Bitumen VG 30
Properties
Moderate Viscosity: Bitumen VG-30 exhibits a balanced viscosity, making it suitable for diverse paving applications. Adhesion Properties: It bonds well with aggregates, forming durable, stable asphalt mixtures.
Rheological Properties: Bitumen VG-30 is designed to withstand traffic loads, temperature fluctuations, and environmental forces without significant deformation or cracking. Water Resistance: It has excellent resistance to water and environmental elements, enhancing the longevity of pavements.
Applications
1. Road Construction
Bitumen VG-30 is primarily used in the construction of flexible pavements. Its moderate viscosity ensures easy mixing and compaction of the asphalt mixture, resulting in a smooth and durable pavement. It is commonly employed in the production of:
- Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)
- Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA)
- Mastic Asphalt
2. Surface Dressing
Bitumen VG-30 is also widely used in surface dressing, a cost-effective maintenance technique where a thin layer of bitumen and aggregates is applied to an existing road surface. This technique improves skid resistance and waterproofing, extending the lifespan of the road surface.
3. Waterproofing and Pavements
In addition to its role in road construction, Bitumen VG-30 is used in waterproofing applications. Its ability to create a waterproof seal makes it suitable for areas that need extra protection against water damage. Its role in flexible pavements ensures that stresses and loads are evenly distributed, enhancing the performance of the road under varying conditions.
Benefits
- Moderate Viscosity: Allows for easy mixing, compaction, and application, ensuring high-quality pavement surfaces.
- Durability: Resists deformation and cracking, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Versatility: Can be used in a variety of asphalt mixtures and maintenance techniques.
- Cold and Moderate Climate Suitability: Performs well in regions with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for a wide range of geographical areas.
- Water Resistance: Enhances the waterproofing and longevity of paved surfaces.
Packaging Options
Bitumen VG-30 is available in several packaging options to suit the needs of various projects:
- Bulk
- New Steel Drum
- 1 MT Jumbo Bag
- 300 kg Bitubag
- Bitutainer
These packaging options ensure easy transportation, handling, and application for both large-scale infrastructure projects and smaller maintenance tasks.
Conclusion
Bitumen VG-30 is an essential material in road construction and maintenance due to its moderate viscosity, adhesion properties, and resistance to environmental factors. It plays a crucial role in creating durable and reliable road networks that support safe and efficient transportation. As infrastructure needs continue to grow, Bitumen VG-30 remains a key component in the development of resilient, long-lasting pavements.
| Characteristics | Unit | VG 30 | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity @ 60 °C, Poises | °C | Min.2400 | IS 1206 (Part 2) |
| Kinematic Viscosity @ 135 °C | cSt | Min.350 | IS 1206 (Part 3) |
| Softening Point (R&B) | °C | Min.47 | IS 1205 |
| Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup) | °C | Min.220 | IS 1209 |
| Solubility in trichloroethylene | % | Min.99 | IS 1206 |
| Penetration @ 25 °C (100 grams, 5 seconds) | 0.1 | 50-70 | IS 1203 |
| mm | |||
| Test on residue from thin film oven tests/RTFOT | |||
| i) Viscosity ratio @ 60 °C | °C | Max. 4.0 | IS 1206 (Part 2) |
| ii) Ductility @ 25 °C (Thin film oven test) | Cm | Min.40 | IS 1208 |
| Specification Gravity @ 27/27 | °C | Min.0.99 | IS 1202 |
| Conforms to BIS (IS 73:2006) Specifications | |||
| Specification | 150kg bitumen drum | 180kg bitumen drum | 200kg bitumen drum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height (mm) | 860 | 980 | 980 |
| Diameter (mm) | 500 | 500 | 500 |
| Body Thickness (mm) | 0.6 | 0.6 | 0.6 |
| Top/Base thickness (mm) | 0.6 | 0.6 | 0.6 |
| Net weight +/- 2.5 (kg) | 150 | 182 | 210 |
| Gross weight +/-2.5 (kg) | 158 | 192 | 220 |
| Empty drum weight +/-1 (kg) | 8.5 | 9.5 | 10 |