CANNON® TE-BBR Pro Operator's Manual

CANNON® TE-BBR Pro™
Thermoelectric Bending-Beam Rheometer Pro™

Targeted for reseach of asphalt mixture designs
& forensic studies
TE-BBR Pro™
Operator’s Manual
Revision 1.0, Preliminary
P/N 44.5065
TE-BBR Pro™
Operator’s Manual
Revision 1.0, Preliminary
CANNON® Instrument Company

2139 High Tech Road
State College, PA 16803
TE-BBR Pro Operator's Manual, Rev. 1.0
Copyright
Copyright © 2014 CANNON Instrument Company®. All rights reserved.
Trademarks
CANNON®, the CANNON® logo, and CANNON Instrument Company® are registered
trademarks of CANNON Instrument Company®.
Revision History
Revision Date Details
Revision 1.0 Preliminary Initial release
Contact
Address: CANNON Instrument Company
2139 High Tech Road
State College PA 16803, USA
Phone: 1-814-353-8000; 1-800-676-6232
Fax: 1-814-353-8007
Website: http://www.cannoninstrument.com
Email:
Sales: sales@cannoninstrument.com
Service: service@cannoninstrument.com
ii CANNON®
Contents
Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 1
TE-BBR Pro apparatus ............................................................................................................... 1
Control unit ................................................................................................................................ 2
Load frame .................................................................................................................................. 3
Air/water heat exchanger ..........................................................................................................4
Other equipment .......................................................................................................................4
Computer interface .................................................................................................................... 5
Related documents ........................................................................................................................ 5
Specifications / Compliances ........................................................................................................6
Notes/Cautions/Warnings ............................................................................................................ 7
Safety precautions .......................................................................................................................... 7
Unpacking and Installation ...............................................................................................................9
Unpack and inspect .......................................................................................................................9
Setup the TE-BBR Pro ................................................................................................................... 11
Physical arrangements .............................................................................................................. 11
Setup instructions .....................................................................................................................12
Operation ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Initial start-up .............................................................................................................................. 19
Calibrate temperature .................................................................................................................20
Calibrate instrument.....................................................................................................................21
Create a profile ............................................................................................................................. 22
Entering Packet Data ............................................................................................................... 23
Insert and Delete Rows ............................................................................................................ 23
CANNON® iii
Saving a Profile .........................................................................................................................23

Creating Cyclic Profiles ............................................................................................................23
Run a profile ................................................................................................................................ 24
Beam Preparation .............................................................................................................................27
Overview .......................................................................................................................................27
Asphalt beam dimensions........................................................................................................27
Test method ..............................................................................................................................27
Mold preparation ........................................................................................................................ 28
Specimen pouring ....................................................................................................................... 29
Specimen demolding................................................................................................................... 30
Specifications .................................................................................................................................... 33
Warranty ...........................................................................................................................................35
Products limited warranty ...........................................................................................................35
Reagent and chemical warranty ..................................................................................................35
Returning a product to CANNON .............................................................................................. 36
Required information .............................................................................................................. 36
Hazardous materials ............................................................................................................... 36
Shipping notification............................................................................................................... 36
Replacement Parts List ....................................................................................................................37
List of Figures
Figure 1 — TE-BBR Pro apparatus .................................................................................................... 2
Figure 2 — TE-BBR Pro load frame...................................................................................................3
Figure 3 — Arrangement of TE-BBR Pro system ............................................................................ 11
Figure 4 — Assembled TE-BBR Pro control unit ........................................................................... 13
Figure 5 — Control unit/load unit connections ............................................................................ 14
Figure 6 — Heat exchanger quick disconnects .............................................................................. 15
iv CANNON®
Figure 7 — Heat exchanger connections ....................................................................................... 16

Figure 8 — Bath well (without load frame) ....................................................................................17
List of Tables
Table 1 — Related documents ........................................................................................................... 5
Table 2 — Specifications and compliances ......................................................................................6
Table 3 — TE-BBR Pro Models .........................................................................................................9
Table 4 — Packing list ..................................................................................................................... 10
Table 5 — Tools and materials required .........................................................................................12
Table 6 — Control unit/load unit cable connections .................................................................... 13
Table 7 — Control unit/load unit tubing connections ................................................................. 14
Table 8 — Control unit/heat exchanger hose connections ...........................................................15
Table 9 — LED chart .......................................................................................................................20
Table 10 — Specifications ................................................................................................................ 33
Table 11 — TE-BBR Pro replacement parts..................................................................................... 37
v CANNON®
vi CANNON®
Overview
The CANNON® Thermoelectric Bending-Beam Rheometer Pro (TE-BBR Pro) is designed as a
basic controlled stress instrument for research of asphalt emulsions, binders, mix designs, and
forensic studies. It allows for loads of up to 45 kg (44 N) to be applied with controlled stress
rates for asphalt mixtures.
The TE-BBR Pro achieves temperatures from zero to −40 °C using environmentally-friendly
cooling technology in which the solid-state bath vessel and its liquid content are totally self-
contained and thereby eliminating costly and potentially hazardous refrigeration components.
The TE-BBR Pro is capable of applying a maximum force of 44 N with a resolution to 1.4 mN,
and a maximum deflection of −2.5 to +7.5 mm with a resolution to .15 µm. Specimen samples
are prepared for testing by creating 12.7 mm wide and 6.4 or 12.7 mm thick on any span of 100,
120, 140, or 160 mm beams.
The TE-BBR Pro has self-contained high resolution acquisition electronics which allows for
programmable stress rates, stress profiles and test periods. Analysis of acquired test data can
be performed off-line.
TE-BBR Pro apparatus

The Thermoelectric Bending-Beam Rheometer (TE-BBR) test apparatus consists of three
major units; the control unit, the load frame, and the air/water heat exchanger.
CANNON® 1
Load frame
Air/water heater exchanger
Control unit
Figure 1 — TE-BBR Pro apparatus
Control unit
The control unit is the base for the bending-beam rheometer. It contains the electronic
components required to condition the signals from the linear variable differential transducer
(LVDT), load cell, and temperature probe, and to communicate with the host computer via
the serial port. Also included in the control unit are the relays, switches, and solenoid valves
that control the introduction of pressurized gas to the chamber below the air bearing. The
control unit contains pressure regulators and gages for operation of the pneumatic system.
The low-temperature bath is also an integral part of the control unit and is surrounded by
thermoelectric modules to permit solid state cooling.
2 0BOverview CANNON®
Load frame
The load frame rests on top of the control unit with the lower section immersed in the alcohol
bath. It consists of a frame with the LVDT at the uppermost section, a shaft with an attached
platform for holding weights, an air bearing through which the shaft passes, a load cell
integral with the shaft below the bearing, and a support for the beam at the lower end. The
frame also contains several filters for the compressed gas and an illumination system to assist
the operator in the placement of beams on the supports.
Air pressure in the lower cylinder, positioned beneath the air bearing, provides a force to
counterbalance the load resulting from the weight of the shaft and platform, effectively
creating a zero-load condition where the shaft floats freely. Air pressure in the upper cylinder
applies the desired force (up to 44 N) to the top of the specimen.
Figure 2 — TE-BBR Pro load frame
CANNON® 0BOverview 3
Manual operation
The load frame can be operated either manually or automatically (LOCAL or REMOTE). The
normal test procedure involves elements of both. Manual operation is used to adjust the
position of the loading shaft to bring it into contact with the asphalt beam and adjust the load
to be applied to the beam.
Automatic operation
Automatic operation is controlled via the computer. The computer sends signals to the
electronics system to trigger a solenoid valve which regulates the flow of pressurized air (or
gas). This adjusts the net load applied to the asphalt beam.
Air/water heat exchanger

The Air/Water Heat Exchanger contains a radiator, fan(s), and water pump to circulate and
cool a mixture of water and ethylene glycol flowing through the hot side heat sinks
surrounding the bath in the Control Unit. Circulation of the mixture helps remove heat from
the Control Unit bath.
Other equipment
Specimen molds
Each mold set consists of five rectangular metal sections, three plastic strips, and two rubber O-rings.
Since tests are generally performed in duplicate, two complete molds are required for each test.
Air/nitrogen requirements
The air bearing and the pneumatic load chamber immediately below it require a source of
clean, dry, nonflammable gas. Compressed air is preferable if it is readily available and is clean
and dry. Other acceptable gasses include nitrogen and carbon dioxide. A small compressor
can be used to provide air at a suitable rate and pressure to satisfy the requirements for
operation of this equipment.
Some users prefer to use cylinders of compressed gas such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
Consult the Specifications table on page three for air pressure and volume requirements,
which may vary depending on date of manufacture for your instrument.
Computer interface
The data acquisition system consists of a personal computer, printer, and the TE-BBR Pro
software program for Windows®. An RS-232C cable is provided to permit the connection of
the Thermoelectric Bending-Beam Rheometer to the computer.
The TE-BBR has its own microprocessor and communicates with the host computer via the
RS-232C serial connection to the computer COM port. Test data, including deflection of the
asphalt beam, load on the beam, and temperature, are acquired by the instrument. The
Bending-Beam Rheometer then transmits the data to the host computer. The TE-BBR also
receives commands from the host computer via the RS-232C connection in order to time the
application of loads and enable the temperature control system. Testing and data acquisition
control parameters are selected via the software interface.
A USB to RS-232 converter is available for computers without an RS-232 serial port.
Related documents
Table 1 — Related documents
Title Reference Number

Standard Test Method for Determining the Flexural Creep Stiffness ASTM D6648
of Asphalt Binder Using the Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR)
Standard Method of Test for Determining the Flexural Creep AASHTO T313
Stiffness of Asphalt Binder Using the Bending Beam Rheometer
(BBR)
Specifications / Compliances
Table 2 — Specifications and compliances
Specifications Details
Model TE-BBR Pro
Methodology For research applications
Applications Asphalt
Dimensions (w × d × h ) Note: height of TE-BBR Pro includes load unit
TE-BBR Pro 61 cm × 54 cm × 69 cm (24 in × 21.3 in × 27.2 in)
Heat exchanger 42 cm × 54 cm × 47 cm (16.5 in × 21.3 in × 18.5 in)
Note: allow at least 6 inches to front and rear measurements
for air flow and rear cable/tubing connections
Weight
TE-BBR Pro 61.2 kg (135 lb)
Heat exchanger 52.6 kg (116 lb)
Shipping weight
TE-BBR Pro 68 kg (150 lb)
Heat exchanger 59 kg (130 lb)
Bath volume 5 L (1.33 gal)
Heat exchanger coolant 2 L (.53 gal) 30% ethylene glycol/70% water
volume
Power requirements 100 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 1800 watts; 20 A circuit
115 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 1800 watts; 20 A circuit
Operating conditions 15 °C to 30 °C, 10% to 90% relative humidity (non-
condensing), Installation Category II, Pollution Degree 2
Compliance CE Mark: EMC Directive (2004/108/EC); Low Voltage
Directive (2006/95/EC); ROHS
Notes/Cautions/Warnings
Notes, caution, and warnings are used in the manual to call an operator’s attention to
important details prior to performing a procedure or step. Read and follow these important
instructions. Failure to observe these instructions may void warranties, compromise operator
safety, and/or result in damage to the equipment.
Notes provide more information about the content that follows.
Cautions alert the operator to conditions that may damage equipment.
Warnings alert the operator to conditions that may cause injury.
Safety precautions
Please observe the following general safety precautions for proper and safe operation of the
equipment.
• Only qualified personnel should operate the TE-BBR Pro.
• Make sure that you read and understand all operating instructions and safety precautions
listed in this manual before installing or operating your unit. If you have questions
regarding instrument operation or documentation, contact CANNON Instrument
Company.
• Do not deviate from the installation, operation, or maintenance procedures described in

this manual. Improper use of the TE-BBR Pro may result in a hazardous situation and
may void the manufacturer’s warranty.
• Handle and transport the unit with care. Sudden jolts or impacts may cause damage to
components.
• Observe all warning labels. Never remove warning labels.
• Never operate damaged or leaking equipment.
• Unless procedures specify otherwise, always turn off the unit and disconnect the mains
cable from the power source before performing service or maintenance procedures, or
before moving the unit.
• Refer all service and repairs to qualified personnel.
The ~MAINS symbol indicates the connections for the AC power

supply. The AC power input must match the electrical specifications of
the instrument.
~MAINS Never operate the equipment with a damaged MAINS AC power cable.
Use only the manufacturer-supplied MAINS AC power cable. This cable
must be inserted into a receptacle with a protective earth ground.
The (O) symbol indicates the OFF position for the electrical switches for
(O)
your unit.
Unpacking and Installation

Unpack and inspect
Unpack and inspect all CANNON® Thermoelectric Bending Beam Rheometer Pro components
and accessories as soon as you receive them.
Caution: Many components are fragile. Use caution when moving and
handling the TE-BBR Pro and accessories.
Warning: The control unit and heat exchanger each weigh more than
50 kg (110 lb). Take proper precautions when lifting or moving either
unit.
1. Carefully unpack the entire contents of the shipment.

2. Referring to the packaging list, verify that all materials were received.
3. Inspect materials for defects and shipping damage. Contact your CANNON
representative to resolve any issues.
Table 3 — TE-BBR Pro Models
Description Catalog Number

TE-BBR Pro, 115 VAC (US) 9728-V36
TE-BBR Pro, 100 VAC (Japanese) 9728-V37
TE-BBR Pro, 230 VAC (European) 9728-V38
CANNON® 9
Table 4 — Packing list
Description Part Number

TE-BBR Pro control unit 44.5020
TE-BBR Pro load unit 44.5010
Air/water heat exchanger 44.0652 (115 VAC);44.6053 (230 VAC); 44.6054 (100 VAC)
Lamp cable assembly (red) 44.6610
LVDT cable assembly (blue) 44.6620
Load cell cable assembly (yellow) 44.6630
Probe cable assembly (grey) 44.6640
Hose kit 28.0075
Polyflo kit 44.5051
RS-232 serial cable 80.2210
MAINS power cord varies
Bubble level 44.6310
Beam mold kit 44.6205
Clamp, 10” straight hemostat 44.6320
RCA Cable assembly-two alligator 44.6810
Clamp, travel stop w/ set screws 44.6830
Calibration beam 44.6521
Gage block precision 44.6535
Weight 500 gram SST cylinder (9) 44.5008
Beam, calibration SST TEBBR Pro 44.5049
TE-BBR Pro for Windows 44.5052
TE-BBR Pro Operator’s Manual 44.5065
Power cables 28.0067; 28.0068
10 1BUnpacking and Installation CANNON®

Setup the TE-BBR Pro

Physical arrangements
The control unit must be installed on a secure, level surface at approximately waist height.
Operators will need to easily reach and work with the load unit; they will also need to be able
to reach the power switch and stirrer speed control on the right, rear of the control unit. The
control unit and host computer will be cabled together with a 6-foot serial cable, so the host
computer must be positioned on the workbench near the control unit. The heat exchanger
should be placed on the floor under the control unit. Do not place the heat exchanger on the
same workbench as the control unit. Vibrations from the heat exchanger will affect the
sensitive measuring system of the load unit.
Computer system Control unit &

Load frame
Air/water heater exchanger
Figure 3 — Arrangement of TE-BBR Pro system
CANNON® 1BUnpacking and Installation 11

Table 5 — Tools and materials required
Tool Description Part Description

3/8” open-end wrench 8 ft clear, silicone hoses (2) from hose kit
MAINS power cord
Part Description Power cables (2)
Bubble level Color-coded cable assemblies (4)

TE-BBR Pro control unit RS-232 serial cable
TE-BBR Pro load unit 10 ft tubing from Polyflo kit
Air/water heat exchanger Hose clamps (2) from hose kit
3 ft tubing (3) from Polyflo kit
Setup instructions
Caution: Do not allow the control unit to sit on the stirring motor
shield. Damage to the shield may force the stirring motor against the
bottom of the tank, preventing rotation.
1. Extend the four legs enough to provide safe clearance beneath the stirring motor shield
on the bottom of the control unit case.
2. Carefully set the control unit in position on the work surface.
3. Set the cross-shaped stirring bar on the stainless steel plate in the center of the bath.
4. Set the cover grid over the stirring bar and make sure that the grid does not impede the
rotation of the stirring bar.
5. Lower the load unit into the bath well and slide it to the rear of the well.

Figure 4 — Assembled TE-BBR Pro control unit
Caution: The cable assemblies used to connect the control unit and
load unit are equipped with keyed, push-on plugs. To connect or
disconnect these plugs, firmly grasp the grey housing and gently push
or pull the plug into or out of the socket. Do not twist the plug. Do not
unscrew the collar from the back of the plug.
6. Plug the four, color-coded cable assemblies into the appropriate sockets on the rear
panels of the load unit and control unit.
Table 6 — Control unit/load unit cable connections
Color Control unit label Load unit label

Red LAMPS LAMPS
Blue LVDT LVDT
Grey PROBE PROBE
Yellow LOAD CELL LOAD
7. Carefully set the host computer in position on the work surface.

8. Connect the 25-pin plug of the RS-232 serial cable to the rear panel of the control unit.

9. Connect the 9-pin plug of the RS-232 serial cable to the host computer.
10. With a 3/8” wrench, connect the three, 3 ft long pieces of Polyflo tubing between the
appropriate fittings on the rear panels of the load unit and control unit.
Table 7 — Control unit/load unit tubing connections
Control unit label Load unit label

from BEARING to AIR BEARING
from UPPER to UPPER CYLINDER
from LOWER CYLINDER to LOWER CYLINDER
Note: CANNON recommends the use of dry air as the most effective
compressed gas supply. An air dryer should be installed on your line as
close to the instrument as possible to prevent condensation and
corrosion.
11. Connect the 10 ft long tubing to the AIR INPUT fitting on the rear of the control unit.
Connect the free end of the tubing to the compressed gas supply (dry air or nitrogen).
Figure 5 — Control unit/load unit connections

12. Carefully place the heat exchanger on the floor under the control unit.

13. Slide the two silicone hoses onto the IN and OUT pipe fittings on the rear panel of the
control unit. Secure both hoses onto the pipes with hose clamps.
14. Plug the quick disconnect fittings on the silicone hoses into the connections on the heat
exchanger.
Table 8 — Control unit/heat exchanger hose connections
Control unit label Heat exchanger label

from IN to COOLANT OUT
from OUT to COOLANT IN
Figure 6 — Heat exchanger quick disconnects

15. Verify that the power switch on the rear panel of the control unit is in the off (O)
position.
16. Plug the two power cables into the appropriate sockets on the rear of the control unit.
The plugs are keyed. Gently push them into the socket, and then secure the plug by
screwing the plastic collar onto the fitting.
17. Plug the two power cables into the appropriate sockets on the rear of the heat exchanger.
The plugs are keyed. Gently push them into the socket, and then secure the plug by
screwing the plastic collar onto the fitting.
18. Insert the power cord into the MAINS socket on the heat exchanger. Plug the power cord
into the MAINS receptacle at the workstation.

Figure 7 — Heat exchanger connections
Warning: Ethylene glycol is toxic. Use proper safety precautions when

handling. Follow appropriate MSDS procedures.
Caution: Do not use "environmentally-friendly alternatives to ethylene

glycol such as polyethylene glycol in the heat exchanger. These
products can coagulate under colder conditions and damage the TE-
BBR Pro circulation system.
19. Uncap the heat exchanger reservoir and fill the heat exchanger with a 30% ethylene
glycol/70% water mix (1 to 2 liters).
20. Turn on the power switch on the back of the control unit. The heat exchanger pump will
begin circulating the coolant throughout the system.
21. Check for leaks and continue adding the 30/70 coolant mix to the reservoir as air is
purged from the system.
22. After all air has been purged and the reservoir is full, turn off the power.
23. Place the small bubble level on the load unit platform and adjust the legs of the control
unit to level the entire assembly.

Warning: Methyl alcohol is flammable and toxic. Keep away from open
flames or sparks. Use proper safety precautions when handling. Do not
add methyl alcohol to the bath well while the instrument is turned on.
Caution: Do not overfill the bath well. Damage to the load cell and
control unit will result.
24. With the load unit sitting in the bath well, fill the well with methyl alcohol or another
suitable liquid to approximately 1 inch below the lower lip of the grey plastic liner
(5 liters). The maximum fill level is labeled on the load frame just below the load cell.
Grey liner
1 inch below liner
Figure 8 — Bath well (without load frame)


Operation
Initial start-up
1. Verify that the cross-shaped magnetic stirring bar is in the center of the bath well and
that the circulator guard is in place over the stirrer.
2. Turn the stirrer speed adjustment knob, located on the right rear panel, fully
counterclockwise to its lowest setting.
3. Turn on TE-BBR Pro.
a. Verify that the instrument is set to local mode – red light will be visible on the
Local – Remote switch.
b. Verify that the instrument is set to zero mode – red light will be visible on the Zero
Load switch.
4. Slowly turn the stirrer speed adjustment know clockwise to increase the speed of the
stirring bar to the desired level.
5. Start instrument software.
6. Select Menu > Setup > Instrument Setup:
a. Temperature: Enter temperature probe setting from certificate: S/N, a0, a1, a2.
b. Gage Block: Top Level, Red Level, White Level, Blue Level.
c. Beam Dimensions: Length, Thickness, Width. Beam dimensions may vary with
test. The length is the span between the adjustable supports: 100 mm, 120 mm, 140
mm, or 160 mm.
d. Archive Folder: Select the default location to which to save data files.
7. Place load unit in bath well.
8. Apply air pressure to unit.
9. Set LINE pressure to 55 PSI.
10. Set AIR BEARING pressure to 45 PSI.
CANNON® 19
Table 9 — LED chart
LED Indication
Yellow Power on.
Red Bath heaters are operating
Green Steady green – system is cooling
Flashing green – system is at target temperature
Calibrate temperature
Note: Temperature calibration must be completed whenever a new
temperature is selected.
1. If necessary, follow Initial start-up procedures on page 19 to start the TE-BBR Pro.
2. Verify initial conditions:
a. Temperature is set in Menu > Instrument > Setup tab, Target Temperature field.
b. Heat exchanger is filled with coolant and lines are purged of air.
c. Bath well is filled to the proper level with appropriate bath fluid and the load frame
is in the well.
3. If necessary, enable Menu > Setup > Enable Temperature Control.
4. Wait for the temperature to stabilize.
5. Measure the temperature of the bath using an external reference thermometer.
6. Select Menu > Calibrate > Temperature.
7. Enter the measured temperature in the Reference Temperature field.
8. Click Finished.
20 2BOperation CANNON®
Calibrate instrument
Note: The load frame must be in the bath well and at the operating
temperature. Gage block and beam dimension values must be entered
in Menu > Setup > Instrument Setup before calibration.
Zero load refers to the negative force provided by the lower air cylinder
to counterbalance the load resulting from the weight of the shaft and
platform, effectively creating a zero-load condition where the shaft
floats freely.
is in the well.
5. Select Menu > Calibrate > Force & Deflection.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen, with the following additional guidance:
The software completes the deflection calibration first, and then follows with the force
calibration. For the defection calibration, the gage block is used to set the defection
distance, with the red level being equivalent to the shaft resting on the beam with zero
deflection. All other values are measured as deltas from this position. The initial beam
position is determined mathematically based on the block dimensions entered into the
setup parameters. The zero load does not need to be precisely set for the deflection
calibration. As long as the 500 gram weight is able to securely seat the platform onto the
gage block, the calibration will run properly.
a. Set the instrument to local mode – red light will be visible on the Local – Remote
switch.
b. Set the instrument to zero mode – red light will be visible on the Zero Load switch.
c. Remove any beam from the load frame.
CANNON® 2BOperation 21
After completing the deflection calibration, the software moves on to the force
calibration. This routine requires that the zero load be accurately set to create a
condition where the shaft floats freely.
d. Remove the gage block from the load frame.
e. With the load frame in the bath well, install the standard size steel beam onto the
support rails. Wait for the temperature to stabilize.
f. Adjust the ZERO regulator dial until the shaft of the LVDT floats freely by watching
the Deflection value on the computer screen. Turn the ZERO dial counter-clockwise
to lower the shaft. The Deflection value increases until the shaft rests on the beam.
Then slowly turn the dial clockwise until the Deflection value begins to decrease.
Fine tune the ZERO dial. The “float” point is the position where the Deflection value
changes direction.
Note: If the gage block and beam dimensions entered into the
instrument setup are absolutely precise, the defection value should
read zero.
The calibration routine automatically moves on to calibrate the upper valve voltage.
This is an automated process that does not require operator interaction.
Create a profile
Profiles provide the ability to apply a variable force of 0 to 44 Newtons to a test specimen over
a defined period of time. Profiles are designed using the Profile Designer which is a window
consisting of a grid control. The grid control may hold up to 1000 rows of profile packet data.
Each packet consists of an initial force, a final force, and a timespan in ¼ seconds. A fourth,
non-editable column is added to provide a visual representation of the timespan in seconds.
Profile packets are also known as Profile Segments when running profiles.
Profiles may be created from scratch by selecting Profile Designer/Create New Profile from the
application menu or by modifying other profiles by selecting Profile Designer/Open Existing
Profile. In the second case, a file open dialog box will be used to select the existing profile to
modify. In cases in which existing profile data is modified, the Undo button may be used on
modified items to revert the item data back to its original value before saving the profile
should the user decide that the change is not warranted. Modified profiles may be saved
under an existing name or a completely different name.
Entering Packet Data

A data packet is defined by selecting New Item in the grid and entering an initial force value.
Hitting the Enter key will accept the value and navigate to the Final Force column. This
process can be repeated for each editable column in each row until the profile is finished.
Note when traversing from the Timespan column to the next row, the Enter key must be hit a
second time to open the New Item edit box.
Insert and Delete Rows

A data row may be inserted at any row in the list by selecting the first column of the row in
which the new packet is to be inserted and hitting the Insert key on the keyboard. Likewise,
any row may be deleted by selecting the first column in the row and hitting the Delete key on
the keyboard. Note rows that have been deleted may not be retrieved via an undo function.
This data is lost and can only be replaced by inserting a new row as previously described.
Saving a Profile
Once all the desired rows have been added, the profile may be saved by clicking the Save
button in the toolbar. A Save As dialog box will appear in which the user may designate a file
name under which the profile will be saved.
The first time a profile is saved, the user should create a folder in which the profile files and
profile run data files will be saved – both file types of files should be saved in the same folder.
In the Save As dialog box, navigate to the folder where a custom folder such as BBRData will
be created in which to save the files. This folder should be accessible by all users logged into
the system so the profiles can be used by anyone running the application. Typically, the
custom folder should reside in C:\Documents and Settings\All Users on Windows XP and
C:\Users\Public on Windows Vista/7. Open the folder, enter a filename for the profile, and hit
the Save button.
Creating Cyclic Profiles

The Profile Designer may be used to create cyclic profiles; i.e. those that have a repeatable
pattern. To create such a profile, enter the data that should be cycled then use the mouse in
conjunction with the Ctrl key on the keyboard to select the rows that make up the cycle. Hit
the Copy button in the toolbar after all the rows have been selected – the data will be placed
in an internal clipboard and the highlight will disappear. Select the row where the copied data
should be inserted and hit the Paste button. A dialog box will appear which prompts the user
to select the number of cycles that are to be inserted – one cycle consists of all the copied
rows. Up to 100 cycles (or a lesser value if the maximum number of rows will be reached) may
be entered. If more cycles are to be inserted, simply hit the Paste button again and repeat the
process as many times as necessary. Remember, no more than 1000 rows will be allowed for a
profile.
Note: The rows will be pasted in the order in which they originally
appear in the control, not the order in which they are selected.
Selected rows do not have to be adjacent, but they will be pasted back
into the control as adjacent rows.
Copy, Paste, and Save operations may take some time if there are many
rows in the control.
Run a profile
Note: Whenever the TE-BBR Pro is turn off, the temperature control is
disabled.
Allow time for the TE-BBR pro bath to reach the test temperature and
stabilize. The bath should be equilibrated at the test temperature for at
least 30 minutes before running a test.
is in the well.
4. Place the sample on the load frame supports.
6. Select Menu > Start Profile Run.
7. Select the profile to run. Click Open.
The user will then be prompted to adjust the Zero Regulator on the instrument for a contact
load between 0.05 and 0.10 Newtons as indicated by the Force pane in the TE-BBR Status bar
situated at the right of the application window. The profile run will commence when the user
hits OK in the message box.
As the profile runs, force and deflection data will be collected from the instrument and
displayed graphically in the application user interface. The stress and strain will be calculated
and the relationship will be displayed graphically, also. When the profile run is complete, a
Save As dialog box will appear in which the user may assign a name to the CSV data file. The
profile run data files should be stored in the same file folder with the profile files.
The profile is made up of Profile Segments. Each row or packet added in the Profile
Designer makes up a segment. While the profile is running, the segment information is
updated in the main window – see the following diagram.
The diagram shows an 18 second profile consisting of 3 segments named 0to5cycle3.pfl. It

shows the 2nd defined profile segment is currently running. The segment length is 6.0 seconds
and starts with an initial force of 5 Newtons and ends with a final force of 5 Newtons. The
segment information will be updated at the start of each profile segment.
Beam Preparation from Liquid Material

The method described below is essentially a description of current ASTM/AASHTO-approved
test methods for asphalt bending-beam preparation. Nothing in this manual procedure is
intended to supersede the current methodology. Consult the appropriate method for specific
test procedures.
Beams from solid material samples must be cut using tile saws or similar tools.
Overview
Asphalt beam dimensions
The desired dimensions for a standard test beam are 127 mm (5") long, 12.7 mm (0.50") wide
and 6.35 mm (0.25") thick. The load frame of the TE-BBR Pro features adjustable rails that can
support span lengths of 100 mm, 120 mm, 140 mm, and 160 mm. A test beam must be at least
slightly longer than the span to ensure adequate support. Beam width and thickness may also
vary depending on the testing methodology. Refer to Initial start-up on page 19 for
instructions on programming the beam dimensions into the software.
Test method
The bending-beam rheometer is designed to measure the low-temperature stiffness of asphalt
binders. Low temperature stiffness is significantly affected by the thermal history of the
specimen. Therefore, from the time the specimen is poured until the completion of the test,
time intervals and temperatures should be strictly controlled. Appropriate methodology must
be followed precisely. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in errors of 30% or more in
the measured stiffness.
Specimen preparation involves three major steps:
• Mold preparation
• Specimen pouring
• Specimen demolding
CANNON® 27
Mold preparation
A diagram of a specimen mold often used to prepare the test beam is included in the appendix
of this manual. To prepare the mold for filling, execute the following checklist:
1. Cover the inside surfaces of the metal bars with tacking material.
The tacking material should be a commercial petroleum-based grease that retains its
tackiness at the pouring temperature without stiffening excessively at low temperatures.
The layer should be uniform and very thin. The purpose of the grease is to hold the
plastic strips in contact with the metal faces of the mold. After spreading the thin film of
grease, clean the sides and edges of the bars with a clean tissue moistened with solvent
to prevent grease from coming in contact with the poured asphalt.
2. Cover the greased surfaces of the three metal bars with the plastic strips.
When applying the strips, avoid entrapping air bubbles between the strips and the bars.
First locate the wider plastic strip and align it with the greased side of the (wider) base
plate, pressing it firmly into place.
The narrower plastic strips for the side plates are made longer but should match the
width of the side plates exactly. Place these two plastic strips on top of the tacking film,
and press the strips onto the bars.
3. Debond the end pieces.
The only inner metal surfaces of the assembled mold which will not be covered by plastic
are the inner edges of the two short end pieces. To prevent asphalt from sticking to these
surfaces cover them with a thin layer of debonding agent (a mixture of talcum powder
and glycerol works well) using a narrow spatula, wire or rod. Avoid spreading the
mixture on the plastic surfaces.
4. Assemble the mold.
Place the end pieces at the ends of the base plate, on the face covered with the plastic
sheet, then place the two side bars on the sides of the end plates with their covered sides
facing inward. Use two rubber O-rings to hold the side bars securely to the base bar at
each end of the mold.
5. Inspect the mold.
After assembling the mold, inspect it for any air bubbles or detachment between the
plastic sheets and the bars. To do this, insert a clean metal bar 6.35 mm (0.25") thick into
28 3BBeam Preparation from Liquid Material CANNON®

the mold and move it back and forth (using sliding action) between the two end pieces.
This will enable you to check that the plastic sheets are completely attached to the bars
and that the sample volume is accurate.
When the above steps have been completed, the mold is ready for pouring. After it is
assembled, keep the mold at room temperature until the asphalt is to be poured.
Specimen pouring
Follow the checklist below to pour a specimen for testing in the TE-BBR Pro.
1. Heat the asphalt binder sample.
Heat the asphalt sample in an oven at a temperature not exceeding 165° C to 180 °C (329
°F to 356 °F) until it has become sufficiently fluid to pour. The temperature should be
sufficient to produce a coefficient of viscosity of from 100 to 200 cSt. The time and
temperature required will depend on the size of the sample and the hardness of the
asphalt. For virgin asphalt, and for a sample of about 50 gm (3 oz. tin), 60 minutes at 135
°C (275 °F) is usually sufficient.
Warning: Take appropriate precautions when handling hot asphalt.

This includes the use of safety gloves and safety goggles.
The sample should be stirred occasionally to aid heat transfer and to assure uniformity.
Excessive stirring should be avoided to prevent oxidative hardening. After bringing to
the required temperature, stir the sample until it is homogeneous and free of air bubbles.
2. Pour the asphalt.
Pour the asphalt into the mold, starting at one end and moving slowly toward the other.
Hold the sample container 25-40 mm (1 to 1.5") from the mold and pour continuously
until the mold is completely filled. Try to fill the mold in one pass. Pouring the beam in
several passes should be avoided since it may entrap air gaps or bubbles in the specimen.
Overfill the molds slightly with asphalt so that the excess can be trimmed after the
asphalt cools. Overfilling is necessary so that the demolded specimen has square edges
and uniform width. After pouring the specimen, cool the filled mold at room
temperature (about 20 °C [68 °F] or greater) for 45 to 60 minutes.
3. Trim the specimen.
CANNON® 3BBeam Preparation from Liquid 29

M t i l
After the specimen has cooled, use a hot knife or a heated spatula to trim the upper face
of the specimen so that it is level with the top of the mold. Any excess asphalt on the
side bars should be carefully cleaned with the hot knife or other appropriate sharp-edged
instrument.
Note: Trimming the specimen and cleaning the top side of the mold
are very important. If the width of the specimen is more than 12.7 mm
(0.25"), which is the case if the specimen is not trimmed carefully, it
will not fit correctly on the device supports. If the upper side of the
mold is not cleaned carefully, the specimen will adhere to the side bars,
making removal difficult.
4. Cure the specimen.

After trimming the filled mold, allow the mold to remain at room temperature for one
hour (± 15 minutes) before demolding. This period of time is necessary for the specimen
to reach thermal equilibrium.
Specimen demolding
Caution: Be careful when cooling the specimen; at very low
temperatures some asphalts are very brittle.
Do not use the TE-BBR test bath to cool the sample. Immersing the
warm mold in the bath could disturb the temperature equilibration
and force a delay in testing.
If cooling is too rapid, the difference in contraction rate between the
mold and the asphalt may result in internal stresses and cracking.
1. Cool the specimen.

Using a small set of laboratory tongs, submerge the filled mold in a cold chamber or ice
bath for 5 to minutes, usually no longer than five minutes. Harder asphalt will require
less time. At this stage the specimen need not reach the testing temperature; the cooling
is done only for the sake of demolding the specimen.
2. Demold the specimen per the following instructions.
Note: The demolding operation should be done as quickly as possible

to prevent deformation of the specimen.

a. Remove the specimen from the bath and wipe it dry. Demolding should start
immediately.
b. Remove the O-rings, then shear the base plate to the side.
c. Carefully peel off the base plate plastic sheet adhering to the asphalt specimen.
d. Shear off the side bars by applying opposite rotations at the ends of the bars. Then
peel off the side plastic strips and remove the end pieces.
e. Inspect the asphalt specimen to make sure that the sides are uniform and free of
any irregularities.
3. Store the asphalt beams in the test bath. A small beaker or wire frame in a corner of the
bath can be used for this purpose.
4. Record the time the beam is placed in the bath.
CANNON® 3BBeam Preparation from Liquid 31

M t i l

Specifications
Table 10 — Specifications
Specifications Details
Model TE-BBR Pro
Methodology For research applications
Applications Asphalt
Dimensions (w × d × h ) Note: height of TE-BBR Pro includes load unit
TE-BBR Pro 61 cm × 54 cm × 69 cm (24 in × 21.3 in × 27.2 in)
Heat exchanger 42 cm × 54 cm × 47 cm (16.5 in × 21.3 in × 18.5 in)
Note: allow at least 6 inches to front and rear measurements
for air flow and rear cable/tubing connections
Weight
TE-BBR Pro 61.2 kg (135 lb)
Heat exchanger 52.6 kg (116 lb)
Shipping weight
TE-BBR Pro 68 kg (150 lb)
Heat exchanger 59 kg (130 lb)
Bath volume 5 L (1.33 gal)
Heat exchanger coolant 2 L (.53 gal) 30% ethylene glycol/70% water
volume
Power requirements 100 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 1800 watts; 20 A circuit
Operating conditions 15 °C to 30 °C, 10% to 90% relative humidity (non-
condensing), Installation Category II, Pollution Degree 2
Compliance CE Mark: EMC Directive (2004/108/EC); Low Voltage
Directive (2006/95/EC); ROHS
CANNON® 33
34 4BSpecifications CANNON®
Warranty
Products limited warranty
In addition to other manufacturers’ warranties, CANNON® Instrument Company (“the
Company”) warrants all products (other than reagents and chemicals) delivered to and
retained by their original purchasers to be free from defect in material and workmanship for
one year from the date of the Company’s invoice to the purchaser. For a period of one year
from the date of such invoice, the Company will correct, either by repair or replacement at the
Company’s sole election, any defect in material or workmanship (not including defects due to
misuse, abuse, abnormal conditions or operation, accident or acts of God, or to service or
modification of the product without prior authorization of the Company) without charge for
parts and labor. The determination of whether any product has been subject to misuse or
abuse will be made solely by the Company.
The Company shall not be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages, or any
damage to plant, personnel, equipment or products, directly or indirectly resulting from the
use or misuse of any product. Representations and warranties made by any person, including
dealers and representatives of the Company, which are inconsistent, in conflict with, or in
excess of the terms of this warranty shall not be binding upon the Company unless placed in
writing and approved by an officer of the Company.
Reagent and chemical warranty

CANNON® Instrument Company (“the Company”) warrants all reagents and chemicals sold
by the Company and delivered to and retained by their original purchasers to conform to the
weight, specifications and standards stated on the package. The Company will, at its sole
option, either replace or refund the price (net of freight, handling charges and taxes), of any
reagent or chemical sold by the Company which does not conform to such weight,
specifications and standards upon the prompt return of the unused portion. Except for
replacement or refund of the net price, the Company shall not be liable for any damages
occurring as a consequence of the failure of any reagent or chemical sold by the Company to
conform to the weight, specifications and standards stated on the package.
CANNON® 35
Returning a product to CANNON

Before returning a CANNON product for repair or service, make every attempt to identify the
problem. If, after careful checking, the problem remains unidentified or unsolved, telephone
CANNON Instrument Company (or the local service agent) to consult with a product
specialist. If the specialist cannot recommend a simple solution or repair, CANNON will
authorize the return of the product through the issuance of a Return Authorization number
(RA).
CANNON Telephone Number 814-353-8000
CANNON Fax Number 814-353-8007
Products returned to CANNON must be carefully packed. Ship prepaid to the following
address:
CANNON Instrument Company
ATTN: Return Authorization # __________
2139 High Tech Road
State College, PA 16803 USA
Please include the following:
Required information
• The Return Authorization number (RA).
• The name and telephone number of the person at your company to contact regarding the
product.
• Shipping and billing instructions for the return of the product to your location.
• A detailed explanation of the reason for the return. If the product is not covered by
warranty, the customer will be provided with an estimate of the repair costs and asked for
approval before any repairs are made. The customer will be required to issue a purchase
order for the cost of the repairs.
Hazardous materials
Stringent government regulations restrict the shipment of mercury. Please contact CANNON
before returning a product that could possibly contain mercury.
Shipping notification
Products returned without prior notification (by either telephone or fax), or without Cannon’s
authorization, will not be accepted. The customer may be billed a testing fee if a product is
returned to CANNON and found to be working properly.
36 5BWarranty CANNON®
Replacement Parts List

Table 11 — TE-BBR Pro replacement parts

TE-BBR Pro control unit 44.5020
TE-BBR Pro load unit 44.5010
Air/water heat exchanger 44.0652 (115 VAC)
44.6053 (230 VAC)
44.6054 (100 VAC)
Lamp cable assembly (red) 44.6610
LVDT cable assembly (blue) 44.6620
Load cell cable assembly (yellow) 44.6630
Probe cable assembly (grey) 44.6640
Hose kit 28.0075
Polyflo kit 44.5051
RS-232 serial cable 80.2210
MAINS power cord varies
Bubble level 44.6310
Beam mold kit 44.6205
Clamp, 10” straight hemostat 44.6320
RCA Cable assembly-two alligator 44.6810
Clamp, travel stop w/ set screws 44.6830
Calibration beam 44.6521
Gage block precision 44.6535
CANNON® 37
Table 11 — TE-BBR Pro replacement parts

Weight 500 gram SST cylinder (9) 44.5008
Beam, calibration SST TEBBR Pro 44.5049
TE-BBR Pro for Windows 44.5052
TE-BBR Pro Operator’s Manual 44.5065
Power cables 28.0067
28.0068
38 6BReplacement Parts List CANNON®

CANNON® Instrument Company
2139 High Tech Road
State College, PA 16823

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CANNON® TE-BBR Pro™

Thermoelectric Bending-Beam Rheometer Pro™

CANNON® Instrument Company

Saving a Profile .........................................................................................................................23

Figure 7 — Heat exchanger connections ....................................................................................... 16

TE-BBR Pro apparatus

Air/water heater exchanger

Figure 1 — TE-BBR Pro apparatus

Figure 2 — TE-BBR Pro load frame

Air/water heat exchanger

Title Reference Number

Notes provide more information about the content that follows.

Cautions alert the operator to conditions that may damage equipment.

Warnings alert the operator to conditions that may cause injury.

• Only qualified personnel should operate the TE-BBR Pro.

• Do not deviate from the installation, operation, or maintenance procedures described in

• Observe all warning labels. Never remove warning labels.

• Never operate damaged or leaking equipment.

• Refer all service and repairs to qualified personnel.

The ~MAINS symbol indicates the connections for the AC power

Unpacking and Installation

1. Carefully unpack the entire contents of the shipment.

Description Catalog Number

Table 4 — Packing list

Description Part Number

10 1BUnpacking and Installation CANNON®

Setup the TE-BBR Pro

Computer system Control unit &

Air/water heater exchanger

Figure 3 — Arrangement of TE-BBR Pro system

CANNON® 1BUnpacking and Installation 11

Table 5 — Tools and materials required

Tool Description Part Description

Part Description Power cables (2)

Bubble level Color-coded cable assemblies (4)

12 1BUnpacking and Installation CANNON®

Figure 4 — Assembled TE-BBR Pro control unit

Color Control unit label Load unit label

7. Carefully set the host computer in position on the work surface.

CANNON® 1BUnpacking and Installation 13

Control unit label Load unit label

Figure 5 — Control unit/load unit connections

14 1BUnpacking and Installation CANNON®

Control unit label Heat exchanger label

Figure 6 — Heat exchanger quick disconnects

CANNON® 1BUnpacking and Installation 15

Figure 7 — Heat exchanger connections

Warning: Ethylene glycol is toxic. Use proper safety precautions when

Caution: Do not use "environmentally-friendly alternatives to ethylene

16 1BUnpacking and Installation CANNON®

1 inch below liner

Figure 8 — Bath well (without load frame)

CANNON® 1BUnpacking and Installation 17

18 1BUnpacking and Installation CANNON®

Table 9 — LED chart

Entering Packet Data

Insert and Delete Rows

Creating Cyclic Profiles

The diagram shows an 18 second profile consisting of 3 segments named 0to5cycle3.pfl. It

Beam Preparation from Liquid Material

28 3BBeam Preparation from Liquid Material CANNON®

Warning: Take appropriate precautions when handling hot asphalt.

CANNON® 3BBeam Preparation from Liquid 29

4. Cure the specimen.

CANNON® TE-BBR Pro Operator's Manual

CANNON® TE-BBR Pro Operator's Manual