What is Bitumen VG20?
Bitumen VG20 is a viscosity grade bitumen utilized in road construction, asphalt production, and construction in cold to temperate climates. It is a black, viscous hydrocarbon substance acquired from the distillation of crude oil and is noted for its balance between flexibility and stiffness.
VG” refers to Viscosity Grade and “20” is its viscosity grade at 60°C, and hence it is appropriate for places with temperature ranging between 30°C and 37°C.
Properties and Advantages
Excellent performance at cold and high-altitude regions
High rutting resistance and surface deformation
Offers skid resistance and pavement durability
Removes the possibility of cracking at low temperatures
Is appropriate for use in hot mix asphalt
Applications of VG20 Bitumen
VG20 bitumen is applied primarily in road construction, especially in temperate or cool climates, as in high-altitude areas or mountainous northern climates where temperatures range predominantly from 30°C to 37°C. Its slightly lower viscosity facilitates ease of usage in such temperatures with ready mixing, laying, and compaction during road construction.
It is commonly used in the production of hot mix asphalt, particularly in the base course and wearing course, where there is a need for strength and flexibility.
It is highly resistant to surface cracking and damage due to perpetual changes in temperature. Hence, it is most suitable for roads where there is fluctuation in weather or where there is a need for resilience and performance over time. VG20 has also excellent skid resistance, promoting road safety for vehicles. It is also used in the manufacturing of bitumen emulsions and modified bitumen, which are essential products in more complex or specialized roadworks. Countries with temperate climates India, Nepal, and parts of Africa prefer to use VG20 for its balance between resilience and strength in asphalt applications.
VG20 vs. VG30
| Feature | VG20 | VG30 |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity | Lower | Higher |
| Best for | Cold/moderate climates | Warm/hot climates |
| Workability | More workable at low T° | Better resistance in heat |
| Traffic Load | Moderate | Heavy |
Packaging Options
Bitumen VG20 comes in the following packaging:
New Steel Drums: 150 kg, 180 kg, 200 kg, 240 kg (other sizes can be made available upon request)
Jumbo Bags: 330 kg, 1000 kg
Bulk Delivery: Tankers, Bitutainers, or Flexi Bags
Why choose VG20 Bitumen?
VG20 is a workhorse grade for roadside schemes in changeable weather but not so much in extreme weather. It provides a perfect balance of viscosity, performance, and durability, hence the best grade in India, Nepal, and other regions of Asia and Africa.
Specification
| Property | Units | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5sec, Min | 0.1 MM | 60 | IS 1203 |
| Absolute viscosity at 60°C | p | 1600-2400 | IS 1206 (Part 2) |
| Kinematic viscosity at 135°C, Min | cSt | 300 | IS 1206 (Part 3) |
| Flash point(Cleveland open cup),Min | °C | 220 | IS 1448 [P : 69] |
| Solubility in trichloroethylene, Min | %Wt. | 99 | IS 1216 |
| Softening point (R&B), Min | °C | 45 | IS 1205 |
| Tests on residue from thin-film oven test: | |||
| Viscosity ratio at 60°C, Max | P | 4.0 | IS 1206 (Part 2) |
| Ductility at 25°C, Min | CM | 50 | IS 1208 |
