date. To move
the cursor back one position, press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key. When
finished, press 〈ENTER〉.
If the stop date is valid, the oven requests the days for the Auto-Timer to skip each week:
Skip any days?
1. Sat 2. Sun
3. Both 4. None
Use the numeric keys to select the desired days to be skipped and
press 〈4〉.
The oven then requests the start time for the Auto-Timer as shown
below. The start time is the time of day at which the Auto-Timer is
to turn the IR element on.
hh:mm AM
Arrows toggle AM/PM
Input Start Time
then press ENTER
5–16
Page 71
The top line of the display shows the current setting for the start
time. The time format (in this example, the AM/PM format) is the
same as that displayed on the default screen. To change the time
format, refer to page 5–28. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired
start ti
move the cursor back one position, press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key.
When finished, press 〈ENTER〉.
If the start time is valid, the oven requests the stop time for the Auto-
Timer as shown below. The stop time is the time of day when the
Auto-Timer is to turn the IR element off.
and the arrow keys to toggle between AM and PM. To
me
NOTE
The start time should be set at least 120 – 150 minutes
for a 120 V ac (Model 4730) oven, or 60 – 90 minutes for
a 240 V ac (Model 4731) oven before the first sample is
to be burned. To ensure consistent, repeatable results,
Troxler recommends allowing the oven chamber to
reach 400 °C (750 °F) for a 120 V ac (Model 4730) unit
or 375 °C (707 °F) for a 240 V ac (Model 4731) unit
before burning a sample.
5. MAIN MENU
hh:mm PM
Arrows toggle AM/PM
Input Stop Time
then press ENTER
The top line of the display shows the current setting for the stop
time. Use the numeric keys to enter the stop time and the arrow keys
to toggle between AM and PM. To move the cursor back one
position, press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key. When finished, press
〈ENTER〉.
Troxler NTO 5–17
Page 72
If the stop time is valid, the oven displays the Auto-Timer
Enabled screen, showing the start date and time, the stop date and
time, and the days to be skipped (if any). If no days are to be
skipped, the bottom line of the display is blank.
Auto Timer Enabled
mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm AM
mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm PM
Skip Weekends
The oven then returns to the MAIN MENU shown on page 5–3.
DISABLING THE AUTO-TIMER
To disable the Auto-Timer, press 〈2〉 at the MAIN MENU shown on
page 5–3. If the Auto-Timer is active, but has not appl
the IR elem
ent, the oven displays:
ied power to
Auto-Timer is
active - do you
want to disable it?
fTo return to the MAIN MENU without disabling the Auto-
Timer, press 〈NO〉.
f To disable the Auto-Timer, press 〈YES〉. The oven displays the
message Auto-Timer is Disabled and returns to the MAIN
MENU.
SUSPENDING THE AUTO-TIMER
To suspend the Auto-Timer, press 〈2〉 at the MAIN MENU shown
on page 5–3. If the Auto-Timer is enable
the IR elem
ent, the oven displays:
d and has applied power to
Auto-Timer Enabled
1. Suspend
2. Disable
5–18
Page 73
f To return to the MAIN MENU without suspending or disabling
the Auto-Timer, press 〈ESC〉.
f To suspend the Auto-Timer, press 〈1〉. The oven briefly displays
the message shown below and returns to the MAIN MENU.
Auto-Timer is
Suspended
must be explicitly
reenabled to resume
The Auto-Timer can also be disabled from this display by pressing 〈2〉. The oven displays the message Auto-Timer Disabled and
returns to the MAIN MENU.
To re-enable the Auto-Timer after it has been suspended, press 〈2〉 at
the MAIN MENU shown on page 5–3. The oven displays:
Auto-Timer Suspended
1. Re-enable
2. Disable
5. MAIN MENU
To re-enable the Auto-Timer, press 〈1〉. The oven displays the
following Auto-Timer Enabled screen, which shows the start
date and time, stop date and time, and days to be skipped (if any).
Auto-Timer Enabled
mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm AM
mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm PM
Skip Weekends
The oven then returns to the MAIN MENU shown on page 5–3.
Troxler NTO 5–19
Page 74
PROJECT MENU
The oven stores sample data in project files. The Project Menu
enables the operator to create a new project; to select the active
project from a list of created ones; and to view, erase, print, or
download project data. The functions available from the Project
Menu are described in Chapter 7, Hand
ling Data.
CORRECTION MENU
The oven stores up to twenty operator-defined aggregate correction
factors (ACFs). The Correction Menu enables the operator to
create, select, and erase ACFs. The Correction Menu is described
in Chapter 6, Calibration.
SCALE MENU
The oven includes an integrated scale that continuously monitors
the sample mass loss during a burn cycle. The Scale Menu enables
the operator to tare the scale, either manually or automatically, and
to verify and calibrate the scale. The Scale Menu is described in
Chapter 6, Calibration.
5–20
Page 75
STATUS MENU
The Status Menu allows the operator to view, print, and download
system status information. The oven can also be set up to print this
status information automatically upon power up. To access the
Status Menu, press 〈6〉 at the MAIN MENU shown on page 5–3.
Use the up and down arrow
s to scroll thr
Status Menu ¦
1. View
2. Print
3. Download
Status Menu ¦
4. Auto-Status Print
VIEW STATUS
To view the system status information, press 〈1〉. The oven displays
five screens showing:
♦ Burn mode (AUTO-or MANUAL)
♦ Cutoff criteria for the burn mode (Cutoff Limit or Burn Time)
♦ Current temperature
♦ Display units (%Loss)
♦ Calculation type (Bitumen to Sample or Bitumen to Aggregate)
♦ Unit serial number and software version
♦ Active aggregate correction factor (ACF) identification and
value
♦Auto-Timer status (Enabled, Disabled, or Suspended) and
settings (if enabled)
♦ Auto-Tare, Auto-Store, and Auto-Status Print status (ON or
OFF)
ough the menu options.
5. MAIN MENU
Troxler NTO 5–21
Page 76
Use the up and down arrows to scroll through the various screens.
To return to the Status Menu, press 〈ESC〉.
NOTE
The system status display can also be viewed directly
from the default display by pressing the 〈STATUS〉 key.
To return to the default display, press 〈ESC〉.
PRINT STATUS
To print system status information to the internal printer, press 〈2〉 at
the Status Menu. While printing, the oven displays Printing
data please wait... When finished, the oven returns to the Status
Menu.
DOWNLOAD STATUS
To download the system status information from the oven, connect
the serial communications port to a computer or other serial device.
The serial communications port is the leftmost of the two serial
ports on the rear panel, as viewed from the rear of the oven.
NOTE
To ensure proper data transfer, the cable connected to
the serial communications port should not exceed 3 m
(10 ft) in length.
Check the baud rate as described on page 5–30. Press 〈3〉 at the
Status Men
the oven displays Downloading data please wait... When
finished downloading, the oven returns to the Status Menu.
u. While dow
nloading the system status information,
5–22
Page 77
AUTO-STATUS PRINT
The oven can also be configured to automatically print system status
information each time it is powered on. To enable this function,
press 〈4〉 at the Status Menu. The oven displays the Auto-Status Print menu, as shown below:
Auto-Status Print
1. On
2. Off
fTo return to the Status Menu without changing the Auto-
Status Print function, press 〈ESC〉.
f To turn the Auto-Status Print function on, press 〈1〉. The oven
updates the status of the function, briefly displays a
confirmation message, and returns to the Status Menu.
f To turn the Auto-Status Print function off, press 〈2〉. The oven
updates the status of the function, displays a brief confirmation
message, and returns to the Status Menu.
5. MAIN MENU
Troxler NTO 5–23
Page 78
STORE FUNCTION
After burning a sample and before burning another sample, sample
data can be stored under the active project ID. (See Chapter 7 for
details on creating a project ID.) The Store selection from the MAIN
MENU enables the operator to store sample data manually.
NOTE
This function can also be accessed directly from the
default screen by pressing the 〈STORE〉 key.
After burning a sample and before burning another sample, press 〈7〉
at the MAIN MENU or press the 〈STORE〉 key if the default screen
is displayed.
If there is no sample data to be stored, the oven displays an error
message and returns to the previous display.
NOTE
The Auto-Store sample ID number is not incremented if
sample data is stored manually. When using the manual
Store function, the operator enters a sample ID number
manually. Therefore, duplicate sample ID numbers
could be stored under the active project.
For example, if the Auto-Store function is turned on for
a new project, the oven stores the sample data for the
first two burn cycles under sample IDs 1 and 2. Assume
that the Auto-Store is then turned off, and the operator
manually stores data from two more burn cycles using
sample IDs 3 and 4. If the Auto-Store function is then
turned on, the sample data for successive burn cycles
will also be stored using sample IDs 3, 4, and so on.
To prevent duplication of sample ID numbers, Troxler
recommends either using sample IDs beginning at 100
or higher when storing sample data manually or always
enabling the Auto-Store function.
5–24
Page 79
ACTIVE PROJECT SELECTED
If the operator initiates the Store function, there is sample data to be
stored, and a project has been selected as active, the oven displays:
Input new sample
number
then press ENTER
Enter a sample number (up to six numerals). Troxler recommends
that manually stored samples be numbered beginning at 100 or
higher. When the sample number is complete, press 〈ENTER〉.
If there is sufficient memory, the oven stores the sample data under
the active project ID and sample number entered, briefly displays a
confirmation message, then returns to the previous screen.
If there is insufficient memory to store the data, the oven displays an
error message and returns to the previous screen. One or more
projects must be deleted before the new project data can be stored.
NO PROJECT DATA
If the operator initiates the Store function and there is sample data to
be stored, but no project IDs have been created, the oven displays:
5. MAIN MENU
No Project Data
Do you want to
create a project?
f To return to the previous display without creating a project or
storing the sample data, press 〈NO〉 or 〈ESC〉.
Troxler NTO 5–25
Page 80
f To create a project, press 〈YES〉. The oven displays the screens
required to create a project as described in Chapter 7. When the
project ID is comp
displays a brief confirmation message, then requests the sample
number as described in the Active Project Selected section on
page 5–25.
lete, the oven sets the project as active,
NO PROJECT SELECTED
If the operator initiates the Store function and there is sample data to
be stored, but there is no active project (although project IDs have
been created), the oven displays:
Select
1. Scroll Projects
2. Enter Project ID
f To return to the previous display without selecting a project or
storing the sample data, press 〈ESC〉.
f To select a project, press 〈1〉 to scroll through the list of created
projects, or 〈2〉 to enter a known project ID. For more
information on selecting a project, refer to Chapter 7. After a
project ID has been select
briefly displays a confirmation message, then requests the
sample number as described in the Active Project Selected
section on pa
ge 5–25.
, the oven sets the project as active,
ed
5–26
Page 81
MISCELLANEOUS MENU
The Miscellaneous Menu allows the operator to:
♦ Configure the system time and date parameters
♦ Set the baud rates for the serial communication and auxiliary
ports
♦ Select the desired temperature scale
♦ Enter the customer name
♦ Turn the system information output on and off
♦ Abort printing
To access the Miscellaneous Menu, press 〈8〉 at the MAIN
MENU shown on page 5–3. Use the up and down arrows to scroll
throug
h the menu options
Miscellaneous Menu ¦
1. Time/Date
2. Baud Rate
3. Temperature Scale
.
5. MAIN MENU
Miscellaneous Menu ¦
4. Customer Name
5. System Output
6. Abort Print
Miscellaneous Menu ¦
7. Unlock Door
8. Clean oven
9. Adjust Airflow
Troxler NTO 5–27
Page 82
TIME/DATE MENU
The Time/Date Menu allows the operator to set the current time
and date and to select the desired format for the date and time
displays.
To access the Time/Date Menu, press 〈1〉 at the Miscellaneous Menu shown above. Use the up and down arrows to scroll through
the menu options.
Time/Date Menu ¦
1. Set Time
2. Set Date
3. Time Format
Time/Date Menu ¦
4. Date Format
Set Time
To set the current time, press 〈1〉 at the Time/Date Menu. The
oven displays:
hh:mm AM
Arrows toggle AM/PM
Input Time and
Press ENTER
(Note that in this example, the time is displayed in AM/PM format.
To change the format, see the Time Format section on page 5–29.)
To accept the displaye
use the numeric keys to enter the new time, and the arrow keys to
toggle between AM and PM. When finished, press 〈ENTER〉. The
oven sets the time and returns to the Time/Date Menu.
5–28
d time, press 〈ENTER〉. To change the time,
Page 83
Set Date
To set the current date, press 〈2〉 at the Time/Date Menu. The
oven displays:
mm/dd/yyyy
Input Date and
Press ENTER
(Note that in this example, the time is displayed in mm/dd/yyyy
format. To change the date format, refer to the Date Format section
on the following page.) To accept the displayed
〈ENTER〉. To change the date, use the numeric keys to enter the
new date. When finished, press 〈ENTER〉. The oven sets the date
and returns to the Time/Date Menu.
date, press
Time Format
The oven can display the time in either AM/PM or 24-hour format.
To select the desired time format, press 〈3〉 at the Time/Date Menu. The oven displays:
5. MAIN MENU
Time Format
1. AM/PM
2. 24-Hour
Use the numeric keys to select the desired format, and press
〈ENTER〉. The oven sets the time format and returns to the
Time/Date Menu.
Troxler NTO 5–29
Page 84
Date Format
The oven can display the date in either mm/dd/yyyy or dd/mm/yyyy
format, where mm = month, dd = day, and yyyy = year. To select the
desired date format, press 〈4〉 at the Time/Date Menu. The oven
displays:
Date Format
1. mm/dd/yyyy
2. dd/mm/yyyy
Use the numeric keys to select the desired format, and press
〈ENTER〉. The oven sets the date format and returns to the
Time/Date Menu.
BAUD RATE
The oven includes a serial communications port and an auxiliary
port mounted side-by-side at the left side of the rear panel (as
viewed from the rear of the oven). The serial communications port
(the leftmost of the two ports) is used to connect the oven to an
RS-232 serial device, such as a printer or computer. The auxiliary
(right) port is intended for factory use only.
NOTE
To ensure proper data transfer, the cable connected to
the serial communications port should not exceed 3 m
(10 ft) in length.
To ensure proper communications over these ports, the baud rate, or
communication speed, of the oven must match that of the peripheral
device. The baud rate on each port can be set to 600, 1200, 2400,
4800, or 9600 baud. The default setting is 9600 baud.
5–30
Page 85
To set the baud rate for the serial communications port and/or
auxiliary port, press 〈2〉 on the Miscellaneous Menu. The oven
displays:
Set Baud Rate on
1. Ser. Comm. Port
2. Auxiliary Port
Press 〈1〉to set the baud rate for the serial communications port or
〈2〉 to set the baud rate for the auxiliary port. The oven displays:
Baud Rate
1. 600 4. 4800
2. 1200 5. 9600
3. 2400
Use the numeric keys to select the baud rate that matches that of the
peripheral device. Refer to the device user manual to determine the
proper setting. The oven sets the baud rate for the selected port,
displays a brief confirmation message, and returns to the
Miscellaneous Menu.
TEMPERATURE SCALE
The oven can display the temperature in degrees Celsius or
Fahrenheit. To select the temperature scale, press 〈3〉 on the
Miscellaneous Menu. The oven displays:
5. MAIN MENU
Temperature Scale
1. Celsius
2. Fahrenheit
Use the numeric keys to select the desired temperature scale. The
oven sets the scale, briefly displays a confirmation message, and
returns to the Miscellaneous Menu.
Troxler NTO 5–31
Page 86
CUSTOMER NAME
The oven enables the operator to enter a 16-character customer
name into the oven. To enter a customer name, press 〈4〉 on the
Miscellaneous Menu. The oven displays:
Customer Name is now
XXXXXX
do you want to
change name?
fTo accept the name displayed and return to the Miscellaneous
Menu, press 〈NO〉 or 〈ESC〉.
fTo change the customer name, press 〈YES〉.
¦ to scroll chars
YES to select char
ENTER when done
Enter a customer name using up to sixteen alphanumeric
characters. Use the numeric keys to enter numbers and move the
cursor to the next position. To enter alphabetic characters, use
the arrow keys to scroll through the characters. When the
desired character is displayed, press 〈YES〉 to move the cursor
to the next position. To move the cursor back one position,
press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key.
NOTE
After the last character has been entered, press 〈YES〉 to
accept the character before pressing 〈ENTER〉 to accept
the customer name.
When the customer name is complete, press 〈ENTER〉. The
oven changes the name, displays a brief confirmation message,
and returns to the Miscellaneous Menu.
5–32
Page 87
SYSTEM OUTPUT
The oven features a System Information function that outputs the
following data to the serial communications port every second. The
data is output in the order shown. The operator can elect to enable
this function anytime the oven is powered on (Always On) or only
during a burn cycle (During Burn Only).
♦ Current time
♦ Current chamber temperature in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit,
as selected by the operator
♦ Total mass on the scale
♦ Elapsed time in seconds of a burn cycle (applies only during a
burn cycle)
♦ Current mass loss in grams (applies only during a burn cycle)
♦ Current percentage mass loss (applies only during a burn cycle,
takes into account the current calculation type setting)
♦ Current corrected %AC (applies only during a burn cycle)
To enable or disable the System Information function, press 〈5〉 on
the Miscellaneous Menu. The oven displays:
5. MAIN MENU
System Info Output
1. Always On
2. During Burn Only
3. Off
Press 〈1〉 to turn the System Information function always on; 〈2〉 to
enable the function only during a burn; or 〈3〉 to disable it. The oven
displays a brief confirmation message and returns to the
Miscellaneous Menu.
Troxler NTO 5–33
Page 88
ABORT PRINT
The Abort Print function enables the operator to halt a print
operation. To access the Abort Print function, press 〈6〉 on the
Miscellaneous Menu. The oven displays:
Aborting print...
Upon completion, the oven returns to the Miscellaneous Menu.
UNLOCK DOOR
The Unlock Door function allows the operator to unlock the
chamber door if the sample burn time is less than 30 minutes or
under any other condition from the default screen. To unlock the
door, press 〈7〉 on the Miscellaneous Menu. The oven briefly
displays the following message, then returns to the Miscellaneous Menu.
Door Unlocked
-USE CAUTION safety conditions
may not be met
WARNING
To prevent personal injury, do not unlock the door
during a burn.
CLEAN OVEN
Refer to the Cleaning section in Appendix A for information on the
Clean Oven function.
5–34
Page 89
ADJUST AIRFLOW
During factory calibration, the speed of the oven’s exhaust fan is set
to optimize the airflow for efficient combustion. The Adjust Airflow
function enables the operator to increase the speed of the exhaust
fan, if needed. To access this function, press 〈9〉 on the
Miscellaneous Menu. The oven displays:
Airflow Adjust
1. Increase
2. Remove
Press 〈1〉 to increase the speed of the exhaust fan.
NOTE
The increase in fan speed is a fixed value, and can only
be toggled on and off. Repeated attempts to increase the
speed are ignored.
Press 〈2〉 to return the fan speed to the factory calibration settings.
5. MAIN MENU
Troxler NTO 5–35
Page 90
NOTES
5–36
Page 91
CHAPTER 6
CALIBRATION
This chapter provides information on calibrating and verifying
operating parameters for the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition
Oven. The information includes procedures for determining an
aggregate correction factor (ACF); for using the Correction Menu
to manage ACFs; and for using the Scale Menu to tare, verify, and
calibrate the integrated scale.
To prevent personal injury or equipment damage, the
operator should become familiar with the safety
warnings and information in Chapter 2 before operating
the Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven.
During the ignition process, a complex interaction of various effects
(mass, temperature, airflow, materials type) can produce a result that
could be interpreted as a “mass loss.” This “mass loss” effect could
consequently affect the determination of the asphalt content.
To compensate for this “mass loss” effect, the oven uses an
aggregate correction factor (ACF) to adjust asphalt content
measurements.
The magnitude of the “mass loss” effect is influenced most by the
type of aggregate. Granite aggregates have been shown to yield the
least “mass loss,” while limestone aggregates can produce higher
losses. To ensure accurate determination of the asphalt content, an
aggregate correction factor (ACF) is necessary to compensate for
this aggregate “mass loss” effect. The following sections provide
instructions for determining an ACF.
To ensure precise asphalt content measurements, use a consistent
sample preparation and selection method. For more information,
refer also to ASTM standard D 75 (AASHTO T2), Standard Practice for Sampling Aggregates.
6–2
Page 93
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
The following equipment is required to determine an ACF to adjust
the %AC measurements:
♦ Troxler NTO Asphalt Content Ignition Oven
♦ Safety equipment - including but not limited to heat-resistant
gloves and face shield
♦ External scale precise to ± 0.1 g
♦ Drying oven that can maintain 105 °C (221 °F) per ASTM
D 6307, Standard Test Method for Asphalt Content of Hot-Mix
Asphalt by Ignition Method
♦ Stainless steel mixing bowl and assorted spoons and spatulas
♦ Sample basket assembly (provided)
♦ Aggregate correction factor form (see sample in Figure 6–1)
PREPARING CORRECTION SAMPLES
See the safety warnings in Chapter 2. Refer to Figure 6–1 on the
following
page for a samp
To prepare correction samples, follow the steps below:
1. Ensure that the oven is properly set up for ignition (see Chapter
4) with an ACF of 0.0%
changing the ACF, if necessary.
2. Begin testing using the Default burn profile (see page 5–9), then
select one of the optional profiles, if necessary.
3. To ensure the accuracy of the ACF calculations, allow the oven
temperature to reach an equilibrium point. Allow at least 120 –
150 minutes for a 120 V ac (Model 4730) unit or 60 – 90
minutes for a 240 V ac (Model 4731) unit.
To ensure consistent, repeatable results, Troxler
recommends allowing the oven chamber to reach 400 °C
(750 °F) for a 120 V ac (Model 4730) unit or 375 °C
(707 °F) for a 240 V ac (Model 4731) unit before burning
a sample.
le form for recording and calculating data.
. See page 6–8
for instructions on
NOTE
6. CALIBRATION
Troxler NTO 6–3
Page 94
4. Prepare a correction sample that closely represents the
production mixture per ASTM D 6307, or local and state
requirements.
5. Divide the HMA sample into a minimum of three correction
samples.
6. Preheat the sample to 105 ± 5 °C (221 ± 9 °F).
Date ___________ Project ________________ %AC
Sample Number
1 2 3 4
Sample Basket, Catch
Pan, and Basket Cover
Mass (W
)
P
________
T
Sample, Sample Basket,
Catch Pan, and Basket
Cover Mass (W
Sample Weight
(W
S=WT–WP
True Asphalt Content
(%AC
)
T
Asphalt Content of
Sample Measured by
Oven (%AC
Correction Factor
(ACF = %AC
Average Aggregate
Correction Factor
(ACF
AVG
)
)
T
)
)
0
– %ACT)
0
Figure 6–1. Sample Aggregate Correction Factor Form
6–4
Page 95
WARNING
Always wear heat-resistant gloves when handling any
hot substance.
Troxler recommends wearing a face shield when the
oven door is open and when handling the sample.
Use the basket carrier to move hot sample baskets
(see Figure 2–1 on page 2–8). Always keep the basket
carrier to the left side of your body, with the handle
between your body and the open oven door. This
helps prevent the operator from backing into the hot
insulation on the inside surface of the door.
7. Use an external scale to weigh the sample baskets with the catch
pan and basket cover. Record the mass (W
8. With the catch pan under the sample baskets, spread the
correction sample evenly in the baskets. Put no more than
2500 g in each basket.
9. Place the sample basket cover over the top sample basket.
10. Use the lock arms to secure the sample basket cover to the top
basket.
11. Place the sample with the baskets, catch pan, and sample basket
cover in the center of the external scale. Record the mass (W
from the external scale.
12. Determine the sample mass (W
= WT – WP).
S
13. Set up the Auto-Print function for a printout that will include
%Loss, %AC, sample mass, and so on. Refer to the Auto-Print
section on pa
ge 5–10 for s
etup instructions.
14. Press 〈START〉.
).
P
)
T
6. CALIBRATION
Troxler NTO 6–5
Page 96
15. The oven requests the sample mass (WS = WT – WP). Enter the
sample mass and press 〈ENTER〉.
CAUTION
Use care when loading and unloading samples to avoid
touching or scraping the hearth plate, chamber sides, or
IR element.
16. Place the sample with the baskets and catch pan on the hearth
plate in the center of the oven. Ensure that the hearth plate and
sample baskets do not touch the chamber sides. Immediately
close the chamber door.
17. Press 〈START〉.
WARNING
Step away from the oven during ignition. Do not
override the door lock.
18. After ignition is complete, the oven releases the door lock and
prints a summary of the sample burn data. Wearing insulated gloves and a face shield, remove the sample from the oven and
cover it with the sample safety cage until the sample has cooled
to room temperature.
NOTE
The accuracy of the ACF calculations can be reduced if
the sample is allowed to remain in the oven chamber
after the burn is complete.
19. Record the %AC determined by the oven (%AC
) with an ACF
0
of 0.0%.
20. Repeat steps 6 through 19 for the remaining correction samples.
6–6
Page 97
CALCULATING AN ACF
1. Using the following equation, calculate and record the aggregate
correction factor for each correction sample:
ACF =%AC
where: ACF = Aggregate correction factor
%AC
= Asphalt content of sample as determined by the
0
oven
= True asphalt content
%AC
T
2. Determine the average ACF value (ACFf If the difference between the two ACF values is less than
0.15%, then average the two values.
f If the difference between the two ACF values is greater than
0.15%, then prepare two additional correction samples.
Discard the high and low ACF values, then average the two
remaining values.
3. Enter the ACF as described in the Create ACF sectio
6–10. The oven will automatically
measurements using the active ACF.
– %ACT
0
) as follows:
AVG
n on page
adjust the asphalt content
6. CALIBRATION
Troxler NTO 6–7
Page 98
CORRECTION MENU
The oven can store up to twenty aggregate correction factors
(ACFs). Each ACF is stored using an alphanumeric ID entered by
the operator. The ACF ID can be up to twelve characters. When a
correction factor is active, all measurements are adjusted using that
correction factor.
The Correction Menu enables the operator to select (activate) an
existing ACF, to create a new ACF, or to erase one or more stored
ACFs. To access the Correction Menu, press 〈4〉 at the MAIN MENU. The oven displays:
Correction Menu
1. Select ACF
2. Create ACF
3. Erase ACF
To select an item from the menu, press the corresponding number
key.
SELECT ACF
To select (activate) an existing ACF, press 〈1〉 at the Correction
Menu shown on page 6–8. If there are no stored ACFs, the oven
displays the error mess
Correction Menu.
If there are stored ACFs, the oven displays:
age No ACFs Found and returns to the
6–8
Select
1. Scroll ACFs
2. Enter ACF ID
Page 99
f To choose from a list of ACFs, press 〈1〉. The oven displays the
ID for the active ACF on the first line, and the correction factor
on the second line. Use the arrow keys to scroll through the list.
Press 〈ENTER〉 when the desired ACF is displayed. The oven
sets the selected ACF as active, briefly displays a confirmation
message, and returns to the Correction Menu.
f To enter the desired ACF ID, press 〈2〉. The oven displays:
¦ to scroll chars
YES to select char
ENTER when done
Enter the desired ACF ID. Use the numeric keys to enter
numbers and move the cursor to the next position. To enter
alphabetic characters, use the arrow keys to scroll through the
characters. When the desired character is displayed, press
〈YES〉 to move the cursor to the next position. To move the
cursor back one position, press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key.
NOTE
After the last character has been entered, press 〈YES〉 to
accept the character before pressing 〈ENTER〉 to accept
the ACF ID.
When the ACF ID is complete, press 〈ENTER〉. If the ACF ID
is valid, the oven activates the selected ACF, displays a brief
confirmation message, and returns to the Correction Menu. If
the ACF ID entered is not valid, the oven displays an error
message. Press 〈ENTER〉 to return to the Correction Menu.
6. CALIBRATION
Troxler NTO 6–9
Page 100
CREATE ACF
To create a new ACF, press 〈2〉 at the Correction Menu shown on
page 6–8. If the maximum number (twenty) of ACFs already exists,
the oven displays an error
Correction Menu. To clear space in memory for the new ACF,
use the Erase ACF function described on page 6–11.
If the maxi
displays:
mum nu
mber of ACFs does not already exist, the oven
message. Press 〈ENTER〉 to return to the
¦ to scroll chars
YES to select char
ENTER when done
Enter the desired ACF ID. Use the numeric keys to enter numbers
and move the cursor to the next position. To enter alphabetic
characters, use the arrow keys to scroll through the characters.
When the desired character is displayed, press 〈YES〉 to move the
cursor to the next position. To move the cursor back one position,
press the 〈BACK SPACE〉 key.
NOTE
After the last character has been entered, press 〈YES〉 to
accept the character before pressing 〈ENTER〉 to accept
the ACF ID.
When the ACF ID is complete, press 〈ENTER〉. The oven then
requests the new ACF value:
6–10
Input new ACF value
from -5.00 to 5.00%
then press ENTER
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