Viscosity Grade

Viscosity Grade VG Bitumen 30, Bitumen VG30

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VG Bitumen 30

Description of Viscosity Grade Bitumen 30

VG bitumen 30, also known as viscosity grade 30 bitumen, is a type of bitumen used in road construction and asphalt paving. It is classified based on its viscosity at a specific temperature, which helps determine its suitability for various road construction projects. VG 30 bitumen has specific properties that make it suitable for certain applications.

VG Bitumen 30 is part of the viscosity grading system for bitumen. This system categorizes bitumen based on its viscosity at 60°C (140°F). VG Bitumen 30 indicates that the bitumen has a specific range of viscosity at this temperature.
The higher viscosity of VG 30 bitumen makes it more suitable for withstanding the stresses and strains associated with heavy traffic. It provides better resistance to deformation (rutting) and cracking in hot weather conditions.

Also, you can read more information about Viscosity Grade Bitumen with this link. (Click)

Application of VG Bitumen 30

  1. Road Construction:
    • Bitumen is commonly used as a binder in asphalt mixtures for road construction and maintenance. Different viscosity grades are selected depending on factors like climate, traffic volume, and road type.
    • Higher viscosity grades (e.g., VG 30, VG 40) are often used in hot mix asphalt for high-traffic roads and areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
  2. Roofing:
    • Modified bitumen roofing systems use bitumen with additives to enhance its properties. The choice of bitumen grade depends on the specific roofing requirements.
  3. Waterproofing:
    • Bitumen is used in waterproofing applications, such as sealing roofs, foundations, and underground structures. Different grades may be selected based on the waterproofing project’s needs.
  4. Paving and Surfacing:
    • Bitumen is used in the construction of airport runways, parking lots, and other paved surfaces.
  5. Emulsions:
    • Bitumen emulsions are used in various applications, including road repair, tack coating, and dust control.
  6. Industrial Applications:
    • Bitumen can be used in various industrial settings, such as in the production of paints, coatings, adhesives, and sealants.

Properties of Viscosity Grade Bitumen 30

  1. Viscosity: Bitumen exhibits high viscosity, which means it is thick and resistant to flow at room temperature. Viscosity can vary depending on the grade of bitumen.
  2. Temperature Sensitivity: Bitumen’s viscosity decreases with increasing temperature, making it more fluid and workable at higher temperatures. This property is crucial for its use in paving and road construction.
  3. Adhesion: Bitumen has excellent adhesive properties, allowing it to bond well with various aggregates and surfaces. This property is essential for creating durable asphalt pavements.
  4. Durability: Bitumen is highly durable and can withstand the stresses and strains imposed by heavy traffic loads, weather, and environmental factors. It has good resistance to water and UV radiation.
  5. Elasticity: Bitumen exhibits a degree of elasticity, which allows it to deform and recover without cracking under traffic loads and temperature fluctuations.
  6. Waterproofing: Bitumen is an effective waterproofing material and is used in applications such as roofing and waterproofing membranes.
  7. Temperature Range: Bitumen can be used in a wide temperature range, from cold climates where it remains solid to hot climates where it becomes a viscous liquid.
  8. Rheological Properties: Bitumen’s rheological properties, such as its complex viscosity and elastic modulus, are crucial in designing asphalt mixtures for specific applications.
  9. Thermal Properties: Bitumen has good heat-absorbing properties, which is beneficial in road construction where it helps in snow and ice melting.
  10. Chemical Resistance: Bitumen is generally resistant to many chemicals, including most acids and bases.
  11. Recyclability: Bitumen can be recycled, and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is commonly used in asphalt mixtures, reducing the demand for new bitumen and aggregate.
  12. Color: Bitumen is typically black due to its composition, which includes carbonaceous materials. This black color helps absorb heat and is advantageous for road surfaces in colder climates.

Safety tips of VG 30

Viscosity Grade 30 is a hazardous material and should be handled with care. Some safety tips when using VG 30 are:

  • Protective Equipment: Always wear appropriate PPE when handling VG 30, including gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing.
  • Ventilation: Ensure that there is adequate ventilation when using  Bitumen VG 30, as the fumes can be hazardous.
  • Handling and Transfer: Transport  VG 30  in approved containers and vehicles, following all safety regulations.

Packing of VG Bitumen 30

Viscosity Grade 30 is typically packed and transported in a variety of ways Here are some common packing options for Bitumen VG 30:

  • New Steel Drum => 180Kg
  • Bitubag => 375Kg
  • Bulk in vessel
  • Bulk in Flexi Bag
  • Bulk in Tanker

Specification of VG Bitumen 30

SpecificationUnitValueTest Method
Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦CPoiseMin 2400ASTM D4402
Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦CCSTMin 350ASTM D2170
Flash Point◦CMin 220ASTM D93
Solubility in Trichloroethylene%WTMin 99ASTM D2042
Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C0.1mm50-70ASTM D5
Softening Point◦CMin 47ASTM D36
Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ◦C◦CMax 4ASTM D4402
Ductility at 25 ◦C, after thin film oven testCmMin 40ASTM D113
Specific Gravity, at 25 ◦CKg/m³Min 1.0131ASTM D70

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