Softening Point Test:

The softening point test is conducted by Ring and Ball method in the laboratory as described below:

The test sample of the given bituminous material is put in the brass ring which is then suspended in liquid like water or glycerin at a given temperature as shown in above figure. After this a steel ball is placed upon the bitumen and the liquid is heated at a rate of 5$^\circ$C per minute. The temperature at which the softened bitumen touches the metal base, placed at a specified distance below the ring is recorded as the softening point of the bitumen. The softening point so recorded is compared with the specified values and thus the suitability of the bitumen under test is decided for bituminous pavement construction.