ATS Bending Beam Rheometer 2S — BBR2S

The Applied Test Systems Bending Beam Rheometer 2S (BBR2S) is designed for low-temperature flexural testing of asphalt binder, bitumen, and similar materials as part of Performance Grade (PG) binder evaluation. The system applies a controlled load to a beam specimen submerged in a temperature-controlled bath, allowing laboratories to evaluate stiffness and deformation behavior at low temperatures.

The BBR2S combines computerized control and data acquisition with an external cooling system and precision load and displacement measurement. Programmable test parameters and customizable reporting make it well suited for state DOT, commercial, university, and asphalt binder laboratories performing Superpave testing.

Key Features

• Designed for low-temperature asphalt binder flexural testing
• Computerized test control, data acquisition, and analysis
• Three-point bend test configuration
• Temperature testing range down to -40°C
• Integral temperature-compensated 500g load cell
• High-resolution LVDT displacement measurement
• Two platinum RTDs for precise temperature monitoring
• External refrigeration/cooling system included
• Programmable force, loading time, recovery time, and specimen parameters
• Real-time load, displacement, and bath-temperature display
• Customizable reports with sample names, notes, company logo, and accreditation information
• Test data export available in CSV and HTML formats
• Seven pre-programmed language options
• Stainless steel, corrosion-resistant construction
• Optional hardware available for crack sealant testing

Included Items

• BBR2S load frame and fluid bath system
• External cooling unit
• Specimen mold kit for five molds
• Aluminum casing bars
• Mylar strips
• Holding bands
• Calibration kit
• Step disk and index
• Four 50 g calibration weights
• Two 2 g calibration weights
• Confidence beam
• Non-compliance beam
• Wooden calibration-kit storage case
• Computer with keyboard, mouse, and monitor
• ATS BBR software installed

Typical Applications

• Superpave asphalt binder PG grading
• Low-temperature asphalt binder characterization
• Determination of binder stiffness and creep behavior
• Asphalt binder research and development
• State DOT and commercial binder testing
• University and research laboratory testing
• Crack sealant testing when equipped with optional hardware

Specifications

• Test Load: Variable, 0–200 g standard
• Load Cell: 500 g, temperature compensated
• Testing Temperature Range: 0 to -40°C
• Sample Supports: 3 mm radius stainless steel, spaced 101.6 mm apart
• LVDT Range: 6.35 mm with 2 μm resolution
• Temperature Measurement: Two platinum RTDs
• Recommended Bath Fluid: Non-flammable ethylene glycol mixture

Applicable Standards

• AASHTO T 313
• AASHTO TP 87
• ASTM D6648
• BS EN 14771
• GOST 58400.8-2019

Lab Manager's Tip

Choose the BBR2S when you want a proven computer-controlled Bending Beam Rheometer with a separate computer workstation. Laboratories looking for a more integrated system with a built-in touchscreen computer should consider the ATS BBR3S.