What Is Bitumen AH130?
Bitumen AH130 is a high-viscosity penetration-grade bitumen used in heavy-duty road construction and industrial waterproofing. The number 130 refers to its viscosity level (130 centistokes at 135°C), which means it is harder and more heat-resistant than lower grades like AH70 or AH90.
This type of bitumen is specially designed for regions with hot climates and for applications that demand high durability under stress. Its strong consistency makes it a top choice for highways, heavy traffic roads, bridges, and large industrial coatings.
Suppliers from the UAE and Turkey, such as Basekim, provide Bitumen AH130 in large volumes, ensuring global availability and reliable quality.
Why Choose Bitumen AH130?
Bitumen AH130 is a preferred material for engineers and contractors who need strength, durability, and heat resistance. Here are the top reasons to use it:
High Viscosity: Works extremely well in hot climates, resisting deformation.
Durable Under Heavy Traffic: Perfect for highways and main roads.
Waterproofing Ability: Protects concrete and steel structures from moisture.
Oxidation-Resistant: Withstands UV rays and weather conditions.
Long Service Life: Reduces the need for frequent repairs.
Moreover, its performance stays stable even under high loads. Therefore, it is ideal for large infrastructure projects. Additionally, it meets international standards, which enhances its reliability.
Key Applications of Bitumen AH130
Because of its high stiffness and strength, Bitumen AH130 is used in demanding construction tasks. Let’s explore its main uses:
1. Highways and Expressways
Bitumen AH130 is best suited for roads that carry heavy vehicles like trucks and buses. Its resistance to rutting and cracking makes it ideal for expressways, national highways, and urban beltways.
Consequently, it helps reduce maintenance costs while increasing the lifespan of the pavement. In addition, its consistent performance enhances road safety.
2. Bridge Decking and Elevated Roads
Bridges and flyovers require materials that can handle stress and resist movement. AH130’s hard texture allows it to perform well on concrete decks, especially in regions with intense sunlight.
As a result, bridges remain safe and stable over time. Furthermore, its low susceptibility to deformation makes it a reliable choice for elevated structures.
3. Industrial Flooring and Tank Foundations
In factories, Bitumen AH130 is used as a protective layer on floors, tank bases, and foundations. It protects surfaces from chemical spills, moisture, and mechanical impact.
In addition, its thermal stability ensures it performs well under extreme operational conditions. Therefore, it’s favored in industrial environments where reliability is crucial.
4. Airport Runways
Runways experience high loads from aircraft during landing and takeoff. Therefore, AH130 is often used in airport construction to provide strength, stability, and skid resistance.
Furthermore, it ensures long-lasting performance with minimal need for resurfacing. As a result, airport authorities prefer it for high-traffic terminals.
5. Waterproofing Infrastructure
Bitumen AH130 is effective in coating concrete surfaces in tunnels, basements, and reservoirs. When heated and applied, it creates a barrier that blocks water infiltration.
Thus, it helps maintain the integrity of buildings and prevents corrosion of metal reinforcements. Moreover, its adhesive properties improve the efficiency of waterproofing systems.
Technical Specifications of Bitumen AH130
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Penetration (25°C) | 40–60 dmm |
| Softening Point | ≥ 55°C |
| Viscosity (135°C) | ~130 cSt |
| Flash Point | ≥ 240°C |
| Solubility in TCE | ≥ 99.0% |
| Ductility (25°C) | ≥ 50 cm |
| Specific Gravity | ~1.03 |
These figures reflect its suitability for heavy-duty, high-temperature environments. Additionally, they align with international bitumen standards.
Supply from UAE and Turkey
Manufacturers in the UAE and Turkey produce Bitumen AH130 using high-quality refining techniques. Their modern facilities ensure consistency and compliance with international standards.
UAE Suppliers: Offer fast container shipping, competitive prices, and custom packaging.
Turkey Suppliers: Provide flexible supply volumes and faster delivery across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Among the trusted Turkish exporters is Basekim, a company known for delivering bitumen in steel drums, jumbo bags, and bulk tankers. Their logistics team also supports clients with proper documentation and transport assistance. Therefore, customers can expect timely and efficient service.
Packaging Options
To meet different project needs, Bitumen AH130 is available in various formats:
New Steel Drums (180–200 kg)
Jumbo Bags (solid form)
Bulk Tankers (for large-scale use)
Therefore, engineers can choose based on project scale, storage capacity, and application method. Moreover, packaging can be customized for specific project needs.
Storage and Handling Tips
To maintain product quality and safety:
Store away from direct sunlight
Use temperature-controlled storage if possible
Always heat bitumen using proper burners
Wear gloves and masks during handling
By following these precautions, you ensure consistent results and worker safety. Additionally, this extends the shelf life of the product.
FAQs for Bitumen AH130
Q1: What makes AH130 different from lower grades like AH70 or AH90?
A: AH130 is harder and more heat-resistant. It’s best for high-load and high-temperature areas.
Q2: Can I use Bitumen AH130 for waterproofing?
A: Yes. It forms an excellent water barrier on concrete and steel surfaces.
Q3: Is AH130 suitable for tropical regions?
A: Absolutely. It maintains shape and strength even in extreme heat.
Q4: How do I apply AH130?
A: Heat it to a flowable state and apply using standard paving or spraying equipment.
Q5: Who supplies AH130 internationally?
A: Suppliers in the UAE and Turkey, including Basekim, export AH130 globally.
Final Thoughts
Bitumen AH130 is a powerful and reliable material for high-performance construction. Because it resists heat, traffic stress, and moisture, it’s used in airports, bridges, highways, and industrial sites.
With strong supply networks in the UAE and Turkey, especially through trusted exporters like Basekim, AH130 is available in various packaging options and ready for delivery worldwide.
Whether you’re building a road, sealing a tank foundation, or waterproofing a tunnel, Bitumen AH130 delivers the strength and quality you need. Moreover, it helps reduce long-term maintenance and improves project durability.
