Bitumen
Bitumen, also known as asphalt, is a viscous, black, and sticky substance derived from crude oil through a process called fractional distillation. It's used primarily in road construction and waterproofing applications due to its excellent adhesive and waterproofing properties. The numbers such as 60/70, 80/100, and 40/50 represent the penetration values of the bitumen, indicating the hardness or softness of the material. Here's an explanation of these characteristics and their applications:
Bitumen 60/70
Characteristics: bitumen 60/70 has a penetration value between 60 and 70 (measured in 0.1 mm) when tested at 25°C. It's relatively soft and is suitable for road construction in moderate to hot climates. Bitumen penetration 60/70 stands out as a conventional choice, renowned for its versatility across a wide range of temperatures (-22 to +76 degrees Celsius). The bitumen 60/70 offered by Rincon is supplied from Jey Oil Refining Co. and guaranteed to industry standards.
Applications: It's commonly used as a binder in asphalt mixes for road construction, including surface dressing, asphalt concrete, and hot mix asphalt (HMA). It's also used in the manufacture of bituminous waterproofing membranes.
Bitumen 80/100
Characteristics: Bitumen 80/100 has a penetration value between 80 and 100 (measured in 0.1 mm) when tested at 25°C. It's firmer compared to 60/70 bitumen. We supply our 80/100 bitumen from top Iraqi refineries.
Applications: Bitumen 80/100 is suitable for road construction in areas with high traffic loads and colder climates. It's commonly used in asphalt mixes for wearing courses and heavy-duty pavements.
Bitumen 40/50
Characteristics: Bitumen 40/50 has a penetration value between 40 and 50 (measured in 0.1 mm) when tested at 25°C. It's harder and less viscous compared to 60/70 and 80/100 bitumen.
Applications: Bitumen 40/50 is used in road construction for surface dressing, including sealing and binding aggregates. It's also utilized in the production of roofing felts and waterproofing coatings.
VG30 & VG40 Bitumen
VG30 bitumen, also known as viscosity grade 30 bitumen, is a type of bitumen characterized by its viscosity properties at elevated temperatures. Specifically, VG30 indicates that the bitumen's viscosity is within a certain range at 60 degrees Celsius. This viscosity range is determined by standardized testing methods and is typically specified in centistokes (cSt). VG30 bitumen is commonly used in road construction and asphalt paving projects.
Comparing VG30 bitumen to VG40 bitumen and bitumen 60/70 involves assessing their respective viscosity grades and performance characteristics. VG40 bitumen has a higher viscosity compared to VG30, indicating that it is thicker and more viscous at elevated temperatures. This higher viscosity may offer advantages in certain applications where increased resistance to deformation and rutting is desired, such as in heavy traffic or high-temperature environments.On the other hand, bitumen 60/70, with its lower penetration grade compared to VG30, may exhibit different performance characteristics. Bitumen 60/70 is known for its versatility across a wide range of temperatures and its suitability for coating and adhesion of aggregates in various climate conditions. While VG30 bitumen offers specific viscosity properties tailored for hot mix asphalt applications, bitumen 60/70 may be preferred in projects requiring a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.
In summary, VG30 bitumen is a viscosity-graded bitumen commonly used in road construction and asphalt paving, characterized by its specified viscosity range at elevated temperatures. Its performance and application suitability can be compared to VG40 bitumen, which has a higher viscosity, and bitumen 60/70, which offers different performance characteristics based on its penetration grade. The choice between these bitumen types depends on project requirements, including desired performance attributes, climate conditions, and budget considerations.
To ensure its suitability for diverse climates, rigorous testing procedures are conducted immediately post-production. These tests encompass parameters such as penetration, softening point, ductility, and flash point, guaranteeing the reliability of bitumen 60/70 under varied environmental conditions.The Middle East emerges as a prominent hub for bitumen penetration 60/70 trade, boasting numerous producers who uphold stringent quality standards. Here, the quality assurance stems from the presence of valuable hydrocarbons within the bitumen, ensuring its efficacy. Moreover, the pricing of bitumen 60/70 in the Middle East proves to be more competitive compared to other regions, making it an economically attractive option for buyers worldwide.
How do these grades of bitumen caompare?
- Bitumen 40/50 is harder and less viscous compared to 60/70 and 80/100, making it suitable for sealing and surface dressing applications.
- Bitumen 60/70 and 80/100 are softer and more viscous, making them suitable for asphalt mixes in road construction, particularly in hot climates and areas with heavy traffic.
- Bitumen 80/100 is firmer than 60/70 and is typically used in colder climates and for heavy-duty pavements where higher resistance to deformation is required.
- VG30 bitumen is a viscosity-graded bitumen commonly used in road construction and asphalt paving, characterized by its specified viscosity range at high temperatures.
- VG40 bitumen has a higher viscosity compared to VG30, indicating that it is thicker and more viscous at elevated temperatures, suitable for locations that require increased resistance to deformation and rutting, such as in heavy traffic or high-temperature environments.
Packaging and Shipping
For transportation convenience and safety, various packaging options are available, including short and long steel drums, as well as 1-ton jumbo bags. Bulk shipment presents itself as the most cost-effective choice, aligning with market preferences. Additionally, Rincon River offers customization services, allowing clients to emboss their required markings on bitumen drums prior to shipping. We also transport in heated tanker trucks or railway tank cars upon request to maintain the natural bitumen temperature and viscosity.