Bitumen 160/220
Bitumen 160/220 is a soft paving grade with a needle penetration of 160–220 dmm at 25°C, produced and tested to the European standard EN 12591. Its softer consistency keeps pavements flexible at lower temperatures, so it is favoured in cooler regions, for surface dressing, and as a base stock for emulsions and cutbacks.
Where Bitumen 160/220 is used
Penetration grade bitumen is classified by how far a standard needle sinks into the binder at 25°C, measured in tenths of a millimetre. A lower number means a harder bitumen.
- 01Surface dressing and chip seals
- 02Road construction in cold and temperate climates
- 03Feedstock for bitumen emulsions and cutbacks
- 04Low-traffic roads and flexible pavements
Conforms to EN 12591
Supplied to EN 12591 (paving grade bitumens). Each cargo is tested for penetration, softening point, flash point, solubility and resistance to hardening (RTFOT), with results on the certificate of analysis.
Typical specifications — Bitumen 160/220
| Property | Unit | Min | Max | Test method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penetration at 25°C | 0.1 mm | 160 | 220 | EN 1426 |
| Softening point (Ring & Ball) | °C | 35 | 43 | EN 1427 |
| Penetration index | – | -1.5 | 0.7 | EN 12591 Annex A |
| Fraass breaking point | °C | – | -15 | EN 12593 |
| Dynamic viscosity at 60°C | Pa·s | 30 | – | EN 12596 |
| Kinematic viscosity at 135°C | mm²/s | 135 | – | EN 12595 |
| Flash point (COC) | °C | 220 | – | EN ISO 2592 |
| Solubility | % m/m | 99.0 | – | EN 12592 |
| Resistance to hardening — RTFOT (EN 12607-1) | ||||
| Change in mass (absolute) | % | – | 1 | EN 12607-1 |
| Retained penetration | % | 37 | – | EN 1426 |
| Increase in softening point | °C | – | 11 | EN 1427 |
Typical values based on EN 12591. The binding specification for each cargo is the certificate of analysis issued at loading. Custom specifications are available on request.
Storing Bitumen 160/220
Temperature: Keep paving grades between roughly 140°C and 170°C in working tanks, and store at the lower end for long holds. Avoid repeated heat-up and cool-down cycles.
Tanks: Use insulated, heated steel tanks with a closed vent system. Dedicate a tank to one grade, or clean it fully between grades to avoid cross-contamination.
Safety: Water and hot bitumen must never meet, because it causes violent foaming. Use heat-resistant PPE, and keep a dry, ventilated area with no ignition sources near the vents.
Shelf life: Bitumen hardens slowly under prolonged heat. Rotate stock, avoid holding it at peak temperature, and re-test before use after long storage.
How we ship Bitumen 160/220
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Bitumen 160/220: common questions
What is Bitumen 160/220?+
Bitumen 160/220 is a soft paving grade with a needle penetration of 160–220 dmm at 25°C, produced and tested to the European standard EN 12591. Its softer consistency keeps pavements flexible at lower temperatures, so it is favoured in cooler regions, for surface dressing, and as a base stock for emulsions and cutbacks.
What is Bitumen 160/220 used for?+
Bitumen 160/220 is mainly used for: surface dressing and chip seals; road construction in cold and temperate climates; feedstock for bitumen emulsions and cutbacks; low-traffic roads and flexible pavements.
Which standard does WGV's Bitumen 160/220 meet?+
Supplied to EN 12591 (paving grade bitumens). Each cargo is tested for penetration, softening point, flash point, solubility and resistance to hardening (RTFOT), with results on the certificate of analysis.
How is Bitumen 160/220 shipped?+
WGV Oil Trading ships Bitumen 160/220 by steel drums, jumbo bags, bitutainer or bulk, on FOB, CIF, CFR or DAP terms. Every cargo is inspected at the load port by SGS, Intertek or an equivalent independent inspector.
How do I get a price for Bitumen 160/220?+
Send the quantity, destination port, preferred Incoterms and timing through the quote form on this page, by WhatsApp on +34 663 192 105, or by email to sales@wgvoiltrading.com. WGV Oil Trading replies with a written offer the same day. Payment is by documentary LC, SBLC or TT against documents.