GB/T 9284.1-2015 "Binders for paints and varnishes — Determination of softening point — Part 1: Ring-and-ball method" specifies the method for determining the softening point of binders for paints and varnishes using the ring-and-ball method. The test is performed using a fully automatic binder softening point tester. The instrument employs computer-controlled intelligent heating, with a linear heating rate of 5°C per minute, and uses magnetic stirring to ensure uniform temperature of the bath liquid. The instrument automatically detects the descent of the binder under the gravity of the steel ball via laser, recording the average temperature at which the binder contacts the lower plate as the softening point. The instrument features precise heating, sensitive detection, and a high degree of automation. It can simultaneously test two samples and is suitable for the standardized determination of the softening point of binder materials, providing data support for the evaluation of coating performance.