Abstract: A gyratory shear material compacting device in which a material sample is placed within a cylindrical mold having a wobble plate. The material sample is compressed by a piston while the mold is simultaneously gyrated. Gyration is achieved by tilting the mold and holding the wobble plate within rollers which revolve around the mold, controlling the selected angle of tilt while imparting oscillatory gyration. The selected angle of tilt of the mold may be precisely controlled at all times, preventing the mold from riding up on the sample, or from coming into contact with the base of the device. The mold is free to advance rotationally. The device is capable of measuring and recording the height of the sample, angle of gyration, and moment of gyration.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for mechanically compacting bituminous paving materials is disclosed comprising a compaction foot having a guide rod extending upwardly therefrom. A compaction hammer is slidable on the guide rod and means are provided for elevating the hammer to a position spaced above the foot. Means are provided for releasing the hammer from the elevating means, the releasing means including means for pivoting the guide rod and the hammer away from their normal vertical position to permit the hammer to fall and strike the compaction foot. The means for pivoting the guide rod includes a releaser body pivotally fixed to the guide rod.