Advance Testing has recently been selected as the North American distributor, as well as the first proud owner, of the recently finalized Gradex 3000. The Gradex 3000 is an automated sieve analyzer used to perform gradation analysis efficiently and accurately. We are currently using the first unit in our laboratory, with the second currently being manufactured.

This machine can process up to six samples consecutively without technician intervention. After loading the samples, the Gradex dumps each sieve fraction, brushes the sieve, weighs the material, then calculated and records percentage passing, retained and cumulative totals. Technicians and engineers are free to perform other tasks while analysis is conducted. A technician's time can be as much as tripled by adding the Gradex 3000. When the unit has finished calculating the results, it can send a customized report to an Excel spreadsheet, an database accessable from the Internet and/or a printer.

Not only does the Gradex save valuable time, but also eliminates costly errors. Automation removes the chance for operators error; each test is weighed the same, brushed the same, and each sample is handled the exact same way. The unit uses standard 12" sieves, and all of the units parts are easily replaceable using standard items found at a local hardware store. All calculations are run on a Windows-based computer connectd to the Gradex. The system uses custom software that can be configured to fit your company's needs.

Additionally, this machine has been thoroughly tested and is fully supported by the staff at Rotex. Rotex's global headquarters are located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The company was started in 1844 and began designing sifters and screeners starting in 1910. Rotex now sells equipment across the entire globe. Rotex has offices in the United Kingdom as well as Belgium.

A study was conducted in 1999 by M. Shane Buchanan and E. Ray Brown – both from the National Center for Asphalt Technology. In this study, the two researchers were looking to discover a device that improved upon the accuracy and efficiency of the traditional gradation. They set upon comparing the Gradex 2000 (the major difference between Gradex 3000 is 8" sieve diameter in 2000 as opposed to 12" diameter in 3000) to utilizing traditional sieve shakers with manual preparation, testing, and calculations. The study concluded that the accuracy of the Gradex was very comparable to that of the traditional sieve analysis. Efficiency was greatly improved upon.

Advance Testing is excited to be a part of this up and coming piece of machinery. We welcome anyone who would like to see the Gradex in action to give us a call and schedule a visit to our Campbell Hall laboratory. If you would like to obtain an electronic (PDF) copy of the Gradex 3000 brochure, click here. If you would like to receive additional information about the Gradex 3000, click the button below and you will have the opportunity to submit a request.