Intro

Bitumen, commonly known as asphalt, is a crucial material in road construction and maintenance. Among various grades, Bitumen 30/45 stands out for its balance between softness and hardness, making it suitable for a range of climates and conditions. In recent years, China has emerged as a significant player in the global bitumen market, particularly in the export of Bitumen 30/45. This article explores the dynamics, key players, and prospects of this industry in China.

Description of Bitumen 30/45

Bitumen 30/45 in China, also known as asphalt 30/45, is a sustainable material used to manufacture hot mix asphalt for foundations, pavements, and road construction. This bitumen can withstand different temperatures and is suitable for moderate climates. It is produced through the refining of crude oil and has a low environmental impact. Bitumen’s thermoplastic properties cause it to become soft at high temperatures and hard at low temperatures. The relationship between temperature and viscosity is crucial in determining parameters such as rheology, adhesion, durability, and bitumen temperature.

China’s vast industrial base and advanced manufacturing capabilities have positioned it as a key supplier of Bitumen 30/45. The country’s extensive refining infrastructure and competitive pricing make it an attractive source of high-quality bitumen. Understanding the landscape of suppliers of Bitumen 30/45 in China is crucial for buyers looking to secure the best product for their projects.

Bitumen 30/45 in China is a penetration-grade bitumen, widely used for paving roads. Its designation “60/70” indicates the penetration range of 30 to 45 mm, a measure of the bitumen’s hardness. This grade is valued for its optimal viscosity and durability, making it an ideal choice for various construction projects.

Properties of Bitumen 30/45

The quality of penetration bitumen 30/45 can vary depending on several factors, such as the source of the crude oil used to produce it, the refining process, and the testing and specifications used to measure its properties. In general, however, some of the key quality characteristics of penetration bitumen 30/45 include:

• Penetration: Penetration bitumen 30/45 has a penetration value between 30 and 45 dmm at 25°C, as measured according to ASTM D5. This property measures the consistency and softness of the bitumen, with higher penetration indicating softer bitumen.
• Softening Point: The softening point of bitumen 30/45 typically falls within the range of 52-60°C, as measured according to ASTM D36. This property measures the temperature at which the bitumen becomes soft and begins to flow.
• Ductility: Bitumen 30/45 has a ductility value of at least 100 cm at 25°C, as measured according to ASTM D113. This property measures the bitumen’s ability to stretch without breaking and is an indication of its flexibility and resistance to cracking.
• Solubility: Bitumen 30/45 is typically 99.5% soluble in carbon disulfide, as measured according to ASTM D4. This property indicates the purity of the bitumen and its resistance to contamination.
• Flash Point: The flash point of bitumen 30/45 is typically at least 225°C, as measured according to ASTM D92. This property indicates the temperature at which the bitumen can ignite when exposed to a flame.
• Other properties: Other quality properties of bitumen 20/30 may include specific gravity, water content, loss on heating, and other physical and chemical characteristics.

The Capability of Bitumen 30/45

Usages of Penetration Grade Bitumen 30/45

Penetration Grade Bitumen 30/45 is a type of bitumen that is commonly used in road construction and paving projects. Its specific properties make it well-suited for a range of applications, including:

• Asphalt paving: Penetration Grade Bitumen 30/45 is commonly used as a binder in asphalt paving mixtures. It helps to hold the aggregate particles together, providing a durable and long-lasting surface that can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.
• Waterproofing: The high viscosity of Penetration Grade Bitumen 30/45 makes it ideal for use as a waterproofing material. It can be applied to roofs, foundations, and other surfaces to prevent water penetration and protect against moisture damage.
• Adhesives: Penetration Grade Bitumen 30/45 is often used as a bonding agent in the production of roofing felt, shingles, and other building materials. Its strong adhesive properties help to hold the materials together and provide a secure, long-lasting bond.
• Pipe coating: Penetration Grade Bitumen 30/45 can be used as a coating for pipes and other metal surfaces to protect against corrosion and prolong their lifespan.
• Emulsions: Penetration-grade bitumen 30/45 can be emulsified with water to produce an asphalt emulsion. This can be used as a sealant or adhesive for various construction applications, such as pavement preservation or crack sealing.

Packing of Bitumen 30/45

Paving Bitumen is commonly packed in new steel drums, 150, 180 & 220 Kg barrels, and Jumbo Bags or Flexi
tanks. Likewise, the rest of the grades are ready to load Ex-work bulk Bitumen by truck. We explained with detail for each packing in Below:

Kind of Packing for Bitumen 30/45

The Bitumen 30/45 is packed in Different Major:

1. Jumbo Bag
2. Steel Drums
3. Flexi Tanks
4. Bulk in Trunk Tunker
5. Bulk in Bulk Vessel
6. Bulk in Bitutainer

1. Jumbo Bag

Jumbo bags, also known as Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) or big bags, are a popular choice for transporting Bitumen 30/45. These large, flexible bags are typically made from woven polypropylene and are designed to hold between 500 to 2,000 kg of bitumen.

Handling:

• 1MT Jumbo Bag with Pallet and Steel
  Cage:

Loading 20Ton in 20ft Container = 20Ton Net

• 1MT Jumbo Bag without Pallet and Steel
  Cage:

Loading 20Ton in 40ft Container = 20Ton Net

Advantages of Jumbo Bags in Bitumen 30/45:

• Cost-effective for bulk transportation
• Easy to handle with forklifts or cranes
• Stackable, maximizing storage space
• Reduced risk of contamination
• Suitable for both solid and semi-solid bitumen forms

2. Steel Drums

• 180kg New Steel Drum :
  Loading 110 Drum in 20ft Container=  19.80 Ton Net
• 150kg New Steel Drum:
  Loading 110Drum in 20ft Container=  16.50 Ton Net

Advantages of Steel Drums in Bitumen 30/45:

• Excellent protection against external elements
• Easy to handle and stack
• Suitable for smaller quantity orders
• Reusable or recyclable
• deal for long-term storage

3. Flexi Tanks

Flexi tanks, also known as flexibags or flexitanks, are large, flexible containers designed to fit inside standard 20-foot or 40-foot shipping containers. They are an excellent option for transporting large quantities of liquid or semi-liquid Bitumen 20/30.

Advantages of Flexi Tanks in Bitumen 30/45:

• High capacity (up to 24,000 liters in a 20-foot container)Cost-effective for bulk liquid transportation
• Eliminates the need for drum handling and cleaning
• Maximizes the use of container space
• Reduces packaging waste

4. Bulk in Truck Tanker

• Loading 24-25Ton in Bulk Tanker

5. Bulk in Bulk Vessel

• Loading 1,000-30,000 Ton in Bitumen
  Carrier Vessel

6. Bulk in Bitutainer

• Loading 25 Ton in Bitutainer

Safe Handling and Storage

• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when handling (i.e. gloves, eye protectors, etc.
• Maintain safe heating temperatures when using this product.
• Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
• Avoid breathing vapor, spray, or mists when applying.

Storage/Handling of Bitumen 20/30

• Store in upon Storage and Handling Recommendations: ended containers. Storage temperature limits
• 1°C – 50°C, for normal operations, such as blending and transferring liquid bitumen, temperatures
• Of 10°C – 40°C above the Minimum pumping temperature are recommended.

Specification of Bitumen 30/45