Kinexus DSR Series

Redefining Rheometer Capabilities for

Asphalt Binder and Bitumen Testing

Analyzing & Testing

Characterization and Classification to Asphalt Industry
Asphalt Binder and Bitumen

2
Standards

Asphalt, or bitumen, is a petroleum product used in the road (pavement), roofing and con-
struction industries. A mixture of aromatic hydrocarbons (varying with geographical source), this
black viscoelastic material is considered to be a complex colloidal system.

Asphalt is used as a binder with aggregates in road (pavement) construction and as such deter-
mines performance and lifetime. Additives such as polymers, crumb rubber, oils, waxes,
phosphates and pH adjusters are used to enhance mechanical properties in modified asphalt
binders. Asphalt emulsions are also used as water-proofing and re-surfacing materials.

Rheological characterization by Dynamic Shear Rheometers (DSR) is the standard method of

classifying asphalt binders for behavior over time and loading conditions, and in different
climates.

While some still use viscosity (vis) and penetration (pen) methods for grading, the use of
DSR grading methods provides a much broader range of information about the asphalt
performance properties and its suitability for desired applications. This is especially the
case with engineered binders; binders designed with elastomeric properties to reduce
rutting, aging, thermal and fatigue cracking.

Rheological Testing with the Kinexus DSR Series

∙ Grade testing to industry standards such as AASHTO, ASTM

and EN specifications

∙ Full characterization of rheological behavior with Master Curves

∙ Formulation development and quality control metrics

∙ Determination of mixing and compaction temperatures

∙ Blend testing of warm mix, crumb rubber and Recycled

Asphalt Paving (RAP)

∙ Solids testing for fatigue or accumulated strain

∙ Emulsion stability and viscosity profiling

∙ Benchmarking and comparison of competitive products

∙ Penetration, pull off and tack testing

∙ Tribology-friction testing

∙ Additive optimization and product interactions

3
Kinexus DSR Series
Redefining Rheometer
Capabilities for Asphalt
Binder and Bitumen Testing

The Kinexus DSR Series is the

next generation rotational
rheometer platform for asphalt
testing that’s been developed
from extensive market knowledge
and feedback, integrating
innovative instrument design
with a revolutionary software
interface, to deliver an intel-
ligent solution that will exceed
your rheological expectations.

A modular rheometer with

true plug and play functionality
for all measuring systems and
environmental control units –
the Kinexus DSR Series enables
pioneering Standard Operating
Procedure (SOP) based testing
with a built-in comprehensive
library of standard test protocols
for the asphalt industry.

4
Environmental cartridges are easily changed or removed for service

∙ All modes of operation – stress, shear rate

and direct strain controlled oscillation
∙
Wide variety of measurement geometries optimized
for rheological characterization of liquid binders to
solid asphalt cores

∙ Exceptional vertical travel and gapping capabilities

with ultra-responsive and highly sensitive Normal
∙
Complete sample history recorded from loading
Force for dedicated pull-off, tack and penetration to unloading, ensuring reliable and reproducible
testing measurements

∙ Unique rSpace software interface that offers total

flexibility of test set-up, from sequence-driven
∙
Unique plug and play cartridge system for all
environmental controllers – all mechanical, power,
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)-type communication and fluid connections made in
functionality to fully customizable test design one simple action. Capable of fully automated
calibration

∙ Fully integrated materials database enables user

friendly data management that can be tailored
∙
Geometry database in conjunction with RFID plate
to any organization. Easily tie results by products, recognition ensures only the correct, in tolerance,
projects, customers, vendors, tanks, or locations. plates are used for testing
Maintain testing logs and specification limits for
acceptance
∙
Fully automated Statistical Quality Control (SQC)
charting with pass/fail analysis tied to any sample

Key Benefits of Kinexus Rheometer

5
 ∙ High axial and radial stiffness
for increased robustness and
∙
minimize compliance and inertia
Quick-connect push-fit design
reduced compliance and integrated RFID tag
(auto-detection) allows for

10 Features High precision

3 reduced time to measurement
while ensuring the correct
rotational system measuring system and

of the
Accurate measurement of calibration constants are
rotor position and speed always used

∙ Optical encoder with nanometer

Axial force sensors

Kinexus
6
resolution for measuring
minuscule radial displacements Provides the measurement

∙
and speeds and control of normal force

DSR Series
Sample response optimized by
locating the sensor as close to ∙ Novel strain gauge with fast
transient response which is

∙
the measurement as possible
independent of air bearing rotor
High speed Digital Signal

∙
position and rotor speed
Processor (DSP) provides rapid
Operational in all modes of
and accurate direct strain and
instrument operation for both
speed control

∙
measurements and control
Capable of measuring between
Precision chuck
4 0.001 N and 50 N for consistent
sample loading and precision
Inductive motor
1 mechanism control of axial testing
technology Connects and aligns the

Precision control of


measuring system with the
motor and bearing assembly
7 Stage drive control

∙
instrument torque
Ultra low inertia, Electronically ∙ Quick-connect push-fit
mechanism for easy insertion
Controlled vertical profiles


for sample loading and
axial testing
Commutated (EC), drag cup
∙
and removal of measuring
motor allows rapid change systems while maintaining Enables full range of vertical
of torque and speed, as well

∙
micrometer alignment profiles including linear,
as access to higher oscillation Auto recognition – Radio exponential and normal force
frequencies without the need Frequency Identification (RFID) over a working range of 230 mm

∙
of excessive corrections reader automatically identifies (0.1 μm resolution) and speed
Wide continuous torque range the measuring systems, range of 0.1 μm/s to 35 mm/s
facilitates measurement of calibration constants and opera- for controlled sample loading or
low-viscosity liquids through tional settings, and ensures zero dedicated axial testing
to stiff solids without changing gapping prior to measurement
test conditions or measuring
8 Integrated electronics
∙
geometries
Intelligent motor cooling 5 Upper measuring system Houses all electronics for
regulates internal operating Interfaces with the sample to controlling rheometer
temperature according to transfer torque or motion functionality
torque and power demands

∙
from the motor assembly
Wide range of measuring
∙ All micro electronics are located
as close to the measurement
2 Precision air bearing systems available, including as possible, improving
Provides frictionless support plates, cones, cylinders and measurement quality and

∙
between moving parts vanes with different sizes, reliability

∙ Machined from sintered, porous

carbon to provide uniform air ∙
materials and surface finishes
Precision engineered for
accurate calculation of
Incorporates all control and
measurement functions
including high speed Digital
distribution with negligible rheological parameters and Signal Processor (DSP), which
directional bias enabling designed with high shaft provides the intelligence to the
operational and measurable stiffness and low mass to instrument
torques below 1 nNm

6
 9 Environmental control
cartridge/lower
measuring system
Provides fast lower geometry
interchange, plus temper-
ature and environmental
control

∙ Unique plug and play cartridge

system with auto-recognition
All mechanical, power, commu-
nication and fluid connections

∙ ∙
made in one simple action 1
Cartridge options include:
Asphalt Peltier Plate, active
hood design
∙ Universal cylinder; for
cub-bob & torsion
2

∙ High temperature; for 

3 6

∙
polymer melts & curing
4
Geometries available in a wide
range of sizes, materials and
8

∙
surface finishes 5 10
Lower measuring system can be
secured and removed easily using
a simple slide lock mechanism,
while maintaining micrometer

∙
alignment
Employs Peltier elements for
heating/cooling of upper
and lower plates working in
9
conjunction with an intelligent
heat exchanger to improve

∙
efficiency
Optimally positioned temper- 7
ature sensors (PT100s) ensure
fast & accurate sample temper-
ature reporting

10 Control panel
Allows rheometer functions
to be controlled directly
from the instrument

∙ Control panel functionality

directly linked to all user instruc-

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK

tions in test sequences so Yes
and No responses to software
prompts can be made without

∙
keyboard interaction

TECHNOLOGY AT THE
Warning lights flag-up any
rheometer faults, software
communication errors or low

∙
pressure in the air bearing

HEART OF KINEXUS DSR

Robust design for glove
operation and solvent safe
for easy clean up

7
MEASURING SYSTEMS AND ACCESSORIES

Active hood cartridge Peltier cylinder cartridge High Temperature Cartridge

(-40°C to +200°C) environmental (-30°C to +200°C) (HTC) (ambient to 350°C)
controller with minimized environmental controller high temperature
thermal gradients for plate for concentric cylinder-type environmental controller for
measuring systems measuring systems cone-plate and parallel plate
measuring systems

∙ Applicable to the measurement

of highly thermally-sensitive
∙ Twin Peltier design for rapid
temperature changes, sample
∙ Extremely stable temperature
control using a high-accuracy
samples, and for temperature- equilibration and minimal PT100 sensor in close proximity
critical testing thermal gradients to sample

∙ Proprietary design incorporates

state-of-the-art heating
∙  arious cup and bob sizes
V
available – C14 (DIN), C25 (DIN)
∙ Rapid temperature changes
of up to 20°C per minute
technology with Peltier
elements to dynamically control
∙
and wide diameter C34
Interchangeable lower cups
∙ Temperature resolution to
better than 0.0005°C

∙
radial and vertical thermal
with removable base for ease
gradients within the sample Air cooling for rapidly attaining
of cleaning

∙
quickly and accurately ambient temperatures

∙ Conforms to AASHTO, ASTM &

Plate insert provides a universal
Peltier option ∙ Easy and accurate integrated

∙
EN standards temperature calibration

∙ Temperature resolution to
better than 0.0005 ºC
Accommodates solid (torsion)
fixtures for Dynamic Mechanical ∙ All plate and cone diameters
are available

∙ ∙
Analysis (DMA) testing of solid
PT100 sensor located within asphalt cores Optional disposable plate
1 mm of asphalt sample for inserts available for curing
accurate reporting  applications

∙ Low thermal mass components

for rapid response

∙ Inlet for inert gas feed into

sample chamber enables live
monitoring of aging

∙ Easy and accurate integrated

temperature calibration

8
KINEXUS DSR ACCESSORY SPECIFICATIONS

Measuring systems Solid fixtures Crumb rubber kit

∙ ∙
(-20°C to 200°C dry and
Quick-connect geometries fluid immersed (wet)) torsion/ Hard anodized aluminum
with intelligent RFID dma system including sample shallow cup insert for Kinexus
auto-recognition linked to mounting and alignment kit cylinder cartridge, designed to

∙
database measure crumb rubber asphalt

∙ Lock-down tests to specific

geometry to minimize operator
Utilizes the multifunctional
design of the cylinder cartridge
to allow torsional testing of a ∙
mixtures
Low volume, wide gap
error concentric cylinder enables

∙
self-supporting rectangular or
samples with larger particles to
Standard upper plates of cylindrical solid sample (e.g.,
be measured for more accurate
4 mm, 8 mm, and 25 mm to final product)

∙
testing

∙
conform to AASHTO, ASTM &
Understand how a sample
EN standards, with disposable Optimized thermal properties
changes by temperature or time
options also available and mechanical alignment

∙ ∙
in a dry vs. wet environment
Coaxial cylinders (cup and bob)
to DIN standard with double
gap and vane tool options also
∙ Includes a torsional alignment
jig and disposable cylindrical
Two piece, removable base
design, and includes thermal
cover and insulation kit
sample end caps

∙
available

∙ Geometry adapter allows use

of custom geometries (e.g.,
Mounted samples can be
investigated as a function of
frequency, strain, stress, time
penetration probes)

∙
and temperature to investigate
Automatic temperature solid properties

∙
calibration device available
Tribology kit for friction testing,
∙ Easy temperature calibration
with sensor mounting provided
lubricity and warm mix analysis

∙ Torsion kit for solids testing

9
 Unprecedented Dual-Action Capabilities

A Revolution in
Shear and Vertical
(Axial) Test Control

The unique combination of

Kinexus DSR hardware technology
and rSpace software gives the user
the ability to configure three
critical rheometer functions
independently:

∙  otational (shear) control –

R
torque, speed and position

∙ Vertical (axial) control –

gap and Normal Force

∙ Temperature control

Offering the ultimate in rheo-

logical test flexibility for both
industry and academia,
Kinexus enables:

∙ All rotational shear-based

testing

∙ Advanced vertical (axial) testing

including squeeze flow and
tack testing

∙ A combination of shear and

vertical actions for revolutionary
process-relevant measurements

10
 Significant design effort has been directed at the
vertical, or axial capabilities of the Kinexus DSR
platform – an area that typically sees compromises
on most rheometer systems.

Kinexus DSR combines high speed and ultra-fine resolution gap

control with high sensitivity and ultra-responsive Normal Force
control for truly innovative sample loading and measurement
capabilities – from sensitive structures to rapid curing systems.

Allied to cradle to grave data collection providing a complete sample

history from loading to unloading, every aspect of rheological
testing can be optimized and verified for total consistency.

80

70
-1.5
60

50
-1.0

g(mm)
40
F(N)

30
-0.5
20

0.0 10

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
t(s)
Gap and normal force vs. experiment time

11
 rSpace Software
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Driven
Tests for Robust Rheological Measurements

The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approach to material testing has been
a cornerstone to all our technologies, and is now available for the first time on
a rheometer system.

rSpace can be used for simple QC operation

or for advanced rheological testing

∙ Locked down tests including geometry and parameter set-up using standard
user access control

∙ Continuous feedback and user guidance at all times

∙ Ensure best rheological practice

∙ Add specific test controls relevant to your samples

∙ Produce standard test methods for your samples

∙ Available for use company-wide

∙ Consistent operator-independent testing as standard

∙ Time-Temperature Superposition for master curve generation

∙ Automatically reports Pass or Fail based on the appropriate test and test criteria

∙ Report designer with auto print/PDF generation

108 90

107 80

70
106
60
105
G‘(Pa), G“(Pa)

50
104
40
103
30
102
20

101 10

100
1
10-4 10-3 10-2 10-1 100 101 102 103 104 105
f(rad/s)

Elastic modulus, viscous modulus and phase angle vs. frequency Clear operator feedback of relevant
Automated advanced analysis available information and visual properties

12
rSpace – powerful, user friendly, What rheological test progression
flexible and easily tailored would you like to run?
rSpace software is driven by sequences – ∙ You think it – Kinexus can run it
which consist of fundamental rheological
actions (or test building blocks) that can
be linked together with other test actions,
∙  edicated and advanced tests
D
exactly to your needs
such as user feedback and choices,
calculate values, loops and triggers,
in order to build intelligent tests.
Program sequence in Kinexus

∙ Set a sequence to run only, and a user

∙ Drag and drop actions and Import
subsequence functionality
operates under SOP-type conditions
with defined test instructions and ∙ Include user choices, calculate values,
loops, triggers
feedback
∙ Include specific user inputs and

∙ Set user access to edit sequence

functionality, and researchers have the ∙
instructions as required
Include specific analysis, acceptance
full design capabilities at their fingertips criteria and what next decision making

13
 Kinexus DSR

DSR+ DSR DSR-E DSR-III

Each system designed to meet the demanding needs of research, product

Rheometer
development, comparative benchmarking, quality control and assurance
Platform
required by the global asphalt / bitumen industry
Electronically Commutated (EC), drag cup motor control providing
Motor control absolute direct: shear strain, shear rate, shear stress for operation
in steady, dynamic, and transient loading modes
Torque range – viscometry 5 nNm – 10 nNm – 20 nNm – 100 nNm –
(rate and stress control) 225 mNm 200 mNm 200 mNm 150 mNm
Torque range – oscillation 1 nNm – 5 nNm – 10 nNm – 100 nNm –
(strain and stress control) 225 mNm 200 mNm 200 mNm 150 mNm
Torque resolution 0.1 nNm 0.1 nNm 0.1 nNm 0.1 nNm
Position resolution <10 nrad <10 nrad <10 nrad <10 nrad
1 nrads-1 to 10 nrads-1 to 10 nrads-1 to 10 nrads-1 to
Angular velocity range
500 rads-1 325 rads-1 325 rads-1 200 rads-1
Step change in strain <10 ms <10 ms <10 ms <10 ms
6.28 μrads-1 to 6.28 μrads-1 to 6.28 μrads-1 to 6.28 μrads-1 to
Frequency range 942 rads-1 628 rads-1 628 rads-1 628 rads-1
(1 μHz to 150 Hz) (1 μHz to 100 Hz) (1 μHz to 100 Hz) (1 μHz to 100 Hz)
Motor inertia 12 μN.m.s2 12 μN.m.s2 13 μN.m.s2 13 μN.m.s2
Normal force range 0.001 N – 50 N 0.001 N – 50 N 0.01 N – 50 N 0.01 N – 20 N
Normal force resolution 0.5 mN 0.5 mN 0.5 mN 0.5 mN
Normal force
<10 ms <10 ms <10 ms <10 ms
response time
0.1 μms-1 to 0.1 μms-1 to 0.1 μms-1 to 0.1 μms-1 to
Vertical lift speed
35 mms-1 35 mms-1 35 mms-1 20 mms-1
Vertical lift range
230 mm 230 mm 230 mm 230 mm
(measurable)
Gap resolution (over
0.1 μm 0.1 μm 0.1 μm 0.1 μm
full vertical lift range)
Fully configurable
By speed and by Normal Force
vertical profiles
Raw instrument variables 5 kHz constant streaming data
Complete sample history Data available from loading to unloading as standard
Instrument interface USB2 – plug and play
Dimensions D x W x H (weight): 485 mm x 490 mm x 680 mm (47 kg)

14
 Kinexus DSR

DSR+ DSR DSR-E DSR-III

Sequence-driven user interface enabling Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)-

rSpace software
type test functionality and fully customizable test designs
Comprehensive Comprehensive Complete Standard
rSpace package
Rheology Rheology Asphalt Asphalt

User access control ü ü ü ü

General rheology ü ü - -

rSolution applications
ü ü - -
database

Rheology toolkit package ü ü ü -

Asphalt rheology ü ü ü ü

Rheology analysis package ü ü ü ü

Sequence design
functionality ü ü ü ü

Interactive materials
database ü ü ü ü

NOTE: Specifications have been obtained under conditions as stated in the Installation and Site Requirements for Kinexus rheometers

Technical Specifications
A range of asphalt DSR rheometer designed to meet and exceed your application
requirements. If you are unsure as to specifying an appropriate rheometer model
for your application or region, contact us for advice and/or a demonstration.

15
 Kinexus DSR – Accessories

Environmental
DSR+ DSR DSR-E DSR-III
Controllers*

Asphalt Active
Hood Oven
Standard temperature -5°C to 200°C -5°C to 150°C -5°C to 150°C -5°C to 150°C
range (optional) (-40°C to 200°C) (-40°C to 200°C) (-40°C to 200°C) (-40°C to 200°C)
Heating rate (controlled) 30°C/minute 30°C/minute 30°C/minute 30°C/minute
Resolution < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C
Stability ± 0.003°C ± 0.01°C ± 0.01°C ± 0.01°C
Gradients < 0.1°C < 0.1°C < 0.1°C < 0.1°C
Universal
Cylinder Peltier
Standard temperature -5°C to 200°C -5°C to 200°C -5°C to 150°C 5°C to 150°C
range (optional) (-30°C to 200°C) (-30°C to 200°C) (-30°C to 200°C) (-30°C to 200°C)
Heating rate (controlled) 15°C/minute 15°C/minute 15°C/minute 15°C/minute
Resolution < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C
Stability ± 0.003°C ± 0.003°C ± 0.003°C ± 0.003°C
High Temperature
(HTC)
Standard temperature
RT to 350°C RT to 350°C RT to 350°C RT to 350°C
range
Heating rate (controlled) 50°C/minute 50°C/minute 50°C/minute 50°C/minute
Resolution < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C < 0.0005°C
Stability ± 0.003°C ± 0.003°C ± 0.003°C ± 0.003°C

16
 Kinexus DSR – Accessories

Options
DSR+ DSR DSR-E DSR-III
Available*
Quick-connect Plug and play; auto-recognition
upper geometries and configuration in software ü ü ü ü

Disposable Upper and lower disposable plate

plates option options for curing materials ü ü ü ü

C14/25 – CRM C25 cup & C14 bob

for use with cylinder cartridge.
Crumb rubber kit ü ü ü ü
Other cups, bobs and vanes
available
Solid fixtures for use with cylinder
Solids Fixtures kit cartridge for testing rectangular ü ü ü -
or cylindrical solids (Asphalt cores)
Standard diameters range from
Plates and Cones 4 mm to 60 mm Standard angles
diameter & angle are 0.5°, 1°, 2° and 4° – others ü ü ü ü
on request
Asphalt Plate Asphalt 4 mm, 8 mm and
diameter 25 mm plates ü ü ü ü

Ball Tribology kit based

Tribology – friction ü ü ü -
on ISO7148 design
Fully automated and integrated
Temperature NIST traceable device for easy
Calibration Kit verification and calibration of ü ü ü ü
system temperature

* Additional Environmental controllers, accessories and geometries available upon request

NOTE: Specifications have been obtained under conditions as stated in the Installation and Site Requirements for Kinexus rheometers

17
18
Expertise in Service
Our Expertise – Service Our Expertise – Applications Laboratories

All over the world, the name NETZSCH stands for The NETZSCH Thermal Analysis applications laborato-
comprehensive support and reliable service, before ries are a proficient partner for nearly any Thermal Anal-
and after sale. Our qualified personnel from the ysis issue. Our involvement in your projects begins with
technical service and application departments are proper sample preparation and continues through
always available for consultation. meticulous examination and interpretation of the
measurement results. Our diverse methods and over 30
In special training programs tailored for you and your different state-of-the-art measuring stations will
employees, you will learn to tap the full potential of provide ready-made solutions for all your thermal
your instrument. needs.

To maintain and protect your investment, you will be Within the realm of thermal analysis and the measure-
accompanied by our experienced service team over ment of thermo-physical properties, we offer you a
the entire life span of your instrument. comprehensive line of the most diverse analysis tech-
niques for materials characterization.

Measurements can be carried out on samples of the

most varied of geometries and configurations. You will
receive high-precision measurement results and valu-
able interpretations from us in the shortest possible
time. This will enable you to precisely characterize new
materials and components before actual deployment,
minimize risks of failure, and gain decisive advantages
over your competitors.

TECHNICAL SERVICE TRAINING LABORATORY

Maintenance Software Exchange IQ/OQ Training Application Service

and Repair Updates Service Documents and Contract Testing

Calibration Spare Part Moving Comprehensive

Service Assistance Service Instrument and
Method Training

19
 The NETZSCH Group is an owner-managed, international technology
company with headquarters in Germany. The Business Units Analyzing &
Testing, Grinding & Dispersing and Pumps & Systems represent customized
solutions at the highest level. More than 3,700 employees in 36 countries and
a worldwide sales and service network ensure customer proximity and
competent service.

Our performance standards are high. We promise our customers Proven

Excellence – exceptional performance in everything we do, proven time and
again since 1873.

When it comes to Thermal Analysis, Calorimetry (adiabatic & reaction), the

determination of Thermophysical Properties, Rheology and Fire Testing,
NETZSCH has it covered. Our 50 years of applications experience, broad
state-of-the-art product line and comprehensive service offerings ensure
that our solutions will not only meet your every requirement but also exceed
your every expectation.

NGB · Kinexus DSR Series · EN · 0320 · NWS · Technical specifications are subject to change.

NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH
Wittelsbacherstraße 42
95100 Selb
Germany
Tel.: +49 9287 881-0
Fax: +49 9287 881 505
[email protected]