Bitumen 40/60
Bitumen 40/60 is a medium paving grade with a needle penetration of 40–60 dmm at 25°C, produced and tested to the European standard EN 12591. It balances stiffness and flexibility, which is why it is one of the most widely specified grades for hot-mix asphalt in warm and temperate climates.
Where Bitumen 40/60 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.
- 01Hot-mix asphalt wearing and binder courses
- 02National and urban road construction and resurfacing
- 03Road maintenance and overlay programmes
- 04Industrial and commercial paving
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 40/60
| Property | Unit | Min | Max | Test method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penetration at 25°C | 0.1 mm | 40 | 60 | EN 1426 |
| Softening point (Ring & Ball) | °C | 48 | 56 | EN 1427 |
| Penetration index | – | -1.5 | 0.7 | EN 12591 Annex A |
| Fraass breaking point | °C | – | -7 | EN 12593 |
| Dynamic viscosity at 60°C | Pa·s | 175 | – | EN 12596 |
| Kinematic viscosity at 135°C | mm²/s | 325 | – | EN 12595 |
| Flash point (COC) | °C | 230 | – | 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 | % | 50 | – | EN 1426 |
| Increase in softening point | °C | – | 9 | 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 40/60
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 40/60
Get a price for Bitumen 40/60
Tell us the quantity and destination port. We'll send you a written offer today.
- No cost to ask
- FOB · CIF · CFR · DAP
- LC, SBLC or TT against documents
Bitumen 40/60: common questions
What is Bitumen 40/60?+
Bitumen 40/60 is a medium paving grade with a needle penetration of 40–60 dmm at 25°C, produced and tested to the European standard EN 12591. It balances stiffness and flexibility, which is why it is one of the most widely specified grades for hot-mix asphalt in warm and temperate climates.
What is Bitumen 40/60 used for?+
Bitumen 40/60 is mainly used for: hot-mix asphalt wearing and binder courses; national and urban road construction and resurfacing; road maintenance and overlay programmes; industrial and commercial paving.
Which standard does WGV's Bitumen 40/60 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 40/60 shipped?+
WGV Oil Trading ships Bitumen 40/60 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 40/60?+
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.