The main difference between Bitumen 60/70 and Bitumen VG30 lies in their grading systems, testing methods, and applications. Here’s a detailed comparison:
Grading System
Bitumen 60/70: Graded based on penetration (Penetration Grade Bitumen).
The number 60/70 refers to the penetration value, which means that at 25°C, the penetration of a standard needle into the bitumen ranges between 60 and 70 deci-millimeters.
Bitumen VG30: Graded based on viscosity (Viscosity Grade Bitumen).
VG30 indicates that the bitumen has a viscosity of 30 at 60°C, ensuring more consistent performance across various temperatures.
Testing Method
Bitumen 60/70: Penetration test measures the hardness or softness of the bitumen by assessing how far a standard needle penetrates into the bitumen under specified conditions.
Bitumen VG30: Viscosity test measures the bitumen’s flow resistance at both 60°C (paving temperature) and 135°C (mixing temperature), giving a better idea of how the bitumen performs under different conditions.
Performance at Different Temperatures
Bitumen 60/70: Its performance is temperature-sensitive since penetration grading does not adequately represent viscosity changes at high or low temperatures.
Bitumen VG30: Provides more consistent performance at varying temperatures. It is tested and graded for both high and low temperatures, making it more reliable under extreme weather conditions.
Applications
Bitumen 60/70:
Commonly used in moderate climate conditions.
Primarily used for paving roads, highways, and airport runways.
Bitumen VG30:
Preferred for areas with higher traffic loads and heavier vehicles due to its superior resistance to deformation.
Suitable for hotter climates and regions where temperatures can fluctuate significantly.
Often used for high-stress applications like expressways, heavy-duty roads, and industrial pavements.
Advantages of VG30 over 60/70
Better temperature performance: VG30 maintains its viscosity across varying temperatures, ensuring improved durability.
More reliable for heavy loads: Its viscosity grading makes it ideal for areas with heavy traffic and higher temperatures.
Consistent Quality: Viscosity grading provides more precise control over bitumen quality, reducing variability in performance.
Summary Table:
Property Bitumen 60/70 Bitumen VG30
Grading System: Penetration Grade Viscosity Grade
Testing Method: Penetration Test Viscosity Test
Performance in Heat: Moderate Better resistance to heat
Climate Suitability: Moderate climates Hotter climates
Application: General road construction Heavy-duty roads, expressways
Traffic Load: Light to moderate Heavy traffic
Conclusion: While Bitumen 60/70 is suitable for general road construction in moderate climates, Bitumen VG30 is a better choice for high-temperature areas and heavy traffic conditions due to its superior performance and reliability.
Aras Petrochemical Company is a prominent supplier and exporter of various types of bitumen in the Middle East and international markets. The company specializes in producing and distributing high-quality bitumen grades tailored to meet diverse construction, industrial, and infrastructure needs.
Bitumen Types Exported by Aras Petrochemical:
Penetration Grade Bitumen
Grades: Bitumen 60/70, 80/100,50/70, 40/50 and many other grades.
Commonly used in road construction, paving, and surface dressing in moderate climates.
Viscosity Grade Bitumen
Grades: VG10, VG20, VG30, and VG40.
Ideal for hot climates and regions with heavy traffic due to its viscosity-based performance.
Oxidized Bitumen
Grades: 75/25, 85/25, 90/25, 90/15, 90/40, 115/15,…
Used in roofing, waterproofing, and industrial applications like pipe coatings.
Performance Grade (PG) Bitumen
PG-based bitumen is designed for extreme temperature conditions and heavy-load projects, such as highways and airports.
Cutback Bitumen
Bitumen mixed with solvents for cold-weather applications or surface treatments.
Emulsion Bitumen
Environmentally friendly bitumen used for road repairs, surface sealing, and cold paving.
Competitive Edge of Aras Petrochemical:
Quality Assurance: Compliance with ASTM, EN, and ISO standards.
Strategic Location: Efficient supply chain within the Middle East and worldwide export capabilities.
Custom Solutions: Ability to provide specific grades of bitumen tailored to project requirements.
Global Reach: Active export to markets in Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond.
Aras Petrochemical’s focus on quality, reliability, and competitive pricing positions it as a leading bitumen exporter in the Middle East.
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