What is BS EN 12697-31-Specimen preparation by gyratory compactor about?
BS EN 12697-31 is the 31st part in the multi-series of documents on bituminous mixtures.
BS EN 12697-31 is applicable to bituminous mixtures for specimen preparation by a gyratory compactor. The method is used for:
- Determination of the air voids content of a mixture for a given number of gyrations or derivation of a curve density (or void content) versus number of gyrations
- Preparation of specimens of given height and/or at a predetermined density, for subsequent testing of their mechanical properties
BS EN 12697-31 applies to bituminous mixtures (both those made up in laboratory and those resulting from work site sampling), with an upper aggregate size not larger than 31,5 mm.
Who is BS EN 12697-31-Specimen preparation by gyratory compactor for?
BS EN 12697-31 on specimen preparation by a gyratory compactor is relevant to:
- Manufacturers and suppliers of gyratory compactors
- Manufacturers and suppliers of construction materials
- Construction and civil engineers
- Contractors
- Road maintenance authorities
Why should you use BS EN 12697-31?
Bituminous mixtures, also known as asphalt mixtures, are widely used as construction materials, that impart durability and structural strength to the end-application. Meanwhile, a gyratory compactor of bituminous mixture is used to simulate and reproduce real compaction conditions under actual road paving operations, thus determining the compaction properties of the asphalt. In this regard, the BS EN 12697-31 walks you through the specimen preparation procedures by a gyratory compactor, the results of which can allow you to determine and improve compressive strength. Moreover, you can avoid challenges arising from inconsistent strength and layer interface barriers. The acquired results are also employed in the investigation of volumetric and mechanical characteristics of the asphalt mix.
Overall, by adopting specimen preparation by a gyratory compactor with BS EN 12697-31 guidelines, you can achieve compaction of asphaltic paving material as per your target mixture density or void content. As a result, you can ensure that the bituminous mixture used for your engineering needs has only the required levels of void content so as to prevent intrusion of air and water, which can compromise on the structural integrity of your projects.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 12697-31:2019 supersedes BS EN 12697-31:2007, which is withdrawn. BS EN 12697-31:2019 including some technical changes with respect to BS EN 12697-31:2007. These include:
- Definition of force-angle calibration chain and internal angle deleted
- The series title no longer makes the method exclusively for hot mix asphalt