and set
the indicator, F, at the upper end of the scale, or take an initial
reading. Release the rod quickly by releasing the set screw, E,
and allow the needle to settle for 30 s; then take the reading to
determine the penetration. At the option of the tester, if the
paste is obviously quite soft on the early readings, retard the
fall of the rod to avoid bending the 1-mm needle, but when
actual penetration measurements to determine the time of
setting are made, release the rod only by the setscrew