General Description Bitumen 30/40
Bitumen 30/40 is a semi-hard penetration bitumen of grade bitumen that is derived from vacuum distillation of crude oil. It is viscous and durable and is primarily used in road construction and asphalt pavement manufacturing, especially where there is heavy traffic and high stress.
This penetration grade bitumen softens at elevated temperatures and becomes hard in reduced temperatures, exhibiting the characteristics of thermoplastics. Its stiffness-temperature relationship is solely a function of crude oil source and refining process, and it is optimal for use in warm climates.
The “30/40” refers to the depth (in 1/10 mm) that a normal needle penetrates Asphalt at 25°C under specified conditions. The lower the penetration, the more difficult the asphalt — hence Bitumen 30/40 is especially suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Applications of Bitumen 30/40
Asphalt 30/40 has widespread use in:
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) bases and wearing courses
Construction of highways and expressways in hot climates
Airport runways and city roads with heavy traffic
Coastal and tropical regions, where bitumen must resist deformation under heat
Thanks to its lower penetration and higher softening point, Bitumen 30/40 assures long pavement life under adverse conditions.
Key Points in the Application of Bitumen 30/40
See that the surface is well dried and clean before application
Heat gradually to a proper viscosity (avoid overheating)
Wear protective gear at all times: gloves, masks, goggles
Have working spaces well ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes
Packaging of Bitumen 30/40
Asphalt 30/40 is provided in safe packaging units appropriate for domestic consumption and export to other countries:
New Steel Drums: 150 Kg, 180 Kg, 220 Kg
Jumbo Bags: 1 MT or 1300 Kg
Bitubags: 300 Kg
In its intact packaging, safety, retention of quality, and ease in handling are assured during shipping.
Bitumen 30/40 vs. Bitumen 80/100
Feature | Bitumen 30/40 | Bitumen 80/100 |
---|---|---|
Penetration Value | 30 – 40 (Harder) | 80 – 100 (Softer) |
Viscosity | Higher | Lower |
Best Used In | Hot climates, heavy traffic | Cold climates, low traffic |
Softening Point | Higher | Lower |
Deformation Resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
Flexibility | Less | More |
FAQs
Why is Bitumen 30/40 ideal for heavy traffic roads?
Its low viscosity and high penetration ensure resistance to rutting and deformation, even under long-term stress and high temperatures.
Is Bitumen 30/40 ideal for cold mix applications?
No. Due to its hardness and viscosity, it is specifically intended for hot mix asphalt (HMA). More flexible grades like 80/100 are better suited for cold use.
What are the environmental considerations?
Being a petroleum-based product, Asphalt 30/40 has to be stored carefully, disposed of properly, and applied with the correct PPE to prevent environmental pollution.
Is Asphalt 30/40 environmentally friendly?
It is not automatically environmentally friendly but careful handling, reduced wastage, and proper storage minimize environmental damage. Recycled asphalt mixtures can be used for certain jobs to counterbalance bitumen usage as well.
What safety precautions should be observed during application?
Avoid direct contact with skin or inhaling vapors. Use caution when handling heat to avoid burning, and in ventilated situations with appropriate PPE.
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Specification of Asphalt 30/40
Bitumen 30/40 | Test method | Unit | Specification |
---|---|---|---|
Specific gravity @ 25°c | ASTM D70 | Kg/cm3 | 1.01/1.06 |
Penetration @ 25°c | ASTM D5 | mm/10 | 30/40 |
Softening point °c | ASTM D36 | °C | 55/63 |
Ductility @25 °c | ASTM D113 | cm | 100 min |
Loss on heating(wt) % | ASTM D6 | wt % | 0.2 max |
Drop in penetration after heating % | ASTM D5-D6 | % | 20 max |
Flash point °c | ASTM D92 | °C | 250 min |
Solubility is CS2(wt) % | ASTM D4 | wt % | 99.5 min |
Spot test | A.A.S.H.O.T102 | _____ | Negative |