DISCUSSION

Based on our experiment, we obtained the result. From test 1, the temperature of
bitumen to become soft for test number 1 is 51℃ while for test 2, we obtain the temperature
of 52℃. So, by using the data from test 1 and 2, the average temperature is 51.5℃. According
to Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) standard, the theoretical value of optimum temperature of
bitumen softening point is between 48℃ to 52℃. So, based on our result, we get the value
from the theoretical standard.
There are some cause and error during experiment that can cause the result form
getting the theoretical value. One of the reasons is the bath temperature is not maintain for 15
minutes. Besides that, the bath temperature is not in the 5℃ plus minus 2℃ range. Lastly,
the surrounding temperature may can affect the water temperature.
To avoid this error, students need to be alert with the temperature. Make sure the
temperature maintain at 15℃ for the 15 minutes. In case the temperature is increase, students
need to put some ice cubes into the water to decrease the temperature. If the temperature is
decrease, student need to put some warm water to the container.
In a nutshell, during the experiment, we need to follow some safety measurement in
the lab. For example, be careful and make sure your hand doesn’t touch the hot burner while
taking the reading as it may cause severe burn to our self. After the experiment is done, the
apparatus is washed using hazard chemical such as kerosene. Make sure to wash our hands or
wear a glove while washing the apparatus.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. State the heating rate of the liquid bath during the experiment.

The heating rate is for each 2 minutes, we increase the temperature by 5. So the rate is
2.5℃/min.

2. Quote the mean softening point of your specimen. Comment on the value obtained.

Based on our experiment, we obtained the result. From test 1, the temperature of bitumen to
become soft for test number 1 is 51℃ while for test 2, we obtain the temperature of 52℃. So,
by using the data from test 1 and 2, the average temperature is 51.5℃. According to Jabatan
Kerja Raya (JKR) standard, the theoretical value of optimum temperature of bitumen
softening point is between 48℃ to 52℃. So, based on our result, we get the value from the
theoretical standard.

3. If the two test temperature differ by more 1℃, offer an explanation

If the two test temperature is differ by more than 1℃, this is mainly because the temperature
of 15℃ is not maintain for 15 minutes.

4. Explain the function of magnetic stirrer.

This device is used to make a sti bar, immerse in a liquid, quickly spin, or stirring or mixing a
solution. In this experiment, magnetic stirrer use for the water inside container to have the
same temperature at below and top of the water container.

5. Report the possible grade of tested bitumen.

CONCLUSION

In a nutshell, the final temperature of the softening point is 51.5℃. Tis mean that the
we get the suitable value that is between 48℃ to 52℃. Meanwhile, we achieved the objective
of this experiment. During conducting the experiment, there are some errors that occurred
which will affect the final result. In order to prevent this from happening, there are methods
to improve the experiment’s result. Before doing the experiment, make sure the Ring holder
does not hold the Ball guide in stationary. Adjust the ring until the ball can pass through
freely. In addition, to get good results, ensure you conduct the experiment in room
temperature condition. The purpose of this test in the industry is to estimate viscoelastic
properties of both asphalt and a paving mixture especially in road design. This is to test the
consistency of bitumen.