Designation: D6648 − 08 (Reapproved 2016)

Standard Test Method for

Determining the Flexural Creep Stiffness of Asphalt Binder
Using the Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR)1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6648; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

2
1. Scope E77 Test Method for Inspection and Verification of Ther-
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the mometers
flexural-creep stiffness or compliance and m-value of asphalt 2.2 DIN Standard:4
binders by means of a bending beam rheometer. It is applicable 43760
to material having flexural-creep stiffness values in the range of
20 MPa to 1 GPa (creep compliance values in the range of 50 3. Terminology
nPa–1 to 1 nPa–1) and can be used with unaged material or with 3.1 Definitions:
materials aged using aging procedures such as Test Method 3.1.1 asphalt binder, n—an asphalt-based cement that is
D2872 or Practice D6521. The test apparatus may be operated produced from petroleum residue either with or without the
within the temperature range from –36°C to 0°C. addition of modifiers.
1.2 Test results are not valid for test specimens that deflect 3.1.2 physical hardening, n—a time-dependent, reversible
more than 4 mm or less than 0.08 mm when tested in stiffening of asphalt binder that typically occurs when the
accordance with this test method. binder is stored below room temperature.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:

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safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.2.1 contact load, n—the load, Pc, required to maintain
positive contact between the test specimen, supports, and the
loading shaft; 35 6 10 mN.
3.2.2 flexural creep compliance, D(t), n—the ratio obtained
by dividing the maximum bending strain (see Eq X1.5) in a
2. Referenced Documents beam by the maximum bending stress (Eq X1.4). The flexural
2.1 ASTM Standards:3 creep stiffness is the inverse of the flexural creep compliance.
C802 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Test Pro- 3.2.3 flexural creep stiffness, Se(t), n—the creep stiffness
gram to Determine the Precision of Test Methods for obtained by fitting a second order polynomial to the logarithm
Construction Materials of the measured stiffness at 8.0, 15.0, 30.0 60.0, 120.0, and
D140 Practice for Sampling Bituminous Materials 240.0 s and the logarithm of time (see Eq 5, section 14.4).
D2872 Test Method for Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving
Film of Asphalt (Rolling Thin-Film Oven Test) 3.2.4 measured flexural creep stiffness, Sm(t), n—the ratio
D6521 Practice for Accelerated Aging of Asphalt Binder (see Eq 3, section 14.2) obtained by dividing the measured
Using a Pressurized Aging Vessel (PAV) maximum bending stress (see X1.4) by the measured maxi-
D6373 Specification for Performance Graded Asphalt mum bending strain (see Eq X1.5). Flexural creep stiffness has
Binder been used historically in asphalt technology while creep
compliance is commonly used in studies of viscoelasticity.
3.2.5 m-value, n—the absolute value of the slope of the
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D04 on Road logarithm of the stiffness curve versus the logarithm of time
and Paving Materials and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D04.44 on (see Eq 6, section 14.5).
Rheological Tests.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2016. Published October 2016. Originally 3.2.6 test load, n—the load, Pt, of 240-s duration used to
approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as D6648 – 08. DOI: determine the stiffness of the asphalt binder being tested; 980
10.1520/D6648-08R16. 6 50 mN.
2
This standard is based on SHRP Product 1002.
3
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
4
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Deutsches Institut fuer Normung (German Standards Institute), Beuth Verlag
the ASTM website. GmbH, Burggrafenstrasse 6, 1000 Berlin 30, Germany.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
3.2.7 zero load cell reading—the load indicated by the data 5.4 The creep stiffness and the m-value are used as
acquisition system when the shaft is free floating in the bath performance-based specification criteria for asphalt binders in
and at the position that occurs when first making contact with accordance with Specification D6373.
a test specimen.
6. Interferences
4. Summary of Test Method
6.1 Measurements for which the mid-point deflections of
4.1 The bending beam rheometer is used to measure the the test specimen is greater than 4.0 mm are suspect. Strains in
mid-point deflection of a simply supported prismatic beam of excess of this value may exceed the linear response of asphalt
asphalt binder subjected to a constant load applied to its binders.
mid-point. The device operates only in the loading mode;
6.2 Measurements for which the mid-point deflections of
recovery measurements cannot be obtained with the bending
the test specimen are less than 0.08 mm are suspect. When the
beam rheometer.
mid-point deflection is less than 0.08 mm, the test system
4.2 A prismatic test specimen is placed in the controlled resolution may not be sufficient to produce reliable test results.
temperature fluid bath and loaded with a constant test load for
240.0 s. The test load (980 6 50 mN) and the mid-point 7. Apparatus
deflection of the test specimen are monitored versus time using
7.1 A bending beam rheometer (BBR) test system consist-
a computerized data acquisition system.
ing of the following: (1) a loading frame with test specimen
4.3 The maximum bending stress at the midpoint of the test supports, (2) a controlled temperature liquid bath which
specimen is calculated from the dimensions of the test maintains the test specimen at the test temperature and pro-
specimen, the distance between the supports, and the load vides a buoyant force to counterbalance the force resulting
applied to the test specimen for loading times of 8.0, 15.0, 30.0, from the mass of the test specimen, (3) a computer-controlled
60.0, 120.0, and 240.0 s. The maximum bending strain in the data acquisition system, (4) test specimen molds, and (5) items
test specimen is calculated from the dimensions of the test for verifying and calibrating the system.
specimen and the deflection for the same loading times. The
7.2 Loading Frame—A frame consisting of a set of sample
stiffness of the test specimen for the specific loading times is
supports, a blunt-nosed shaft to apply the load to the midpoint
calculated by dividing the maximum bending stress by the
of the test specimen, a load cell mounted in line with the
maximum bending strain.

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loading shaft, a means for zeroing the load applied to the test
5. Significance and Use specimen, a means for applying a constant load to the test
specimen and a deflection measuring transducer attached to the
5.1 The temperatures for this test are based upon the winter loading shaft. A schematic of the device is shown in Fig. 1.
temperature experienced by the pavement in the geographical
area for which the asphalt binder is intended. 7.3 Loading System—A loading system that is capable of
applying a contact load of 35 6 10 mN to the test specimen and
5.2 The flexural creep stiffness or flexural creep compliance, maintaining a test load of 980 6 50 mN within 6 10 mN.
determined from this test, describes the low-temperature stress- 7.3.1 Loading System Requirements—The rise time for the
strain-time response of asphalt binder at the test temperature test load shall be less than 0.5 s. The rise time is the time
within the range of linear viscoelastic response. required for the load to rise from the 35 6 10 mN contact load
5.3 The low-temperature thermal cracking performance of to the 980 6 50 mN test load. During the rise time the system
asphalt pavements is related to the creep stiffness and the shall dampen the test load to 980 6 50 mN. Between 0.5 and
m-value of the asphalt binder contained in the mix. 5.0 s, the test load shall be within 6 50 mN of the average test

FIG. 1 Schematic of Test Device

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
load, and thereafter shall be within 6 10 mN of the average test verified as per section 11.5. A platinum resistance thermometric device
load. Details of the loading pattern are shown in Fig. 2. meeting DIN Standard 43760 (Class A) is recommended for this purpose.
7.3.2 Loading Shaft—A loading shaft continuous and in line 7.5 Controlled-Temperature Fluid Bath—A controlled-
with the load cell and deflection measuring transducer with a temperature liquid bath capable of maintaining the temperature
spherically shaped end 6.3 6 0.3 mm in radius. at all points in the bath to within 6 0.1°C of the test
7.3.3 Load Cell—A load cell to measure the contact load temperature in the range of –36°C to 0°C. Placing a test
and the test load. It shall have a minimum capacity of no less specimen in the bath may cause the bath temperature to
than 2.00 N and a resolution of at least 2.5 mN. It shall be fluctuate 6 0.2°C from the target test temperature. Conse-
mounted in line with the loading shaft and above the fluid level quently bath fluctuations of 6 0.2°C during iso-thermal con-
in the controlled temperature bath. ditioning shall be allowed.
7.3.4 Linear Variable Differential Transducer (LVDT)—A 7.5.1 Bath Agitator—A bath agitator for maintaining the
linear variable differential transducer or other suitable device to required temperature homogeneity with agitation intensity
measure the deflection of the test specimen. It shall have a such that the fluid currents do not disturb the testing process
linear range of at least 6 mm, and be capable of resolving linear and mechanical noise caused by vibrations is less than the
movement of 2.5 µm. It shall be mounted axially with and resolution specified in 7.3.3 and 7.3.4.
above the loading shaft. 7.5.2 Circulating Bath (Optional)—A circulating bath sepa-
7.3.5 Sample Supports—Two stainless steel or other non- rate from the test frame, which pumps the bath fluid through
corrosive metal supports with a 3.0 6 0.3 mm contact radius the test bath. If used, vibrations from the circulating system
and spaced 102 6 1.0 mm apart. The spacing of the supports shall be isolated from the bath test chamber so that mechanical
shall be measured to 6 0.3 mm and the measured value shall noise is less than the resolution specified in 7.3.3 and 7.3.4.
be used in the calculations in Section 14. The supports shall be 7.6 Data Acquisition and Control Components—A data
dimensioned to ensure that the test specimen remains in contact acquisition system that resolves loads to the nearest 2.5 mN,
with the radiused portion of the support during the entire test. test specimen deflection to the nearest 2.5 µm, and bath fluid
See Fig. 3. temperature to the nearest 0.1°C. The data acquisition system
7.3.5.1 The width of the test specimen support that contacts shall sense the point in time when the signal to switch from the
the test specimen shall be 9.50 6 0.25 mm. See Fig. 3. contact load to the test load is activated. This time shall be used
7.3.5.2 A vertical alignment pin 2 to 4 mm in diameter shall as the zero loading time for the test load and deflection signals.
be provided at the back of each support to align the test

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Using this time as the reference for zero time, the data
specimen on the supports. The front face of the pins shall be acquisition system shall provide a record of subsequent load
6.75 6 0.25 mm from the middle of the support. See Fig. 3. and deflection measurements at 8.0, 15.0, 30.0, 60.0, 120.0,
7.4 BBR Thermometric Device—A calibrated thermometric and 240.0 s.
device integral to the BBR and capable of measuring the 7.6.1 Filtering of Acquired Load and Deflection Signals—
temperature to 0.1°C over the range from –36°C to 0°C with its The load and deflection signals shall be filtered with a low pass
thermal sensor (probe) mounted within 50 mm of the geometric analog or digital (or both) filter that removes components with
center of the test specimen. frequencies greater than 4 Hz from the load and deflection
NOTE 1—The required temperature measurement can be accomplished signals. Filtering may be accomplished by averaging five or
with an appropriately calibrated thermometric device (platinum resistance more digital signals equally spaced in time about the time at
or thermistor based). Calibration of the thermometric device can be which the signal is reported. The averaging shall be over a time

FIG. 2 Definition of Loading Pattern

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)

FIG. 3 Schematic of Specimen Supports

period less than or equal to 60.2 s of the reporting time. For 7.8.2 Stainless Steel (Thin) Beam for Overall System
example, the load and deflection signals at 8.0 s may be the Check—One stainless steel beam 1.0 to 1.6 mm thick by 12.7
average of signals at 7.8, 7.9, 8.0, 8.1, 8.2 s. 6 0.1 mm wide by 127 6 5 mm long with an elastic modulus
7.7 Test Specimen Molds—Test specimen molds with inte- reported to three significant figures by the manufacturer of the
rior dimensions of 6.35 6 0.05 mm wide by 12.70 6 0.05 mm BBR. The manufacturer of the BBR shall measure and report
deep by 127 6 5 mm long fabricated from aluminum or the thickness of this beam to the nearest 0.01 mm and the width
stainless steel as shown in Fig. 4, or from silicone rubber as to the nearest 0.05 mm. The dimensions of the beam shall be
shown in Fig. 5. used to calculate the modulus of the beam during the overall
7.7.1 The thickness of the two spacers used for each mold system check (see section 11.3).
(small end pieces used in the metal molds) shall be measured 7.8.3 Standard Masses—Standard masses for verification
with a micrometer and shall meet the requirements of Section and calibration as follows:
7.7. The measurements shall be recorded as part of the 7.8.3.1 Verification of Load Cell Calibration—One or more
laboratory quality control program. masses totaling 100.0 6 0.2 g and two masses of 2.0 6 0.2 g

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7.8 Items for Calibration or Verification—The following each for verifying the calibration of the load cell (see section
items are required to verify and calibrate the BBR. 11.3).
7.8.1 Stainless Steel (Thick) Beam for Compliance Mea- 7.8.3.2 Calibration of Load Cell—Four masses each of
surement and Load Cell Calibrations—One stainless steel known mass 6 0.2 g, and equally spaced in mass over the
beam 6.4 6 0.3 mm thick by 12.7 6 0.3 mm wide by 127 6 range of the load cell (see A1.2).
5 mm long for measuring system compliance and calibrating 7.8.3.3 Daily Overall System Check—Two or more masses,
load cell. When this beam is used to measure the thickness of each of known mass to 60.2 g for conducting overall system
test specimens as per section 13.2, the thickness of this beam check as specified by the manufacturer (see section 11.4).
shall be measured to the nearest 0.01 mm. This measurement 7.8.3.4 Accuracy of Masses—Accuracy of the masses in
shall be used in the calculation of the thickness of the test section 7.8.3 shall be verified at least once each every three
specimens when using the equations in section 13.2.3.1. years.

FIG. 4 Dimensions and Specifications for Aluminum Molds

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FIG. 5 Dimensions for Fixture for Silicone Molds

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7.8.4 Typical Gage Block—A stepped gage block with
thickness measured to 65 µm for calibrating and for verifying
the calibration of the displacement transducer (see Fig. 6 for
typical design).
7.9.1 A partial immersion liquid-in-glass thermometer with
an ice point and calibrated in accordance with Test Method E77
at least once per year. A suitable thermometer is designated
ASTM 133C-00.
7.9 Calibrated Thermometric Device—Portable calibrated 7.9.2 A thermometric device based upon a platinum or
thermometric device for verification of the BBR thermometric thermistor sensor calibrated at least once per year.
device of suitable range with resolution of 0.1°C as per 7.9.1 or 7.10 Alignment Fixture (Optional)—A fixture supplied by
7.9.2. the manufacturer to align the loading shaft so that it contacts

FIG. 6 Silicone Rubber Mold

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
the specimen at the longitudinal and transverse center of the 9.2 Alcohol baths are flammable and toxic. Locate the
loaded portion of the test specimen. controlled temperature bath in a well-ventilated area away
from sources of ignition. Avoid breathing alcohol vapors, and
8. Materials contact of the bath fluid with the skin.
8.1 Sheeting for Metal Molds—Used to line the interior 9.3 Contact between the bath fluid and skin at the lower
faces of the three long metal mold sections. Hot asphalt binder temperatures used in this test method can cause frostbite.
shall not distort the sheeting when the test specimen is
prepared. The sheeting shall be sufficiently rigid so that the 10. Preparation of Apparatus
shrinkage of the asphalt binder does not distort the sheeting or
pull the sheeting from the metal surfaces when the test 10.1 Clean the supports, loading head, and bath fluid of any
specimen is cooled. particulates and coatings as necessary.
8.1.1 Clear plastic sheeting 0.08 to 0.15 mm thick. Trans- NOTE 3—Because of the brittleness of asphalt binder at the specified
parency film sold for use with laser printers has been found test temperatures, small fragments of asphalt binder can be introduced into
suitable for this purpose. the bath fluid. If these fragments are present on the supports or the loading
head, the measured deflection may be affected. The small fragments,
8.1.2 Silicone coated release paper sheeting for metal molds because of their small size, will deform under load and add an apparent
(Optional)—Silicone coated release paper 4.0 to 5.0 mil thick deflection to the true deflection of the test specimen. Filtration of the bath
and coated on both sides. fluid will aid in preserving the required cleanliness.
8.2 Sheeting for Silicone Molds—Silicone rubber sheeting 10.2 Select the test temperature and adjust the bath fluid to
for lining the space between the glass plate and the silicone the selected temperature. Allow the bath to equilibrate to the
mold. Hot asphalt binder shall not distort the sheeting when the test temperature 6 0.1°C before conducting a test.
test specimen is prepared. The sheeting shall be sufficiently 10.3 Turn on the loading and data acquisition system and
rigid so that the shrinkage of the asphalt binder does not distort start the software as explained in the manufacturer’s manual.
the sheeting or pull the sheeting from the glass when the test Allow the data acquisition system and computer to warm up
specimen is cooled. according to the manufacturer’s instruction manual before
NOTE 2—Silicone rubber sheeting, 10 6 0.5 mm thick, Shore A operating the BBR.
Hardness 60 has been found acceptable for this purpose.5
8.3 Material for Adhering Strips to Metal Mold Faces— 11. Verification of the Calibration of the BBR

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Used to hold the plastic or silicone strips to the interior faces Components
NOTE 4—Additional verification steps may be performed at the option
of the three long metal mold sections. Petroleum-based grease,
of the manufacturer. At the option of the manufacturer, the verification and
a mixture such as glycerin and Dextrin, talc or Kaolin (china calibration steps may be combined.
clay) or Versamid Resin and mineral oil used to coat the bottom
11.1 Verification of Displacement Transducer—On each
and sides of mold to prevent the asphalt binder from sticking to
day, before any tests are conducted, verify the calibration of the
the mold. Other materials may be used for this purpose if they
displacement transducer using a stepped-gage block of known
have been shown not to affect the physical properties of the test
dimensions similar to the one shown in Fig. 6. With the loading
specimen. Silicone grease shall not be used. No silicone-based
frame mounted in the bath at the test temperature remove all
products shall be used.
beams from the supports and place the gage block on a
8.4 Release Agent for Coating Metal Molds—Used to coat reference platform underneath the loading shaft according to
the vertical interior end faces of the metal molds. See Section the instructions supplied by the instrument manufacturer.
8.3. Apply a 100 6 0.2 g mass to the loading shaft and measure the
8.5 Bath Fluid—A bath fluid that is not absorbed by or does rise of the steps with the displacement transducer. Compare the
not affect the properties of the asphalt binder being tested. The measured values as indicated by the data acquisition system
mass density of the fluid shall not exceed 1.05 g/cm3 at the test with the known dimensions of the gage. If the known dimen-
temperature as measured with suitable hydrometers. The bath sions as determined from the gage block and the dimensions
fluid shall be optically clear at the test temperature. indicated by the data acquisition system differ by more than
8.5.1 Suitable bath fluids include, but are not limited to 615 µm, calibration is required. Perform the calibration as per
ethanol, methanol, stabilized isopropanol, and glycol- A1.1 and repeat section 11.1. If the requirements of section
methanol-water mixtures (for example, 60 % glycol, 15 % 11.1 cannot be met after calibration, discontinue use of the
methanol, and 25 % water). Silicone fluids or mixtures con- device and consult the manufacturer.
taining silicones shall not be used. 11.2 Verification of Freely Operating Air Bearing—On each
day, before any tests are conducted, verify that the air bearing
9. Hazards is operating freely and is free of friction. Sections 11.2.1 and
9.1 Observe standard laboratory safety procedures when 11.2.2 shall be used to verify that the shaft is free of friction.
handling hot asphalt binder and preparing test specimens. If the requirements of 11.2.1 and 11.2.2 are not satisfied,
friction is present in the air bearing. Clean the shaft and adjust
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the clearance of the displacement transducer as per the manu-
Available from McMaster-Carr Supply Company, P.O. Box 440, New
Brunswick, NJ 08903, Silicone rubber sheeting, Part No. 863K43:Shore A Hardness facturer’s instructions. If this does not eliminate the friction,
60. discontinue use of the BBR and consult the manufacturer.

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
NOTE 5—Friction may be caused by a poorly adjusted displacement NOTE 6—The load indicated by the load cell is affected by the buoyant
transducer core that rubs against its housing, an accumulation of asphalt force caused by submergence of the shaft in the bath fluid. Changes in the
binder on the loading shaft, by oil or other particulates in the air supply, level of the bath fluid and the density of the bath fluid can also affect the
and other causes. zero of the load cell.
11.2.1 Place the thin steel beam (section 7.8.2) on the 11.3.3.2 While free floating at this position the BBR device
sample supports and apply a 35 6 10 mN load to the beam shall indicate 0 6 5 mN. If the requirements of Section 11.3.3
using the zero load regulator. Observe the reading of the LVDT cannot be met after calibration, discontinue use of the device
as indicated by the data acquisition system. Gently grasp the and consult the manufacturer.
loading platform and lift the shaft upwards approximately 5
mm by observing the reading of the LVDT. When the shaft is 11.4 Daily Overall System Check—On each day, before any
released it shall immediately float downward and make contact tests are conducted and with the loading frame mounted in the
with the beam. bath, perform a check on the overall operation of the system.
Place the 1.0 to 1.6 mm thick stainless steel (thin) beam of
11.2.2 Remove any beams from the supports. Use the zero
known modulus as described in section 7.8.2 on the sample
load regulator to adjust the loading shaft so that it is free
supports. Following the instructions supplied by the
floating at the approximate midpoint of its vertical travel.
Gently add a coin or other mass of approximately 2 g (for manufacturer, place the beam on the supports and apply a 50 or
example, copper U.S. penny) to the loading shelf. The shaft 100.0 6 0.2 g initial mass (491 or 981 mN 6 2 mN) to the
shall slowly drop downward under the mass. beam to ensure that the beam is seated and in full contact with
the supports. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply
11.3 Verification of Load Cell—Verify the calibration of the a second additional load of 100 to 300.0 6 0.2 g to the beam.
load cell as follows: The software provided by the manufacturer shall use the
11.3.1 Contact Load—On each day before any tests are change in load and associated change in deflection to calculate
conducted, verify the calibration of the load cell in the range of the modulus of the beam to three significant Figures. The
the contact load. Place the 6.35 mm thick stainless steel modulus reported by the software shall be within 10 percent of
compliance beam (Section 7.8.1) on the supports. Apply a 20 the modulus reported by the manufacturer of the BBR, other-
6 10 mN load to the beam using the zero load pressure wise the overall operation of the BBR shall be considered
regulator. Add the 2.0 6 0.2 g mass as specified in section 7.8.3 suspect and the manufacturer of the device shall be consulted.
to the loading platform. The increase in the load displayed by

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the data acquisition system shall be 20 6 5 mN. Add a second 11.5 Verification of Thermometric Device—On each day
2.0 6 0.2 g mass to the loading platform. The increase in the before any tests are conducted, and whenever the test tempera-
load displayed by the data acquisition system shall be 20 6 5 ture is changed, verify calibration of the temperature detector
mN. If the increases in displayed load are not 20 6 5 mN, by using a calibrated thermometric device as described in
calibration is required. Perform the calibration as per A1.2 and section 7.9. With the loading frame placed in the liquid bath,
repeat section 11.3.1. If the requirements of section 11.3.1 immerse the probe of the thermometric device in the liquid
cannot be met after calibration, discontinue use of the device bath close to the temperature transducer and compare the
and consult the manufacturer. temperature indicated by the thermometric device to the
temperature displayed by the data acquisition system. If the
11.3.2 Test Load—On each day, before any tests are
temperature indicated by the data acquisition system does not
conducted, verify the calibration of the load cell in the range of
the test load. Place the 6.35 mm thick stainless steel compli- agree with the thermometric device within 60.1°C, calibration
ance beam (section 7.8.1) on the supports. Use the zero load as per A1.3 is required.
regulator (contact load) to apply a 20 6 10 mN load to the 11.6 Verification of Front-to-Back Alignment of Loading
beam. Add the 100 g mass to the loading platform. The Shaft—When the instrument is installed or otherwise disturbed
increase in the load displayed by the data acquisition system through handling such that the alignment of the loading shaft
shall be 981 6 5 mN. Otherwise, calibrate the load cell in may be suspect, the alignment of the loading shaft with the
accordance with A1.2 and repeat section 11.3.2. If the require- center of the sample supports shall be checked with an
ments of section 11.3.2 cannot be met after calibration, alignment gage supplied by the manufacturer or by measure-
discontinue use of the device and consult the manufacturer. ment as follows: Cut a strip of white paper about 25 mm in
11.3.3 Verification of Zero Load Cell Reading—On each length and slightly narrower than the width of the compliance
day, before any tests are conducted and with the loading frame beam. Stick the paper strip to the center of the compliance
mounted in the bath, bring the loading shaft to the vertical beam with Scotch tape. Move the frame out of the bath, place
position that it will occupy at the start of a test (starting the compliance beam on the supports and place a small section
position). of carbon paper over the bond paper. With the air pressure
11.3.3.1 The vertical position of the shaft at the start of a test applied to the air bearing, push the shaft downward causing the
when the contact load is applied shall be determined by placing carbon paper to make an imprint on the white paper. Remove
the thick stainless steel beam (See Section 7.8.1) on the the beam and measure the distance from the center of the
supports and placing a 100 g mass on the loading platform. The imprint to each edge of the beam with a pair of vernier calipers.
reading displayed for the position transducer indicates the The difference between the two measurements shall be 1.0 mm
approximate position of the shaft when a 6.35-mm thick beam or less. If this requirement is not met, contact the manufacturer
is tested. of the device.

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12. Preparation of Molds and Test Specimens overfilling the mold. When pouring, hold the sample container
12.1 Preparation of Molds—Each time specimens are 20 to 30 mm from the top of the mold, pouring continuously
prepared, prior to filling the molds, prepare the molds as toward the other end in a single pass. Place the filled mold on
described in Section 12.1 or 12.2.2. the laboratory bench and allow the mold to cool for 45 to 60
min to room temperature. After cooling to room temperature,
NOTE 7—Silicone molds may be used at the option of the user but metal trim the exposed face of the cooled specimens flush with the
molds shall be used for reference purposes. top of the mold using a hot knife or a heated spatula.
12.1.1 Preparation of Metal Molds—Remove any deposits NOTE 10—Immediately before trimming, a heated spatula may be
of asphalt binder, grease or other residue from the molds. brought into momentary contact with the surface of the asphalt binder so
Visually inspect the metal mold components to verify that they that the surface of the asphalt binder is softened just sufficiently to flatten
are free of dings, nicks, or burrs that would affect the spacing the surface. This process is often referred to a “buttering” and has been
of the side plates and reject those components with such dings, shown to improve the quality of test specimens prepared from the stiffer
grades of binders. This procedure should not be used with the softer binder
nicks, and burrs. To prepare the metal molds, spread a very thin grades.
layer of the material described in 8.3 on the interior faces of the
three long metal mold sections. Use only the amount of grease 12.3.2 Molding Test Specimen (Silicone Rubber Mold)—If
necessary to hold the plastic or silicone strips to the metal. the viscosity of the binder warrants, the operator may preheat
Strips that have become distorted from previous heating shall the silicone rubber mold in its aluminum fixture in a 135°C
not be used. Place the strips over the metal faces and rub the oven for up to 30 min prior to filling. Fill the mold from the top
strips with firm finger pressure. Assemble the mold as shown in of the mold in a slow steady manner taking care not to entrap
Fig. 4 using the rubber O-rings to hold the pieces of the mold air bubbles. Fill the mold to the top with no appreciable
together. Inspect the mold and press the plastic or silicone film overfilling. Allow the mold and its contents to cool to room
against the metal to force out any air bubbles. If air bubbles temperature for 45 to 60 min after pouring.
remain, disassemble the mold and recoat the metal faces with 12.4 Storing and Demolding Test Specimens:
grease. Cover the inside faces of the two end pieces with a thin 12.4.1 Store all test specimens in their molds at room
film of the glycerol and talc mixture to prevent the asphalt temperature prior to testing.
binder from sticking to the metal end pieces. After assembly, NOTE 11—Time-dependent increases in stiffness can occur when an
keep the mold at room temperature until pouring the asphalt asphalt binder is stored at room temperature for even short periods of time.

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binder.
12.4.2 Just prior to demolding, cool the metal or silicone
12.1.2 Preparation of Silicone Molds—Remove asphalt mold containing the test specimen in a cold chamber or liquid
binder, grease or other residue by wiping the molds with a bath for no longer than 5 min, but only long enough to stiffen
clean, dry cloth. Do not soak the molds in an organic solvent. the test specimen so that it can be readily demolded without
Prepare silicone rubber molds by assembling the two mold distortion. In no case shall the sample be exposed to demolding
sections as shown in Fig. 5. temperatures that are within 10°C of the test temperature. Do
NOTE 8—A cloth moistened with a volatile solvent that is essentially not cool the molds containing the specimens in the test bath
residue free, such as acetone or heptane, is satisfactory for this purpose as because it may cause temperature fluctuations in the bath to
well as for removing markings on the molds. Allow the molds to dry at exceed 6 0.2°C.
ambient temperature for at least 10 min prior to use.
NOTE 12—Excessive cooling may cause unwanted hardening of the
12.2 Preparation of Test Specimen: asphalt binder, thereby causing increased variability in the test data.
12.2.1 If unaged binder is to be tested, obtain test samples
12.4.3 Immediately demold the specimen when it is suffi-
according to Practice D140. Laboratory-conditioned samples
ciently stiff to demold without distortion by disassembling the
or samples of asphalt binder recovered from mixtures shall be
metal mold or by removing the test specimen from the silicone
obtained in accordance with appropriate test methods or
rubber mold. To avoid distorting the specimen, demold the
methods of practice.
specimen by sliding the plastic strips and metal side pieces
12.2.2 Heat the asphalt binder in an oven set at 168 6 5°C from the mold assembly and gently peeling the plastic or
until the asphalt binder is sufficiently fluid to pour and stir silicone paper strips from the test specimen.
gently to homogenize the sample. If sufficiently fluid to pour
the asphalt binder may be poured directly from PAV residue NOTE 13—During demolding, handle the specimen with care to prevent
that has been degassed as specified in D6521. distortion. Full contact at specimen supports is assumed in the analysis. A
warped test specimen may affect the measured stiffness and m-value.
NOTE 9—If the asphalt binder does not pour easily when heated in an NOTE 14—If the plastic or silicone release paper strips stick to the test
oven set to no more than 173°C it may be heated at a higher temperature specimen, the specimen with strips attached may be dipped in a bath as
in an oven until it is sufficiently fluid to pour. If the binder is heated in an described in 12.4.2 for no more than 5 s to facilitate removal of the strips.
oven set to a temperature greater than 173°C the oven temperature and
time above 173°C shall be noted in the report. 13. Procedure
12.3 Molding and Trimming Test Specimens—Mold test 13.1 When testing a specimen for compliance with Speci-
specimens according to section 12.3.1 or 12.3.2. fication D6373, select the appropriate test temperature from
12.3.1 Molding Test Specimens (Metal Mold)—With the Specification D6373. After demolding, immediately place the
mold at room temperature, begin pouring the binder from one test specimen in the testing bath and condition it at the testing
end of the mold and move toward the other end, slightly temperature. The seating load shall be applied to the test

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specimen within 60 6 5 minutes after the test specimen is 13.2.3.1 Establish the displacement reading corresponding
placed in the testing bath. The test specimen shall remain to the top of the supports by placing the 6.35-mm thick
submerged in the bath fluid at the test temperature 60.1°C for stainless steel beam (section 7.8.1) on the supports. Apply a 35
the entire 60 6 5 minutes. Testing shall be completed within 4 6 10 mN contact load to the steel beam and record the reading
h after specimens are poured. of the displacement transducer as Rs1. Invert the steel beam and
NOTE 15—Asphalt binders may harden rapidly when held at low
obtain a second reading, Rs2. Average the two readings and
temperatures. This effect, which is called physical hardening, is reversible record the average as Rs. Calculate the displacement transducer
when the asphalt binder is heated to room temperature or slightly above. reading that corresponds to the top of the supports (see Fig. 7):
Because of physical hardening, conditioning time must be carefully
controlled if repeatable results are to be obtained. R o 5 R s 1t s (1)

13.2 Test Specimen Thickness Measurement—The thickness where:

of the test specimen shall be taken as 6.35 mm, the specified Ro = displacement transducer reading corresponding to top
thickness of the metal spacers used to mold the test specimen. of supports,
(See section 7.7.1). Rs = average of two displacement transducer readings with
13.2.1 Optional Methods for Measuring Test Specimen displacement transducer in contact with top of the steel
Thickness—Two optional methods of thickness measurement test specimen, and
(Sections 13.2.2 and 13.2.3) may be used at the discretion of ts = measured thickness of steel beam (section 7.8.1).
the user. Measured insert thickness (section 13.2) shall be used
13.2.3.2 Establish the thickness of the test specimen imme-
as the reference method for the metal molds. Methods 13.2.2 or
diately before testing by placing the test specimen on the
13.2.3 must be used with the silicone molds.
supports. Apply a 35 6 10 mN contact load to the test
NOTE 16—Measurement of the test specimen thickness in accordance specimen and record the reading of the displacement trans-
with sections 13.2.2 or 13.2.3 may reduce the variability in the test results ducer as Ra1. Invert the test specimen and obtain a second
but this may be offset by the additional handling required. When using the
procedure in section 13.2.2 or 13.2.3, use caution not to warp or distort the
reading, Ra2. If the two readings agree within 1.0 mm, average
test specimen. them as Ra. If the two readings differ by more than 1.0 mm. the
flatness of the test specimen is suspect, and it should be
13.2.2 Direct Method—In using this method, the thickness
discarded. Calculate the thickness of the test specimen as (see
of the test specimen shall be measured with a thickness gage or
similar apparatus. The specimen shall remain submerged at the Fig. 7):

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test temperature 6 0.2°C during the measurement. The thick-
ness shall be obtained at the midpoint of the test specimen to
the nearest 2.5 µm and entered into the software by the operator
where:
ta 5 Ro 2 Ra

ta = calculated thickness of test specimen,

(2)

for use in calculating the stiffness of the test specimen.

Ro = displacement transducer reading corresponding to top
13.2.3 Measurement with Displacement Transducer—The
of supports calculated as per Eq 1, and
thickness of the test specimen may be measured with the Ra = average of two displacement transducer readings with
displacement transducer as described below. The thickness displacement transducer in contact with top of the test
may be calculated by hand, using the displacement readings specimen.
displayed by the instrument or may be entered into the software
and calculated automatically. Calculate and report the thick- 13.3 Checking Contact Load and Test Load—Check the
ness to the nearest 50 µm for use in calculating the stiffness of adjustment of the contact load and test load prior to testing
the test specimen. each set of tests specimens in accordance with section 13.4.

FIG. 7 Typical Gage Block Used to Calibrate Displacement Transducer

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)

FIG. 8 Specimen Thickness Measured with Displacement Transducer

The 6.35-mm thick stainless steel beam (section 7.8.1) shall be 13.6 Manually apply a 35 6 10 mN contact load for no
used for checking the contact load and test load. longer than 10 s to the test specimen to ensure contact between
the test specimen and the loading head.
NOTE 17—Do not perform these checks with the thin steel beam or an
asphalt test specimen. NOTE 18—The 35 6 10 mN contact load is required to ensure
13.3.1 Place the thick steel beam in position on the beam continuous contact between the loading shaft, end supports, and the test
specimen. Failure to establish continuous contact within the required load

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supports. Using the test load regulator valve, gently increase range can give misleading results. Holding the contact for an excessive
the force on the beam to 980 6 50 mN. amount of time can affect the reported stiffness and m-values.
13.3.2 Switch from the test load to the contact load and 13.7 The contact load shall be applied in the following
adjust the force on the beam to 35 6 10 mN. Switch between sequence: 1) adjust the two load regulators as described in
the test load and contact load until consistent readings are 13.3.3; 2) lift the loading shaft manually, 3) place the test beam
obtained for the contact load and test load. Successive contact on the supports, and 4) lower the shaft manually to make
load readings that vary by no more than 10 mN shall be judged contact with the test beam. When contact is made the indicated
as consistent. load must be 35 6 10 mN. If the load is not 35 6 10 mN,
13.3.3 When switching between the test load and contact, remove the beam and return to 13.3.3. While applying the
observe the loading shaft and platform for visible vertical contact load, the load on the beam shall not exceed 45 mN and
movement. The loading shaft shall maintain contact with the no adjustment shall be made to the contact load once the beam
steel beam when switching between the contact load and test is placed on the supports. The seating load shall be applied (test
load and the contact load and test load shall be maintained at started) within 10 seconds after the shaft first contacts the
35 6 10 mN and 980 6 50 mN, respectively. beam.
13.3.4 Corrective Action—If the requirements of sections
13.3.1 – 13.3.3 are not met, the device may require calibration NOTE 19—A block of plastic foam placed underneath the loading
platform has been found convenient for elevating the shaft while the test
as per A1.2 or the loading shaft may be dirty or require beam is placed on its supports.
alignment (see section 11.2). If the requirements of sections
13.8 With the contact load applied to the test specimen,
13.3.1 – 13.3.3 cannot be met after calibration, cleaning, or
activate the automatic test system, which is programmed to
other corrective action, discontinue use of the device and
proceed as follows:
consult the equipment manufacturer.
13.8.1 Apply a 980 6 50 mN seating load for 1 6 0.1s.
13.4 Enter the specimen identification information, elapsed
NOTE 20—The seating load described in sections 13.8.1, 13.8.2, and
time the specimen is conditioned in bath at the test Fig. 2 is applied and removed automatically by the computer-controlled
temperature, and other information as appropriate into the loading system and is transparent to the operator.
computer that controls the test system (see Table A1.1). 13.8.2 Reduce the load to the 35 6 10 mN contact load and
13.5 After conditioning, place the test specimen on the test allow the test specimen to recover for 20 6 0.1 s. At the end
supports and gently position the back side of the test specimen of the seating load, the operator shall monitor the computer
against the alignment pins. Initiate the test as described in screen to verify that the load on the test specimen returns to 35
section 13.6. The bath temperature shall be maintained at the 6 10 mN. If it does not, the test shall be rejected.
test temperature 6 0.1°C during the test, otherwise, the test 13.8.3 Apply a 980 6 50 mN test load to the test specimen.
shall be rejected. The software shall record the test load at 0.5 s intervals from

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
0.5 s to 240 s and calculate the average of the recorded load R 2 5 @ 6A S y 16B S yx1 16C S yx2 2 S y 2 # / @ 6 S y2 2 S y2 # (4)
values. Between 0.5 and 5 s, the test load shall be within 6 50
where:
mN of the average test load and for the remaining times within
6 10 mN of the average test load. The actual load on the test Sy2 = [log S(8)]2 + [log S(15)]2 + ... + [log S(240)]2
specimen as measured by the load cell shall be used to 14.4 Calculate the estimated stiffness values at loading
calculate the stress in the test specimen. The loading pattern is times of 8.0, 15.0, 30.0, 60.0, 120.0 and 240.0 seconds using:
defined in Fig. 2. logS e ~ t ! 5 A1B @ log~ t ! # 1C @ log~ t ! # 2 (5)
13.8.4 Remove the test load and return to the 35 6 10 mN
contact load. where:
13.9 Remove the specimen from the supports and proceed A, B, and C = the regression coefficients determined in
to the next test. 14.3.1, and
t = loading time.
14. Reduction of Test Data 14.4.1 Estimated and measured values of the stiffness
14.1 The data acquisition software shall generate a plot of should agree within 2 %. Otherwise, the test results are suspect.
the measured load and the measured deflection of the test 14.5 Estimate the m-value for loading times of 8.0, 15.0,
specimen versus loading time at intervals of 0.5 s or less, 30.0, 60.0, 120.0 and 240.0 seconds using:
starting with application of the seating load. Deflection shall be
in units of mm and load in units of mN. A typical representa- ? ?
m ~ t ! 5 dlog@ S ~ t ! # /dlog~ t ! 5 @ B12Clog~ t ! # ? (6)
tion of the loading and deflection curves is shown in Fig. 2. where:
14.2 Calculate the measured stiffness of the test specimen at B and C = the regression coefficients determined in 14.3.1,
loading times of 8.0, 15.0, 30.0, 60.0, 120.0 and 240.0 s from and
the dimensions of the test specimen, the measured test load, t = loading time.
and the test specimen deflection using: 14.6 Calculate the average load during the test by averaging
S m ~ t ! 5 PL3 /4bh3 δ ~ t ! (3) the loads at 0.5 s and every 0.5 s thereafter up to 240 s.
where: 14.7 For the time period between 0.5 s and 5.0 s calculate
Sm(t) = flexural creep stiffness at time t, MPa, the maximum difference between the average load and the

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P = measured test load, mN, recorded loads at each 0.5 s interval.
L = span length, mm, 14.8 For the time period between 5.0 and 240 s, calculate
b = width of test specimen, mm, the maximum difference between the average load and the
h = depth of test specimen, mm, and recorded loads at each 0.5-s interval.
δ(t) = deflection of test specimen at time t.
14.2.1 Do not use values of load and deflection obtained 15. Report
before 8 s loading time to calculate the stiffness. Data from a 15.1 The report shall contain but not be limited to the
creep test obtained immediately after application of the test information listed below. A recommended test report format is
load may not be valid because of dynamic loading effects and given in Table A1.1.
the finite rise time of the applied load.
NOTE 21—Report information which follows details the data that shall
14.3 Calculation of S and m-Value: be generated by the BBR software. Actual communication of specific test
14.3.1 Fit the logarithm of the stiffness values versus the result information by the user of this method to second parties is at the
logarithm of the loading times using a second degree polyno- discretion of the user. Format of such communications is beyond the scope
mial by calculating: of this method.

A 5 @ S y ~ S x2 S x4 2 S x3 2 ! 1S yx1 ~ S x2 S x3 2 S x1 S x4 ! 1S yx2 ~ S x1 S x3 2 S x2 2 ! # /D 15.2 Test Specimen Information:

B 5 @ S y ~ S x2 S x3 2 S x1 S x4 ! 1S yx1 ~ 6S x4 2 S x2 2 ! 1S yx2 ~ S x1 S x2 2 6S x3 ! # /D 15.2.1 BBR File name,
C 5 @ S y ~ S x1 S x3 2 S x2 2 ! 1S yx1 ~ S xlS x2 2 6S x3 ! 1S yx2 ~ 6S x2 2 S x1 2 ! # /D 15.2.2 Test Specimen ID Number,
D 5 6 ~ S x2 S x4 2 S x3 2 ! 1S x1 ~ S x2 S x3 2 S x1 S x4 ! 1S x2 ~ S x1 S x3 2 S x2 2 ! 15.2.3 Test specimen width (default value is 12.70 mm),
where, for loading times of 8, 15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 s: 15.2.4 Test specimen thickness (mm to nearest 0.01 mm).
Default value is 6.35 mm. Enter values only if determined as
Sy = log Sm(8) + log Sm(15) + ... + log Sm(240), per Section 13.3.2 or 13.3.3.
Sx1 = log (8) + log (15) + ... + log (240),
Sx2 = [log (8)]2 + [log (15)]2 + ... + [log (240)]2, 15.2.5 Date of test (dd/mm/yy),
Sx3 = [log (8)]3 + [log (15)]3 + ... + [log (240)]3, 15.2.6 Operator’s name, and
Sx4 = [log (8)]4 + [log (15)]4 + ... + [log (240)]4, 15.2.7 Version of software used.
Syx1 = [log Sm(8)][log (8)] + [log Sm(15)][log(15)] + ... + 15.3 Calibration Information:
[log Sm(240)][log(240)], and 15.3.1 Date of last temperature calibration (mm/dd/yy),
Syx2 = [log Sm(8)][1og(8)]2 + [logSm(15)][log(15)]2 + ... + 15.3.2 Date of last load cell calibration (mm/dd/yy),
[log Sm(240)][log(240)]2. 15.3.3 Load cell calibration constants (mN/bit to three
14.3.2 Calculate the fraction of the variance in the stiffness significant figures),
explained by the quadratic model as: 15.3.4 Date last LVDT calibration (mm/dd/yy),

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
15.3.5 LVDT calibration constants (µm/bit to three signifi- 15.7 Data File—The software shall generate a data file in
cant figures), non-propriety format containing the load cell readings, LVDT
15.3.6 Date of last modulus check (mm/dd/yy), readings, and temperature readings in units of mN, mm, and
15.3.7 Measured modulus steel beam (GPa to three signifi- 0.1°C. The readings shall start at zero time and continue for
cant figures), 240 s at 0.5 s intervals. The file shall be in comma separated
15.3.8 Date of last compliance check (mm/dd/yy), and text format. It shall not be a part of the report but shall be
15.3.9 Compliance of loading system (µm/N to three sig- accessible at the option of the user.
nificant figures).
16. Precision and Bias
15.4 Test Conditions:
16.1 Precision—Criteria for judging the acceptability of
15.4.1 Time test load applied (h,m),
replicate measurements of flexural creep stiffness and m-value
15.4.2 Maximum temperature during test (°C to nearest
are given in Table 1. The criteria in Table 1 are based on
0.1°C),
several AMRL proficiency samples and several round robins
15.4.3 Minimum temperature during test (°C to nearest
involving more than 300 tests and different grades of binder.
0.1°C),
15.4.4 Maximum load recorded during test (mN to nearest 1 16.2 Single-Operator Precision (Repeatability)—Duplicate
mN), results obtained by the same operator using the same equip-
15.4.5 Minimum load recorded during test (mN to nearest 1 ment in the same laboratory shall not be considered suspect
mN), unless the difference in the duplicate results, expressed as a
15.4.6 Contact load at t = 0, just prior to application of test percent of their mean, exceeds the values given in Table 1 for
load (mN to nearest 1 mN), and single operator precision.
15.4.7 Test load after 0.5 s loading time (mN to nearest l 16.3 Multi-laboratory Precision (Reproducibility)—Two re-
mN). sults submitted by two different operators testing the same
15.5 Test Results (Report the following test results for time material in different laboratories shall not be considered
intervals of 8.0, 15.0, 30.0, 60.0, 120.0, and 240.0 s): suspect unless the difference in the results, expressed as a
15.5.1 Loading time in seconds (nearest 0.1 s), percent of their mean, exceeds the values given in Table 1 for
15.5.2 Test load (mN to nearest 1 mN), multi-laboratory precision.
15.5.3 Test specimen deflection (mm to nearest 1 µm), 16.4 Bias—Since there is no acceptable reference value the

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15.5.4 Measured Stiffness Modulus, Eq 3 (MPa to three bias for this test method cannot be determined.
significant figures),
15.5.5 Estimated Stiffness Modulus Eq 5 (MPa to three 17. Keywords
significant figures), and 17.1 bending beam rheometer; flexural creep compliance;
15.5.6 Percent difference between estimated and measured flexural creep stiffness
stiffness shall be calculated as based on Eq 3 and Eq 5:
TABLE 1 Estimated Repeatability and Reproducibility
$ ~ Estimated 2 Measured! 3 100 % % / $ Measured%
Acceptable Range of
Coefficient of
15.5.7 Estimated m-value, Eq 6 (to nearest 0.001). Condition
Variation (1 s %)A
Two Test Results
(d2s %)A
15.6 For each test, report the following summary data as Single-Operator
shown in Table A1.1. Precision
15.6.1 Regression coefficients and R2 as per Eq 4 and Creep Stiffness (MPa) 3.2 9.1
Slope 1.4 4.0
Section 14.3.1, Multi-laboratory
15.6.2 Average load obtained by averaging the load at 0.5 s Precision
and every 0.5 s thereafter up to 240.0 s, Creep Stiffness (MPa) 9.5 26.9
Slope 4.6 13.0
15.6.3 Maximum deviation of load from average load dur- A
These values represent the 1s % and d2s % limits described in Practice C670.
ing interval from 0.5 to 5.0 s (mN), These values are based on data from the AASHTO Materials Reference Labora-
15.6.4 Maximum deviation of load from average load dur- tory Proficiency Testing Program and other regional round robin testing programs
ing interval from 5.0 to 240.0 s (mN), conducted with metal (aluminum) molds. Round robin testing conducted with metal
and silicone rubber molds has shown that results obtained with the two different
15.6.5 Deflection at zero time (mm), and types of molds are not statistically different.
15.6.6 Deflection at 0.5 s (mm).

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. CALIBRATION

Calibrate the components of the BBR as required by section A1.2 Calibration of Load Cell—Calibrate the load cell in
11.2 in accordance with the following instructions: accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions using a mini-
mum of four masses evenly distributed over the range of the
A1.1 Calibration of Displacement Transducer—Calibrate load cell. The software provided by the manufacturer shall
the displacement transducer using a stepped gage block of convert the measurements to a calibration constant in terms of
known dimensions similar to the one shown in Fig. 7. With the mN/bit to three significant figures and shall automatically enter
loading frame mounted in the bath at the test temperature, the new constant into the software. The calibration constants
remove all beams from the supports and place the stepped gage should be repeatable from one calibration to another, otherwise
block on a reference platform underneath the loading shaft the operation of the system may be suspect. Repeat the process
according to the instructions supplied by the instrument manu- for each test temperature.
facturer. Apply a 100-g mass on the loading shaft and follow
the manufacturer’s instructions to obtain a displacement trans- A1.3 Calibration of Internal Thermometric Device—
ducer reading on each step. The software provided by the Calibrate the internal thermometric device by using a cali-
manufacturer shall convert the measurements to a calibration brated thermometric device of suitable range meeting the
constant in terms of µm/bit to three significant figures and shall requirements of Section 7.9. Immerse the probe of the cali-
automatically enter the new constant into the software. The brated thermoelectric device (or bulb of the liquid-in-glass
calibration constant should be repeatable from one calibration thermometer) in the liquid bath close to the probe of the DSR.
to another, otherwise the operation of the system may be Compare the temperature displayed by the calibrated thermo-
suspect. metric device to the temperature displayed by the BBR. If the

TABLE A1.1 Typical Test Report

Test Conditions
File Name
Test Specimen ID No.A
Project ID No.A
Operator’s NameA
Date of test (mm/dd/yy)
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AXX5M301#
AXB5PAV
XY DOT 45
Joe Smith
03/22/97
Max temp during test (°C)
Min. temp. during test (°C)
Maximum Load during test (mN)
Minimum Load during test (mN)
Date last temperature calib. (mm/dd/yy)
989
994
03/22/97
Specimen width (mm)B 12.70 Load calib. Constant (mN/bit) 2.40
Specimen thick (mm)B 6.35 Date last load cell calib. (mm/dd/yy) 03/22/97
Elapsed time in bath (m)A 63 LVDT calib. Constant (µm/bit) 2.54
Time test load applied (h,m) 14:37 Date last LVDT calib. (mm/dd/yy) 03/22/97
Manf./Model of BBR BB Tech-01 Modulus steel beam (GPa) 200
Device IDA Unit No. 2 Compliance of loading system (µm/N) 2.57
Software Version V 6.7.1 Date of last compliance check (mm/dd/ 03/22/97
yy)
Two lines of 74 characters per line for software-generated or operator-entered warnings and comments.
A
Entered by technician.
B
Entered at option of technician. Remaining data entered automatically by software.

Test Results
t Pt d Measured Estimated Stiffness
Time Test Load Deflection Stiffness Stiffness Difference m-value
(s) (mN) (mm) (MPa) (MPa) (%)
8.0 988 0.345 358 358 0.12 0.339
16.0 987 0.401 287 287 –0.23 0.362
30.0 987 0.482 222 222 0.10 0.387
60.0 988 0.597 168 168 –0.03 0.411
120.0 987 0.758 125 125 0.11 0.436
240.0 989 0.992 91.7 91.8 0.07 0.461

Calculated Parameters
Regression Coefficients:(A, B, C, R2) 2.18 –0.195 0.00223 0.999981
Contact load when t = 0.0 s (mN) 31
Average load from 0.5 to 240 s 998 Test load when t = 0.5 s (mN) 1021
Max. load deviation, 0.5 to 5.0 s (mN) 42 Max. load deviation, 5 to 240.0 s (mN) 2
Deflection at zero time, (mm) 0.000 Deflection at 0.5 s (mm) 1.237

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
temperature displayed by the BBR does not agree with the shall measure the position of the displacement transducer at
calibrated thermometric device within 60.1°C, follow the each load. The compliance shall be calculated as the measured
manufacturer’s instructions for correcting the displayed BBR deflection per unit load. The software provided by the manu-
temperature to agree with the thermometric device tempera- facturer shall convert the measurements to a compliance in
ture. terms of µm/N to three significant figures and shall automati-
cally enter the compliance into the software. The compliance
A1.4 Determine the System Compliance—Determine the measurement may be performed as part of the load cell
system compliance in accordance with the manufacturer’s calibration or as a separate operation. The compliance mea-
instructions using a minimum of four masses evenly distributed surement shall be performed each time the load cell is
over the range of the load cell. The data acquisition software calibrated.

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. BEAM THEORY AND DATA INTERPRETATION

X1.1 Deflection of an Elastic Beam—Using elementary where:

bending theory, the mid-span deflection of an elastic prismatic σ = maximum bending stress in beam, MPa,
beam of constant cross-section loaded in three-point loading P = constant load, N,
can be obtained by applying Eq X1.1 and X1.2 as follows: L = span length, mm,
b = width of beam, mm, and
δ 5 PL3 /48EI (X1.1)
h = depth of beam, mm.
where:
δ = deflection of beam at midspan, mm, X1.4 Maximum Bending Strain—The maximum bending
P = load applied, N, strain in the beam occurs at the top and bottom of the beam at

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L = span length, mm, its midspan.
E = modulus of elasticity, MPa, and Therefore:
I = moment of inertia, mm4.
ε 5 6δh/L 2 mm/mm (X1.5)
and,
where:
I 5 bh3 /12 (X1.2)
ε = maximum bending strain in beam, mm/mm,
where: δ = deflection of beam, mm,
b = width of beam, mm, and h = thickness of beam, mm, and
h = thickness of beam, mm. L = span length, mm.
NOTE X1.1—The test specimen has a span to depth ratio of 16 to 1, and X1.5 Linear Viscoelastic Stiffness Modulus—According to
the contribution of shear to deflection of the beam can be neglected.
the elastic-viscoelastic correspondence principle, it can be
X1.2 Elastic Flexural Modulus—According to elastic assumed that if a linear viscoelastic beam is subjected to a
theory, calculate the flexural modulus of a prismatic beam of constant load applied at t = 0 and held constant, the stress
constant cross-section loaded at its midspan. distribution in the beam is the same as that in a linear elastic
beam under the same load. Further, the strains and displace-
Therefore: ments depend on time and are derived from those of the elastic
E 5 PL3 /4bh3 δ (X1.3) case by replacing E with 1/D(t). Since 1/D(t) is numerically
equivalent to S(t), rearranging the elastic solution results in the
where: following relationship for the stiffness:
E = flexural creep stiffness, MPa,
P = load, N, S ~ t ! 5 PL3 /4bh3 δ ~ t ! (X1.6)
L = span length, mm, where:
b = width of beam, mm, S(t) = time-dependent flexural creep stiffness, MPa,
h = depth of beam, mm, and P = constant load, N,
δ = deflection of beam, mm. L = span length, mm,
b = width of beam, mm,
X1.3 Maximum Bending Stress—The maximum bending h = depth of beam, mm,
stress occurs at the top and bottom of the beam at its midspan. δ(t) = deflection of beam, at time t, mm, and
Therefore: δ(t) and S(t) indicate that the deflection and stiffness,
σ 5 3PL/2bh2 (X1.4) respectively are functions of time.

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 D6648 − 08 (2016)
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