Introduction
Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45, supplied by Bitukim, is a high-quality paving grade bitumen known for its optimal balance of hardness and flexibility, making it ideal for road construction, pavement preservation, and industrial applications. With a penetration value of 30 to 45, this bitumen grade ensures durability and performance in demanding conditions. In this guide, we explore the properties, applications, packaging, and safety considerations of Bitumen 30/45, highlighting why Bitukim is a trusted supplier of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45 in Dubai, UAE, and beyond. (CONTACT US)
What is Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45?
Bitumen 30/45 is a petroleum-based bitumen produced through fractional or vacuum distillation of crude oil, characterized by its penetration value of 30 to 45 (measured in tenths of a millimeter). This value indicates the depth a standard needle penetrates the bitumen under specific conditions, as per ASTM D5 standards, reflecting its consistency and hardness. As a leading supplier of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45, Bitukim ensures that its product meets stringent quality standards, making it suitable for creating resilient asphalt pavements and other construction applications.
Key Characteristics
- Penetration Value: Ranges from 30 to 45, indicating a harder consistency compared to softer grades like 60/70 or 80/100.
- Viscosity: Moderate, allowing effective binding with aggregates in asphalt mixes.
- Adhesion: Strong adhesion to aggregates, ensuring stable and durable surfaces.
- Elasticity: Expands and contracts with temperature changes, preventing cracks.
- Durability: Resists wear from traffic, weather, and environmental factors.
- Weather Resistance: Withstands rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations.
Applications of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45
Bitumen 30/45, supplied by Bitukim, is a versatile and widely used product across the construction and industrial sectors. Its properties make it a preferred choice for projects requiring robust and long-lasting materials.
1. Road Construction
As a paving grade bitumen, Bitumen 30/45 is a critical binder in hot mix asphalt (HMA) for road bases and wearing courses. It provides the strength, flexibility, and adhesion needed to create roads that withstand heavy traffic and harsh environmental conditions. Bitukim’s Bitumen 30/45 ensures high-performance asphalt pavements for highways, urban roads, and airport runways.
2. Pavement Preservation
Bitumen 30/45 is used in preservation techniques like chip seals and slurry seals, extending the lifespan of existing roads. These treatments prevent cracks, enhance skid resistance, and protect against wear, reducing maintenance costs. Bitukim supplies this grade to contractors seeking cost-effective pavement solutions.
3. Roofing Applications
In roofing, Bitumen 30/45 serves as a waterproofing and weather-resistant material in built-up roofing (BUR) systems. Its durability ensures long-lasting protection for commercial and residential buildings, even in extreme climates like those in the UAE.
4. Industrial Uses
Beyond construction, Bitumen 30/45 is used in manufacturing coatings, adhesives, and sealants for industrial applications. Its versatility makes it valuable in industries ranging from automotive to marine, where durable materials are essential.
Properties of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45
The following properties make Bitumen 30/45 a reliable choice for construction projects, as supplied by Bitukim:
- Penetration Value: 30–45 (0.1 mm), ensuring a harder consistency for durability.
- Viscosity: Balanced for easy mixing and application in asphalt production.
- Adhesion: Strong bonding with aggregates, critical for stable road surfaces.
- Elasticity: Accommodates thermal expansion, preventing cracks.
- Durability: Resists wear from traffic and environmental factors.
- Weather Resistance: Protects against rain, UV rays, and temperature extremes.
- Workability: Moderate viscosity enhances mixing and compaction.
- Compatibility: Works with various aggregates and additives for customized asphalt blends.
Comparison with Other Bitumen Grades
The table below compares Bitumen 30/45 with other common grades to highlight its unique properties:
| Bitumen Grade | Penetration Value (0.1 mm) | Applications | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitumen 30/45 | 30–45 | Road construction, roofing, industrial uses | Hard, durable, weather-resistant |
| Bitumen 60/70 | 60–70 | General road construction, pavement | Softer, more flexible |
| Bitumen 80/100 | 80–100 | Low-traffic roads, warm climates | Softest, highly workable |
This comparison underscores why Bitukim’s Bitumen 30/45 is ideal for projects requiring a balance of hardness and flexibility.
Safety Considerations for Handling Bitumen 30/45
Handling Bitumen 30/45 requires adherence to safety protocols to protect workers and ensure safe operations:
- Ventilation: Work in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhaling fumes released during heating.
- Protective Equipment: Wear heat-resistant gloves, safety shoes, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and safety goggles.
- Fire Safety: Keep bitumen away from open flames or sparks and have fire extinguishers on hand, as it is handled at high temperatures.
- Storage: Store in cool, dry conditions to maintain quality and prevent hazards.
Bitukim provides safety guidelines with every supply to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Packaging Options for Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45
As a premier supplier of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45, Bitukim offers flexible packaging to meet diverse project needs:
- 1 MT Jumbo Bag with Steel Cage and Pallet: Loads 20 MT in a 20 ft container.
- 1 MT Jumbo Bag without Cage and Pallet: Loads 20 MT in a 40 ft container.
- 1300 Kg Jumbo Bag: Loads 26 MT in a 40 ft container.
- 180 Kg New Steel Drum: Loads 110 drums in a 20 ft container.
- 375 Kg Bitubag: Loads 24 MT in a 20 ft container.
- Bulk in Vessel: Loads 2,000 to 20,000 MT in a bitumen carrier.
- Bulk in Flexi Bag: Loads 20 MT in a bitumen flexi bag.
- Bulk in Tanker: Loads 25 MT in a truck tanker.
These options ensure efficient delivery for projects of all sizes, from small-scale construction to large infrastructure developments.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Bitukim is committed to sustainable practices in bitumen production and supply. Bitumen 30/45 can be used with recycled asphalt pavement (RAP), reducing the need for virgin materials and minimizing waste. Additionally, Bitukim explores eco-friendly binders and low-emission production methods to mitigate environmental impact. By choosing Bitukim as your supplier of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45, you support sustainable construction practices aligned with global environmental goals.
Why Choose Bitukim as Your Supplier of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45?
Bitukim, based in Dubai, UAE, is a trusted name in the bitumen industry, offering high-quality Bitumen 30/45 that meets ASTM and EN standards. Our commitment to quality, reliability, and sustainability makes us the preferred choice for contractors and industries worldwide. Whether you need bitumen for road construction, roofing, or industrial applications, Bitukim delivers tailored solutions with flexible packaging and expert support.
Contact Bitukim Today
Ready to source premium Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45 for your next project? Contact Bitukim for quotes and customized solutions:
- Address: No. 2305 of the Burlington Tower, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
- Phone: +(971) 4 566 4998
- Mobile: +971 (50) 940 9246
- E-mail: info@bitukim.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45 used for?
Bitumen 30/45 is primarily used in road construction, pavement preservation, roofing, and industrial applications like coatings and adhesives. Its hardness and elasticity make it ideal for durable asphalt pavements.
How does Bitumen 30/45 compare to other grades?
Bitumen 30/45 has a penetration value of 30–45, making it harder than 60/70 or 80/100 grades. It’s suited for high-traffic roads and extreme weather, offering a balance of durability and flexibility.
What are the environmental benefits of using Bitumen 30/45?
When used with recycled asphalt pavement (RAP), Bitumen 30/45 reduces material waste and environmental impact. Bitukim supports eco-friendly production methods to enhance sustainability.
How is Bitumen 30/45 tested?
Bitumen 30/45 is tested per ASTM D5 standards to measure its penetration value, ensuring consistency and quality for construction applications.
Why choose Bitukim as a supplier?
Bitukim offers high-quality Bitumen 30/45, flexible packaging, and sustainable practices, backed by expert support from our Dubai office. Contact us at info@bitukim.com for tailored solutions.
Specification of Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/45
| BITUMEN 30/45 | TEST METHOD | UNIT | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penetration – 25°C, 100g, 5s | EN 1426 | mm | 30-45 |
| Softening Point (Ring & Ball) | EN 1427 | °C | 52-60 |
| Kinematic Viscosity @ 135⁰C | EN 12595 | mm²/s | 400 min |
| Solubility | EN 12592 | % | 99 min |
| Flashpoint (Cleveland Open) | EN 22592 | °C | 240 min |
| Recistance to Hardening at 163 °C | |||
| Change in mass (m/m) | EN 22592 | % | 0.5 max |
| Retained Penetration 25°C, 100g, 5s (% of original) | EN 1426 | % | 53 min |
| Increase in softening point | EN 1427 | °C | 8 max |
