Penetration Grade Bitumen: Grades, Values & Uses

Penetration Grade Bitumen And Their Specifications

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Overview

Safety Measures

Penetration grade bitumen or penetration asphalt is a type of bitumen classified and graded based on its penetration value, which is a measure of its consistency or hardness. It is a type of bitumen used in various construction and road paving applications.

The penetration value is determined using a standard needle, how deeply it penetrates into the bitumen sample under specific conditions. The standard test method for determining the penetration value is ASTM D5 or equivalent methods.

Features

Features of Penetration Grade Bitumen

Penetration Value: Obtain suitable insurance coverage for the transportation of bitumen to mitigate risks associated with potential spills, accidents, or other incidents.
Standard Grades: Comply with customs regulations and documentation requirements for international shipments.
Uses: Develop and communicate an emergency response plan in case of accidents or spills during transportation.

For a particular project, it’s critical to select the right penetration grade bitumen to ensure the durability and effectiveness of the asphalt mix. The best grade for a particular application depends critically on elements including climate, traffic volume, and environmental factors. To select the best bitumen grade for your application, contact top bitumen suppliers in the UAE.

Penetration Grade Bitumen Specification (AASHTO M 20 and ASTM D 946)

	Units	40/50	60/70	80/100	100/120	Test Methods
Specific Gravity @25°C	-	1.01-1.06	1.01-1.06	1.01-1.05	1.01-1.04	ASTM D-70
Penetration @25°C, 100gm, 5sec	0.1MM	40-50	60-70	80-100	100-120	ASTM D-5
Softening Point, Ring & Ball	°C	52-60	49-56	45-52	42-49	ASTM D-36
Ductility @25°C, after TFOT, Min	CM	100	100	100	100	ASTM D-113
Loss on Heating, Max	%Wt	0.2	0.2	0.5	0.5	ASTM D-6
Drop in Penetration after Heating, Max	%	20.0	20.0	20.0	20.0	ASTM D-6 & D-5
Flash Point Cleveland open cup, Min	°C	250.0	250.0	232.0	250.0	ASTM D-92
Solubility in CS2, Min	%Wt	99.5	99.5	99.5	99.5	ASTM D-4
Organic Matter Insoluble in CS2, Max	%Wt	0.5	0.5	0.5	0.5	ASTM D-4
Spot Test	-	Negative	Negative	Negative	Negative	*A.A.S.H.O.T.102
*American association of state highway officials

Bitumen Specification European Standard (BS EN 12591)

	Units	35-50	40-60	50-70	70-100	100-150	Test Methods
Penetration @25°C, 100gm, 5sec	0.1MM	35-50	40-60	50-70	70-100	100-150	EN 1426
Softening Point, Ring & Ball	°C	50-58	48-56	46-54	43-51	39-47	EN 1427
Resistance to Hardening@163°C
Change in mass, Max	%Wt	0.5	0.5	0.5	0.8	0.8	EN 12607-1
Retained Penetration, Min	0.1MM	53	50	50	46	43
Softening point after hardinging, Min	°C	52	49	48	45	41
Other Properties
Flash Point Cleveland open cup, Min	°C	240	230	230	230	230	230
Solubility in CS2, Min	%Wt	99.0	99.0	99.0	99.0	99.0	EN 12592
Kinematic Viscocity @135°C, Min	mm2/S	370	325	295	230	175	EN 12595

Bitumen Penetration Grade 20/30

This bitumen penetration grade is a typical or normal penetration grade Bitumen that is used for the construction of roads and for the production of asphalt pavements with finer properties. It is also used in the hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses. Learn More

Bitumen Penetration Grade 40/50

This is the type of bitumen used for the manufacturing of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses and is used in road construction in tropical regions. Due to its high air blowing and penetration, it is used in tropical areas with warm weather. Learn More

Bitumen Penetration Grade 60/70

This bitumen is a standard penetration grade, appropriate for the construction of roads, and produces a superior quality of asphalt pavement. It is also used in the applications of chips and spraying. Due to its medium air blowing and penetration, it is used in mild areas. Learn More

Bitumen Penetration Grade 80/100

This one is also suitable for the construction of roads, streets and for the manufacturing of high-quality asphalt pavement. Moreover, its chief use is spraying and the application of chips. Due to its relatively low air blowing and penetration, it is used in cold areas. Learn More

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Types of Bitumen