Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG) For India
Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG) For India
Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG) is a standard grade Bitumen usually used as a Paving Grade Bitumen suitable for road construction and for the production of asphalt pavements with superior properties. This grade of Bitumen is mainly used in the manufacture of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses and possesses characteristics and qualities unique and quite different from other agents. This Product mostly used in India for Road Construction.
In this Article, We’ll Explain about Grades, Descriptions of each Grade and their Specifications and Difference.
Description of Viscosity Grade Bitumen
They achieve very flexible and tenacious connections with other materials due mainly to the viscoelastic response of bitumen, whose behavior depends on how fast charges are applied. VG Bitumen has 4 Different Grades such as VG-10, VG-20, VG 30 and VG-40. The classification ranges from VG-10 (softest) to VG-40 (hardest), with higher numbers indicating bitumen that is more suitable for hotter climates or high-traffic areas. Viscosity grade bitumen’s have a thermoplastic property which causes the material to soften at high temperatures and to harden at lower temperatures.
This unique temperature/ viscosity relationship is important when determining the performance parameters such as the adhesion, rheology, durability and application temperatures of bitumen. In the Viscosity Graded Bitumen specifications further, special emphasis is placed on the Bitumen ductility.
Why are most usages of VG Bitumen for India?
Because India it provides more consistent performance and durability in the country’s varied climatic conditions compared to traditional penetration-graded bitumen. India experiences a wide range of temperatures, from the extreme heat in the summer to the cold winters in some regions, and VG Bitumen’s viscosity grading helps ensure that the bitumen remains effective across these conditions.
For this reason, Viscosity Grade Bitumen is increasingly favored in India for its ability to provide consistent performance in varying climatic conditions, resulting in more durable roads and reduced maintenance costs.
What is Difference Between Penetration Grade Bitumen and Viscosity Grade Bitumen?
The difference between penetration grade bitumen and viscosity grade bitumen VG-10 VG-20 VG-30 VG-40 is that the penetration grade classification is based on the Penetration value in 25. C, while the VG system is based on the Viscosity value in both 60 ? C and 135? C shows it is suitable for both low and high temperatures so the bitumen behavior in different thermal conditions can be predicted well.
First, the penetration of bitumen is measured at 25. C which is the average temperature, but the results of the test are not reliable in hot weather, so they measure the viscosity of bitumen at 60. C and 135? C. The tests tell us that:
- VG bitumen is suitable for a wide range of temperatures; 25 ?C for fatigue cracking and 135 ?C for construction, also temperature susceptibility can be determined.
- Less number of tests save time and costs; according to IS, it has only 7 tests while penetration has 14 tests.
- Longer durability: the pavement made from VG Bitumen will have better performance because the Viscosity value at 135?C gives a sufficient idea about mixing and compaction temperature and as a result pavement life is improved.
- Any two samples of the same VG bitumen would give similar rutting performance in hot summer unlike the penetration grade
- The minimum specified kinematic viscosity value at 135 ?C helps to minimize the potential of tender mixes during construction
- VG bitumen is suitable for areas with high traffic loads
Advantages of Viscosity Grade Bitumen
Viscosity grade bitumen, a modern approach to bitumen classification, offers several advantages over the traditional penetration grade system:
Improved Performance Prediction
- Consistent rutting performance: Bitumen with the same viscosity grade exhibits similar rutting behavior in hot weather, ensuring reliable pavement performance.
- Better fatigue cracking resistance: Minimum penetration values are maintained to guarantee acceptable performance in terms of fatigue cracking at average service temperatures.
Enhanced Construction Efficiency
- Optimized mixing and compaction: Specified kinematic viscosity at 135°C helps prevent tender mixes during construction, leading to smoother and more durable pavements.
- Reduced testing: The viscosity grading system requires fewer tests compared to penetration grade, saving time and resources.
Other Benefits
- Wider temperature applicability: Viscosity grade bitumen can be used in a broader range of temperatures, making it suitable for various climatic conditions.
- Better correlation with bitumen properties: Viscosity is a fundamental engineering parameter that directly relates to bitumen’s behavior, providing a more accurate assessment of its performance.
Specific Advantages of Different Viscosity Grades
- VG 10: Suitable for temperatures below 30°C, offers higher penetration compared to VG 30 and VG 40.
- VG 30: Offers a balance of properties for various climatic conditions.
- VG 40: Ideal for higher temperatures and heavy traffic loads.
In essence, viscosity grade bitumen provides a more reliable, efficient, and performance-oriented approach to bitumen selection for road construction.
Viscosity Grade Bitumen Production Process
The production of Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG Bitumen) involves several stages, from the extraction of crude oil to refining and grading based on viscosity. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Crude Oil Extraction: The first step involves extracting crude oil from oil wells. This crude oil consists of various types of hydrocarbons, including the heavy fractions that form bitumen.
- Distillation: The extracted crude oil undergoes atmospheric distillation in a refinery. This process heats the oil, causing different fractions to evaporate and condense at different temperatures. The lighter fractions, such as gasoline and diesel, are removed at lower temperatures, while the heavy bitumen fraction is left behind.
- Vacuum Distillation: The remaining heavy oil from the atmospheric distillation unit is then subjected to a second distillation process under vacuum conditions. This step enables the removal of the remaining lighter fractions without causing thermal cracking of the bitumen.
- Air Blowing: To achieve desired properties, the vacuum residue is then subjected to an air-blowing process, where hot air is passed through the residue. This procedure induces certain reactions that enhance the bitumen’s physical and performance properties, allowing it to withstand various weather and load conditions.
- Viscosity Grading: The final stage of the process is the grading of the bitumen based on its viscosity. The bitumen is heated to a standard temperature of 60°C, and its viscosity is measured in centistokes (cSt). Depending on the viscosity, the bitumen is categorized into different grades, such as VG10, VG20, VG30, or VG40.
Different Types of VG Bitumen and their Specification
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 10 (VG 10)
As we said the VG Bitumen 10 is a softest grade in VG Bitumen grades, Also this Grade of VG mostly used in regions with colder climates or where low-temperature performance is a priority. In India, VG-10 Bitumen is often used for paving roads in areas with lighter traffic and less severe temperature variations.
VG Bitumen 10 Advantages
- Workable with low temperature: VG Bitumen has a lower viscosity and softer than another grades, making it ideal for use in colder regions.
- Paving Asphalt: Viscosity Grade Bitumen 10 in India is a suitable grade for surface paving asphalt. VG-10 provides good adhesion between aggregates and the road surface, enhancing skid resistance and protecting the pavement from water ingress and wear.
Specification of VG Bitumen 10
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 800 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 250 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 80-100 | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C |
Min 40 |
ASTM D36 |
| Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ◦C | ◦C | Max 4 | ASTM D4402 |
| Ductility at 25 ◦C , after thin film oven test | Cm | Min 75 | ASTM D113 |
What is VG Bitumen 20?
VG Bitumen 20 is slightly harder than VG Bitumen 10, It has good performance in both hot and cold conditions. it suitable for use in moderate climates with less extreme temperature variations. In India, VG-20 Bitumen is often chosen for various road construction and maintenance projects.
VG Bitumen 20 Advantages
- Improved Road Performance: VG Bitumen 20 is a excellent grade for resistance to temperature such as cracking in cold weather and rutting in hot weather.
- Better Load-Bearing Capacity: VG-20 provides a suitable balance of hardness and flexibility, allowing it to effectively distribute the load from vehicular traffic across the pavement layers.
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 20 Specification
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 1600 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 300 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 60-80 | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 45 | ASTM D36 |
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 30
VG Bitumen 30 is the most commonly used grade for road construction in India, also It’s one of the harder grade in Viscosity Grade Bitumen. VG-30 provides excellent resistance to rutting and deformation under high temperatures, ensuring that the pavement remains stable and smooth even in intense heat.
VG Bitumen 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 | 40-50 | AST M D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 47 | ASTM D36 |
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 40 in India
VG Bitumen 40 is the hardest and most viscous grade of viscosity grade bitumen, VG-40 an ideal choice for heavy-duty applications where maximum road performance and longevity are crucial, reducing the need for frequent repairs and minimizing maintenance costs. It’s well-suited for areas where the pavement is exposed to high ambient temperatures and heavy, high-speed traffic. Also can be used this Grade instead of Bitumen Penetration 40/50.
Specification of VG Bitumen 40
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 3200 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 400 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 40-60 | AST M D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 25 | ASTM D 36 |
Supplier of Different Grades of VG Bitumen for India
RAHA Bitumen Co. is one of the market leaders in manufacturing, supplying, and exporting different types of bitumen products with excellent quality. We strive to offer the best prices for different grades of bitumen, including VG Bitumen, in line with international standards.
If you are interested in viscosity-graded bitumen for India, please contact us!
Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG) is a standard grade Bitumen usually used as a Paving Grade Bitumen suitable for road construction and for the production of asphalt pavements with superior properties. This grade of Bitumen is mainly used in the manufacture of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses and possesses characteristics and qualities unique and quite different from other agents. This Product mostly used in India for Road Construction.
In this Article, We’ll Explain about Grades, Descriptions of each Grade and their Specifications and Difference.
Description of Viscosity Grade Bitumen
They achieve very flexible and tenacious connections with other materials due mainly to the viscoelastic response of bitumen, whose behavior depends on how fast charges are applied. VG Bitumen has 4 Different Grades such as VG-10, VG-20, VG 30 and VG-40. The classification ranges from VG-10 (softest) to VG-40 (hardest), with higher numbers indicating bitumen that is more suitable for hotter climates or high-traffic areas. Viscosity grade bitumen’s have a thermoplastic property which causes the material to soften at high temperatures and to harden at lower temperatures.
This unique temperature/ viscosity relationship is important when determining the performance parameters such as the adhesion, rheology, durability and application temperatures of bitumen. In the Viscosity Graded Bitumen specifications further, special emphasis is placed on the Bitumen ductility.
Why are most usages of VG Bitumen for India?
Because India it provides more consistent performance and durability in the country’s varied climatic conditions compared to traditional penetration-graded bitumen. India experiences a wide range of temperatures, from the extreme heat in the summer to the cold winters in some regions, and VG Bitumen’s viscosity grading helps ensure that the bitumen remains effective across these conditions.
For this reason, Viscosity Grade Bitumen is increasingly favored in India for its ability to provide consistent performance in varying climatic conditions, resulting in more durable roads and reduced maintenance costs.
What is Difference Between Penetration Grade Bitumen and Viscosity Grade Bitumen?
The difference between penetration grade bitumen and viscosity grade bitumen VG-10 VG-20 VG-30 VG-40 is that the penetration grade classification is based on the Penetration value in 25. C, while the VG system is based on the Viscosity value in both 60 ? C and 135? C shows it is suitable for both low and high temperatures so the bitumen behavior in different thermal conditions can be predicted well.
First, the penetration of bitumen is measured at 25. C which is the average temperature, but the results of the test are not reliable in hot weather, so they measure the viscosity of bitumen at 60. C and 135? C. The tests tell us that:
- VG bitumen is suitable for a wide range of temperatures; 25 ?C for fatigue cracking and 135 ?C for construction, also temperature susceptibility can be determined.
- Less number of tests save time and costs; according to IS, it has only 7 tests while penetration has 14 tests.
- Longer durability: the pavement made from VG Bitumen will have better performance because the Viscosity value at 135?C gives a sufficient idea about mixing and compaction temperature and as a result pavement life is improved.
- Any two samples of the same VG bitumen would give similar rutting performance in hot summer unlike the penetration grade
- The minimum specified kinematic viscosity value at 135 ?C helps to minimize the potential of tender mixes during construction
- VG bitumen is suitable for areas with high traffic loads
Advantages of Viscosity Grade Bitumen
Viscosity grade bitumen, a modern approach to bitumen classification, offers several advantages over the traditional penetration grade system:
Improved Performance Prediction
- Consistent rutting performance: Bitumen with the same viscosity grade exhibits similar rutting behavior in hot weather, ensuring reliable pavement performance.
- Better fatigue cracking resistance: Minimum penetration values are maintained to guarantee acceptable performance in terms of fatigue cracking at average service temperatures.
Enhanced Construction Efficiency
- Optimized mixing and compaction: Specified kinematic viscosity at 135°C helps prevent tender mixes during construction, leading to smoother and more durable pavements.
- Reduced testing: The viscosity grading system requires fewer tests compared to penetration grade, saving time and resources.
Other Benefits
- Wider temperature applicability: Viscosity grade bitumen can be used in a broader range of temperatures, making it suitable for various climatic conditions.
- Better correlation with bitumen properties: Viscosity is a fundamental engineering parameter that directly relates to bitumen’s behavior, providing a more accurate assessment of its performance.
Specific Advantages of Different Viscosity Grades
- VG 10: Suitable for temperatures below 30°C, offers higher penetration compared to VG 30 and VG 40.
- VG 30: Offers a balance of properties for various climatic conditions.
- VG 40: Ideal for higher temperatures and heavy traffic loads.
In essence, viscosity grade bitumen provides a more reliable, efficient, and performance-oriented approach to bitumen selection for road construction.
Viscosity Grade Bitumen Production Process
The production of Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG Bitumen) involves several stages, from the extraction of crude oil to refining and grading based on viscosity. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Crude Oil Extraction: The first step involves extracting crude oil from oil wells. This crude oil consists of various types of hydrocarbons, including the heavy fractions that form bitumen.
- Distillation: The extracted crude oil undergoes atmospheric distillation in a refinery. This process heats the oil, causing different fractions to evaporate and condense at different temperatures. The lighter fractions, such as gasoline and diesel, are removed at lower temperatures, while the heavy bitumen fraction is left behind.
- Vacuum Distillation: The remaining heavy oil from the atmospheric distillation unit is then subjected to a second distillation process under vacuum conditions. This step enables the removal of the remaining lighter fractions without causing thermal cracking of the bitumen.
- Air Blowing: To achieve desired properties, the vacuum residue is then subjected to an air-blowing process, where hot air is passed through the residue. This procedure induces certain reactions that enhance the bitumen’s physical and performance properties, allowing it to withstand various weather and load conditions.
- Viscosity Grading: The final stage of the process is the grading of the bitumen based on its viscosity. The bitumen is heated to a standard temperature of 60°C, and its viscosity is measured in centistokes (cSt). Depending on the viscosity, the bitumen is categorized into different grades, such as VG10, VG20, VG30, or VG40.
Different Types of VG Bitumen and their Specification
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 10 (VG 10)
As we said the VG Bitumen 10 is a softest grade in VG Bitumen grades, Also this Grade of VG mostly used in regions with colder climates or where low-temperature performance is a priority. In India, VG-10 Bitumen is often used for paving roads in areas with lighter traffic and less severe temperature variations.
VG Bitumen 10 Advantages
- Workable with low temperature: VG Bitumen has a lower viscosity and softer than another grades, making it ideal for use in colder regions.
- Paving Asphalt: Viscosity Grade Bitumen 10 in India is a suitable grade for surface paving asphalt. VG-10 provides good adhesion between aggregates and the road surface, enhancing skid resistance and protecting the pavement from water ingress and wear.
Specification of VG Bitumen 10
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 800 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 250 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 80-100 | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C |
Min 40 |
ASTM D36 |
| Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ◦C | ◦C | Max 4 | ASTM D4402 |
| Ductility at 25 ◦C , after thin film oven test | Cm | Min 75 | ASTM D113 |
What is VG Bitumen 20?
VG Bitumen 20 is slightly harder than VG Bitumen 10, It has good performance in both hot and cold conditions. it suitable for use in moderate climates with less extreme temperature variations. In India, VG-20 Bitumen is often chosen for various road construction and maintenance projects.
VG Bitumen 20 Advantages
- Improved Road Performance: VG Bitumen 20 is a excellent grade for resistance to temperature such as cracking in cold weather and rutting in hot weather.
- Better Load-Bearing Capacity: VG-20 provides a suitable balance of hardness and flexibility, allowing it to effectively distribute the load from vehicular traffic across the pavement layers.
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 20 Specification
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 1600 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 300 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 60-80 | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 45 | ASTM D36 |
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 30
VG Bitumen 30 is the most commonly used grade for road construction in India, also It’s one of the harder grade in Viscosity Grade Bitumen. VG-30 provides excellent resistance to rutting and deformation under high temperatures, ensuring that the pavement remains stable and smooth even in intense heat.
VG Bitumen 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 | 40-50 | AST M D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 47 | ASTM D36 |
Viscosity Grade Bitumen 40 in India
VG Bitumen 40 is the hardest and most viscous grade of viscosity grade bitumen, VG-40 an ideal choice for heavy-duty applications where maximum road performance and longevity are crucial, reducing the need for frequent repairs and minimizing maintenance costs. It’s well-suited for areas where the pavement is exposed to high ambient temperatures and heavy, high-speed traffic. Also can be used this Grade instead of Bitumen Penetration 40/50.
Specification of VG Bitumen 40
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 3200 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 400 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 40-60 | AST M D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 25 | ASTM D 36 |
Supplier of Different Grades of VG Bitumen for India
RAHA Bitumen Co. is one of the market leaders in manufacturing, supplying, and exporting different types of bitumen products with excellent quality. We strive to offer the best prices for different grades of bitumen, including VG Bitumen, in line with international standards.
If you are interested in viscosity-graded bitumen for India, please contact us!
