Bitumen 60/70 production method are different and also it known as penetration grade bitumen, is commonly used in road construction and other industrial applications. The production of bitumen 60/70 involves several steps, typically starting from crude oil. Here is an overview of the production method:
1. Distillation of Crude Oil
Primary Distillation: Crude oil is heated and separated into various fractions based on boiling points in a distillation column. The lighter fractions, such as gasoline and diesel, are separated from the heavier fractions.
Vacuum Distillation: The heavier fractions undergo further distillation under vacuum to prevent thermal cracking. This process yields heavy gas oil and vacuum residue.
2. Air Blowing
The vacuum residue is subjected to air blowing, where air is blown through the residue at high temperatures (typically 240-320°C). This process modifies the physical properties of the bitumen by increasing its viscosity and softening point, resulting in a more stable and durable product.
3. Penetration Test
The resulting bitumen is tested for its penetration grade. The penetration test measures the depth (in tenths of a millimeter) that a standard needle penetrates into the bitumen sample under specific conditions (25°C temperature, 100 grams load, and 5 seconds duration).
Bitumen 60/70 has a penetration value between 60 and 70, indicating its medium hardness.
4. Storage and Packaging
Once the desired penetration grade is achieved, the bitumen is stored in heated storage tanks to maintain its liquid state.
It is then packaged in drums or transported in bulk for further use in various applications.
Applications
Bitumen 60/70 is used in:
Road construction for asphalt concrete pavements.
Waterproofing in building construction.
Manufacturing of bitumen-based products like roofing felt and pipe coatings.
Quality Control
Quality control tests are conducted to ensure the bitumen meets industry standards. These tests include:
Softening point test.
Ductility test.
Viscosity test.
Flashpoint test.
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