Bitumen VG 30

 

Viscosity Grade Bitumen 30 Description

Viscosity Grade Bitumen 30 (VG-30) is a type of bitumen classified based on its viscosity at specific temperatures, following the viscosity grading system. VG-30 is commonly used in areas with heavy traffic and high temperatures due to its superior properties compared to lower viscosity grades.

         Key Properties of VG-30

             Physical Properties

  1. Viscosity:
    –  At 60°C: VG-30 bitumen has a viscosity range of 300 ± 60 poises.
    –  At 135°C: Typically measured to ensure suitability for mixing and laying temperatures, ensuring workability at elevated temperatures.
  2. Penetration
    – Measures the hardness by the depth a standard needle penetrates at 25°C. VG-30 has a lower penetration value compared to VG-20 and VG-10, indicating it is harder and more resilient to deformation.
  3. Softening Point:
    – The temperature at which bitumen softens and becomes flowable. For VG-30, the softening point is typically in the range of 55-65°C, making it more suitable for high-temperature conditions.
  4. Ductility:
    – Indicates the ability of bitumen to stretch without breaking. VG-30 bitumen generally has good ductility, measured at 25°C, which contributes to its ability to withstand thermal stress and prevent cracking.
  5. Flash Point
    – The temperature at which bitumen emits vapor that can ignite in air. VG-30 has a high flash point, typically above 220°C, ensuring safety during heating and application processes.

            Chemical Properties

  1. Solubility in Trichloroethylene:
    – VG-30 bitumen should have a solubility of 99% or higher, indicating high purity and the absence of significant non-bituminous materials.
  2. Loss on Heating:
    – The percentage loss in weight after heating for a specified duration. VG-30 exhibits minimal loss on heating, generally less than 1%, indicating good thermal stability.

            Performance Properties

  1. Adhesion:
    – VG-30 has excellent adhesive properties, ensuring it binds well with aggregates. This improves the overall integrity and durability of the pavement, reducing the risk of surface wear and disintegration.
  2. Temperature Susceptibility:
    – VG-30 is designed to perform well in high-temperature environments, maintaining its structural integrity and resistance to deformation.
  3. Durability:
    – Exhibits excellent resistance to aging and weathering, ensuring long-lasting performance even under heavy traffic loads and extreme weather conditions.

Application of VG Bitumen 30

  1. Highway Construction:
    – Used extensively in the construction of highways and other roads with heavy traffic. Its hardness and durability make it suitable for such demanding applications.
  2. Bituminous Concrete:
    – VG-30 is used in the production of bituminous concrete for road surfaces, providing a stable and durable layer that can withstand high traffic loads.
  3. Airports and Runways:
    – Suitable for constructing and maintaining airport runways and taxiways due to its ability to handle heavy loads and resist deformation.
  4. Heavy Traffic Roads:
    – Ideal for urban roads, arterial roads, and other areas with heavy traffic where the pavement needs to endure substantial stress.
  5. Bitumen Emulsions:
    – Used in the production of bitumen emulsions for various road construction and maintenance activities, especially where high performance is required.
  6. Modified Bitumen Products:
    – VG-30 can be modified with polymers or other additives to enhance its properties for specific high-stress applications.

Specific Tests and Standards VG 30

VG-30 bitumen must meet the specifications set by various standards organizations, such as Indian Standards (IS), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), or other regional standards. Common tests include:

  • Viscosity Test (IS 1206 (Part II) or ASTM D2171):To determine the viscosity at specified temperatures.
  • Penetration Test (IS 1203 or ASTM D5):To measure the penetration value.
  • Softening Point Test (IS 1205 or ASTM D36):To determine the softening point.
  • Ductility Test (IS 1208 or ASTM D113):To assess ductility.
  • Flash Point Test (IS 1209 or ASTM D92):To determine the flash point.
  • Solubility Test (IS 1216 or ASTM D2042):To measure solubility in trichloroethylene.

These properties and tests ensure that VG-30 bitumen meets the necessary performance criteria for demanding applications, particularly in regions with heavy traffic and high temperatures, ensuring reliable and durable road infrastructure.

    Bitumen VG 30

Packing of Bitumen VG 30

Bitumen VG 10 is typically packed and transported in a variety of ways Here are some common packing options for Bitumen VG 30:

  • 180kg New Steel Drum: Loading 110 Drum in 20 ft
  • 375Kg Bitubag: Loading 24 MT in 20 ft Container
  • Bulk in vessel: Loading 2000 to 20,000 MT in Bitumen Carrier
  • Bulk in Flexi Bag: Loading 20 MT in Bitumen Felexi Bag
  • Bulk in Tunker: Loading 25 MT in Truk Tanker

 Bitumen VG 30 Specification

Specification Unit Value Test Method
Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C Poise Min 2400 ASTM D4402
Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C CST Min 350 ASTM D2170
Flash Point ◦C Min 220 ASTM D93
Solubility in Trichloroethylene %WT Min 99 ASTM D2042
Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C 0.1mm 50-70 ASTM D5
Softening Point ◦C Min 47 ASTM D36
Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ◦C ◦C Max 4 ASTM D4402
Ductility at 25 ◦C, after thin film oven test Cm Min 40 ASTM D113
Specific Gravity, at 25 ◦C Kg/m³ Min 1.0131 ASTM D70

 

Bitumen VG 30

Specification of Bitumen VG 30