Bitumen 30/40 for Road Construction

Bitumen 30/40 stands at the harder end of the penetration-grade spectrum, yet it still delivers enough workability for modern paving projects. With a penetration range of 30 – 40 dmm and a softening point between 55 °C and 63 °C, this binder resists rutting, thermal cracking, and heavy axle loads better than many softer grades. Because road engineers need reliability and consistency, they frequently specify bitumen 30/40 for expressways, airport runways, and industrial yard surfacing.

Understanding of Bitumen 30/40

First, penetration tells us how deeply a standard needle sinks into the binder under controlled conditions. Lower numbers—like those for bitumen 30/40—mean the material is stiffer and less prone to deformation under traffic. Next, the softening point reveals the temperature at which the binder starts to flow; a value above 55 °C keeps the pavement stable in scorching summers. Together, these two metrics confirm that bitumen 30/40 remains firm under load yet displays predictable thermoplastic behavior when heated during mixing and compaction.

Production Process and Quality Assurance

Manufacturers first produce bitumen 30/40 through vacuum-bottom distillation of crude oil. Then, they blow hot air into the material to change its properties. As a result, the process removes light hydrocarbons and increases the asphaltene level, which makes the bitumen thicker. After that, trusted producers carry out quality checks on each batch to test specific gravity, penetration, softening point, ductility, flash point, and solubility. In addition, they follow well-known standards like ASTM D5, D36, D113, D70, and EN 12591. Furthermore, independent inspectors often visit the loading site to observe the sampling and sealing process. This way, every shipment is fully traceable from the refinery to the final jobsite.

International Classification: HS Code and CAS Number of Bitumen 30/40

To ensure seamless customs clearance and global trade compliance, bitumen 30/40 is categorized under HS Code 27132000, which refers to petroleum bitumen. Additionally, it is registered with the CAS Number 8052-42-4, identifying it as a derivative of crude petroleum used primarily in road construction and asphalt paving. These international classification codes are essential for exporters, importers, and customs authorities to correctly document, track, and regulate the movement of this industrial-grade binder across borders.

Performance Benefits in Hot-Mix Asphalt

Because bitumen 30/40 offers high stiffness, pavement designers can lower the binder content in dense-graded asphalt mixes without sacrificing durability. As a result, contractors enjoy:

• Reduced rutting under slow-moving or stationary loads at toll plazas and intersections.

• Improved fatigue resistance on heavily trafficked highways thanks to a balanced visco-elastic profile.

• Extended service life and longer maintenance cycles, which lower lifecycle costs for asset owners.

Moreover, the grade bonds well with crushed aggregates, minimizing stripping even in humid or coastal climates.

Standard Technical Specifications

These figures demonstrate the balance of hardness, thermal stability, and elasticity that makes bitumen 30/40 the go-to choice for high-stress applications.

Safe Handling, Storage, and Environmental Notes

Always store bitumen 30/40 in clean, dry carbon-steel tanks equipped with level gauges and agitators. Maintain bulk temperature between 140 °C and 160 °C to prevent oxidation without compromising pumpability. During loading, operators must wear insulated gloves, face shields, and heat-resistant clothing. Spills solidify quickly; therefore, crews should isolate the area, allow the material to cool, then remove it mechanically to avoid environmental contamination. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) classify bitumen as non-hazardous, yet proper ventilation is vital because hot fumes can irritate the respiratory tract.

Choosing a Trusted Bitumen 30/40 Supplier

Finally, sourcing bitumen 30/40 from ISO-certified refineries or trading houses with a track record of on-time delivery shields your project from costly delays. 

By partnering with a reputable vendor, procurement teams secure consistent quality, transparent pricing, and reliable after-sales support. In turn, project owners gain peace of mind knowing their pavements will stand up to climate extremes and heavy traffic for decades.