INTRODUCTION
The SP-55 Quartermaster Asphalt Sample Divider is a fixed, four-
chute splitter with a gate-release hopper designed to reduce
bulk samples of hot-mix asphalt and aggregate materials to four
representative specimens. Hot-mix asphalt of insufficient tem-
perature to be free-flowing or aggregate materials larger than
2in may cause bridging in the chutes, causing blockages and un-
even sample distributions. We suggest following the guidelines
in ASTM and AASHTO procedures to achieve accurate, represen-
tative samples.
ASSEMBLY
1. Place the base unit of the Quartermaster Asphalt Sample Di-
vider with four adjustable threaded feet on a smooth, rigid
surface.
2. Place a level across the corners of the base unit, and adjust the
threaded feet so the base is stable and level.
3. Place the hopper section of the Sample Divider on top of the
base. Verify the assembled unit remains stable and level.
4. Slide the four included MA-950 Galvanized Pails under the
base, so that each makes contact with two adjacent legs and
is positioned beneath the chutes. The handles of the buckets
should be facing away from the center of the unit for ease
of handling after splitting. Use of the heavy cotton SPA-22
Bucket Liner Bags simplifies clean-up and sample handling.
5. Close the hopper by swinging both hopper doors upward
and engaging the release handle under the hopper door
catch mechanism.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Check that the hopper doors are closed and secured with
the handle/door catch mechanism.
2. Obtain the aggregate or hot-mix asphalt bulk sample to be
quartered. (See WARNING!)
3. Place the bulk sample into the hopper, distributing evenly as
you pour. Level the sample from side-to-side and from front
to back with a small scoop or trowel.
4. Make sure all four buckets are positioned properly below
each corner of the Sample Divider base.
5. Turn the Release Handle in a smooth, quick motion, allowing
the hopper gates to open simultaneously.
6. Remove the four specimens for testing.
ASTM PENDING; AASHTO R 47
(Continued on back.)
SP-55 shown with SPA-22 Bucket Liner Sample Bags
Quartermaster Asphalt Sample Divider
SP-55
OPERATING MANUAL
Rev: 01/2019
PHONE: 800-444-1508
P.O. Box 200, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035-0200
740-548-7298
E-mail: [email protected] Product Web Page:
FAX: 800-255-5314
740-548-5314
