Oxidized Bitumen 110/30, commonly known as blown bitumen 110/30, is a specially formulated type of bitumen that undergoes a controlled oxidation process. This process involves blowing air through bitumen at elevated temperatures, which significantly alters its physical properties.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the world of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30, exploring its production process, applications, and the role it plays in shaping our infrastructure.
What is Oxidized Bitumen 110/30?
Oxidized bitumen 110/30 is a particular type of bitumen produced through an oxidation process. The numbers “110/30” in its name signify two critical properties:
- 110 – Softening Point: The softening point of bitumen is the temperature at which it becomes soft and more viscous. In the case of oxidized bitumen 110/30, the softening point is 110 degrees Celsius (230 degrees Fahrenheit). This relatively high softening point makes it ideal for applications that require resistance to high temperatures.
- 30 – Penetration Value: The penetration value is a measure of the hardness or consistency of bitumen. In the case of 110/30, the penetration value is 30, indicating a harder and less viscous bitumen compared to other bitumen varieties. This property is particularly valuable in applications demanding durability and long-term performance.
Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 has a different name, Some of these alternative names include:
- Blown Asphalt 110/30
- Blown Bitumen 110/30
- Oxidizing Bitumen 110/30
- Oxidized Asphalt 110/30
- Air Blown Asphalt 110/30
- Air-Rectified Bitumen 110/30
The oxidation process increases the bitumen’s softening point, making it less susceptible to high temperatures, and reduces its penetration level, resulting in a harder and more durable material. Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 has a variety of applications, especially in industries that require high-performance and durable binding materials. Its uses include roofing, waterproofing, insulation, and as a component in industrial adhesives and sealants. The specific characteristics of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30, such as its enhanced thermal stability, strong adhesion properties, and resistance to water, make it an excellent choice for demanding applications where temperature variation and water resistance are critical factors.
Description of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30
Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 is a good grade of oxidized asphalt to use as bonding compounds as hot melt adhesive at an application rate of approximately 1 Kg/m3 to bond the preformed sheets together and to structure which is made by Bitumen 60/70 by hot air.
Nomenclature and grading for the Oxidized Bitumen products are based on a combination of temperatures. At which bitumen reaches a certain “softness” when being heated up as expressed by the ring and ball softening point test, and the penetration value In addition, the numbers relate to the midpoint of the material’s softening point and penetration respectively. for example, The numbers (110 and 30) relate to the midpoint of the material’s softening point and penetration respectively.
The bitumen content of asphalt is one of its most important characteristics. Using an Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 content lower than required may result in a dry, stiff mixture that is difficult to place and compact and will be prone to cracking and other durability problems while possessing lower resistance to fatigue cracking. Too much bitumen is likely to make the asphalt uneconomic because of the relatively high cost of bitumen and, in performance terms, it is likely to make the asphalt prone to bleeding and deformation. The asphalt content of bitumen 110-30 depends on the process of the production line. if heated too much it may convert to coke.
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Manufacturing Process of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30
Oxidized bitumen 110/30 is a modified bitumen produced through a controlled air-blowing process. This process involves blowing hot air through heated bitumen, causing chemical reactions that change the physical properties of the bitumen. The modified bitumen has a higher softening point, lower penetration, and enhanced resistance to weathering and aging. The Manufacturing Process of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 has 8 steps.
1. Raw Material Preparation:
- Selection: High-quality bitumen is used as the starting material. This is typically obtained through vacuum distillation of crude oil, which separates the heavier bitumen from the lighter hydrocarbon materials.
2. Heating:
- The selected bitumen is heated to a high temperature, generally between 240°C – 260°C, in a specially designed oxidation furnace. This preheating stage prepares the bitumen for oxidation and ensures uniform temperature distribution during the blowing process.
3. Air Blowing:
- Hot air is blown through the heated bitumen at a controlled rate and temperature. The air acts as a catalyst, initiating chemical reactions within the bitumen molecules. These reactions lead to the formation of new chemical bonds, which alter the molecular structure of the bitumen.
4. Cooling:
- After air blowing, the oxidized bitumen is cooled to a controlled temperature. This prevents further oxidation reactions and stabilizes the modified bitumen.
5. Filtering:
- The cooled oxidized bitumen is passed through a filter system to remove impurities and ensure a clean, consistent product.
6. Mixing and Blending:
- Oxidized bitumen 110/30 is often blended with other additives, such as stabilizers or polymers, to further enhance its properties and tailor it for specific applications.
7. Storage and Packaging:
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Storage: The oxidized bitumen is stored in heated tanks to maintain its viscosity and prevent hardening.
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Packaging: The oxidized bitumen is packaged in various forms, such as drums, bags, or pails, depending on the desired size and handling requirements.
8. Quality Control:
- Testing: Regular quality control tests are conducted to ensure that the oxidized bitumen meets the specified standards for properties such as softening point, penetration, and viscosity.
Application of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30
Blown Asphalt 110/30 is the most widely used for a wide range of tasks such as road construction and hydroelectric installations, but it is also used in the oil and gas industry, the electrical sector, the flooring and mastic sector, and the roofing sector.
- Roofing and Waterproofing: This type of bitumen is widely utilized in roofing and waterproofing applications. Its high softening point ensures that it remains stable even in regions with extreme temperatures. It serves as the foundation for roofing materials and waterproofing compounds that need to provide robust protection against water infiltration and environmental stress.
- Pavement Sealants and Coatings: Oxidized bitumen 110/30 is a key ingredient in pavement sealants and coatings. Its ability to resist temperature fluctuations and provide exceptional adhesion makes it a preferred choice for safeguarding asphalt pavements. These sealants extend the life of roads and parking lots by preventing water infiltration and minimizing damage from UV radiation and weathering.
- Pipe Coating: The durability and weather resistance of this bitumen make it an excellent choice for protecting pipes from corrosion. Applied as a coating, it forms a protective barrier that enhances the life expectancy of pipelines used in various industries, particularly in oil and gas.
- Joint Fillers and Expansion Joints: In the construction sector, oxidized bitumen 110/30 is used to create joint fillers and expansion joints. Its relatively high softening point ensures it remains effective, especially in hot climates, where it provides secure sealing capabilities in concrete structures subject to expansion and contraction.
- Roofing Felt and Membranes: This specialized bitumen plays a critical role in the production of roofing felt and membranes. It fortifies the overall strength and durability of these materials, ensuring they can withstand years of exposure to the elements.
- Asphalt Modification: In road construction, oxidized bitumen 110/30 can be used as a modifier in asphalt mixtures to enhance their resistance to rutting and cracking, particularly in high-temperature environments.
The Benefits of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 in road construction and maintenance
- High softening point: This property ensures that the asphalt pavement remains stable and resistant to deformation under high temperatures, such as those experienced during summer months.
- Moderate penetration depth: This property provides a balance between hardness and flexibility, allowing the asphalt pavement to withstand traffic loads without cracking or rutting.
- Excellent water resistance: This property prevents water penetration into the pavement, which can lead to structural deterioration and potholes.
- Enhanced durability: The combination of high softening point, moderate penetration depth, and excellent water resistance contributes to the long-lasting performance of asphalt pavements made with oxidized bitumen 110/30.
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Properties of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30
Blown Asphalt 110/30 is a type of modified bitumen commonly used in various construction and industrial applications. It is produced by subjecting regular bitumen to an oxidation process, which involves the controlled introduction of air at elevated temperatures. This process alters the physical and chemical properties of the bitumen, making it more suitable for specific applications. Here are some of the properties and characteristics of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30:
- Viscosity: Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 has a higher viscosity compared to regular bitumen. This means it is thicker and more resistant to flow at normal temperatures. The “110” in the name refers to the penetration value (in dmm) at 25°C, which is 110, indicating its relatively higher viscosity.
- Softening Point: The softening point of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 is around 30°C (86°F). This property determines the temperature at which the bitumen becomes pliable and can be used effectively in various applications. A higher softening point indicates better resistance to deformation at high temperatures.
- Durability: Oxidized bitumen is known for its increased durability and weather resistance. It can withstand higher temperatures without becoming soft or flowing, making it ideal for applications in hot climates.
- Adhesion: This type of bitumen exhibits good adhesion to a variety of materials, including aggregates and surfaces. It is often used as a binder in road construction and roofing.
- Water Resistance: Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 is less susceptible to moisture damage and can provide a waterproofing barrier when used in construction and roofing projects.
- Aging Resistance: It has enhanced resistance to aging and oxidation over time. This results in a longer service life when compared to regular bitumen.
- Temperature Stability: It maintains its properties and performance over a wide range of temperatures, which is essential for various applications in road construction and pavement.
- Application Areas: Oxidized Bitumen 110/30 is commonly used for manufacturing roofing materials, road construction, bridge decks, pipeline coatings, and other industrial applications where durability and weather resistance are critical.
- Modified Bitumen: It can be further modified with additives to enhance specific properties, such as increased flexibility or improved temperature resistance.
Safety & Health of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30
workers should comply with these tips:
- Ventilation: workers anywhere working should have appropriate Ventilation Because Oxidized Bitumen can release fumes when heated, which can be harmful if inhaled.
- Protective Equipment: workers should use heat-resistant gloves, safety shoes, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and safety goggles.
- Fire Safety: Workers work with high temperatures for this reason Keep bitumen away from open flames or sparks and have appropriate fire extinguishing equipment on hand.
Packing of Blown Bitumen 110/30
Bitukim is a manufacturer of oxidized Asphalt 110/30 in various packing, including:
- Meltable Polyamide Bags in (20&25 Kg)
- Carton Box in (20,25&40 Kg)
- Kraft Bags in (20,25&40 Kg)
- Blocks in (20,25&40 Kg)
- Drums in (20&25 Kg)
Capacity of Loading Container
25kg PP Bag: Palletized and Shrink Wrapped
Loading 920 Bag in 20ft Container= 23 Ton Net
25kg Carton Box- Palletized and Shrink Wrapped
Loading 880 Carton Box in 20ft Container= 22 Ton Net
Specification of Oxidized Bitumen 110/30
| BITUMEN 110/30 | TEST METHOD | UNIT | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specific gravity @ 25/25 °c | ASTM D70 | Kg/cm³ | 1.05 approx |
| Penetration @ 25°c | ASTM D5 | mm/10 | 10-25 |
| Softening point °c | ASTM D36 | °C | 100-120 |
| Ductility @ 25°c | ASTM D113 | cm | 2 min |
| Loss on heating(wt) % | ASTM D6 | wt % | 0.2 max |
| Flashpoint °c | ASTM D92 | °C | 230 min |
| Solubility is CS2(wt) % | ASTM D4 | wt % | 99 max |
