Bitumen 20/30
Bitumen 20/30 is a hard paving grade with a needle penetration of 20–30 dmm at 25°C, produced and tested to the European standard EN 12591. Its stiffness gives excellent resistance to rutting and deformation, making it a strong choice for hot climates, heavy and slow-moving traffic, and base and binder courses.
Where Bitumen 20/30 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.
- 01Base and binder courses on highways and heavy-traffic roads
- 02Pavements in hot climates where rutting resistance is critical
- 03Airport aprons, ports, container yards and industrial hardstanding
- 04High-modulus asphalt and heavy-duty pavement designs
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 20/30
| Property | Unit | Min | Max | Test method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penetration at 25°C | 0.1 mm | 20 | 30 | EN 1426 |
| Softening point (Ring & Ball) | °C | 55 | 63 | EN 1427 |
| Penetration index | – | -1.5 | 0.7 | EN 12591 Annex A |
| Dynamic viscosity at 60°C | Pa·s | 440 | – | EN 12596 |
| Kinematic viscosity at 135°C | mm²/s | 530 | – | EN 12595 |
| Flash point (COC) | °C | 240 | – | EN ISO 2592 |
| Solubility | % m/m | 99.0 | – | EN 12592 |
| Resistance to hardening — RTFOT (EN 12607-1) | ||||
| Change in mass (absolute) | % | – | 0.5 | EN 12607-1 |
| Retained penetration | % | 55 | – | EN 1426 |
| Increase in softening point | °C | – | 8 | 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 20/30
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 20/30
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Bitumen 20/30: common questions
What is Bitumen 20/30?+
Bitumen 20/30 is a hard paving grade with a needle penetration of 20–30 dmm at 25°C, produced and tested to the European standard EN 12591. Its stiffness gives excellent resistance to rutting and deformation, making it a strong choice for hot climates, heavy and slow-moving traffic, and base and binder courses.
What is Bitumen 20/30 used for?+
Bitumen 20/30 is mainly used for: base and binder courses on highways and heavy-traffic roads; pavements in hot climates where rutting resistance is critical; airport aprons, ports, container yards and industrial hardstanding; high-modulus asphalt and heavy-duty pavement designs.
Which standard does WGV's Bitumen 20/30 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 20/30 shipped?+
WGV Oil Trading ships Bitumen 20/30 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 20/30?+
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.