Every time you leave the house there’s a big chance you’ll either drive on it, walk on it or ride on it, but unless you’re in the bitumen industry, how much do you really know about it?
We all know what it’s used for today, but throughout history civilisations around the world have used bitumen for a wide range of purposes.
What is bitumen?
Let’s start with the basics.
What is bitumen?
Bitumen can be found naturally in oil sand and pitch lake deposits, but most commonly it’s made by refining petroleum. This refining process is repeated many times, to remove the diesel and gasoline, and leaves the sticky black bitumen behind.
Bitumen contains a chemical composition of hydrocarbon molecules and various other elements including iron, calcium, sulphur and oxygen. Although keep in mind its composition can vary depending on its end-use.
The history of bitumen
Bitumen can be traced back to when Neanderthals were roaming the earth. It’s believed it was originally used by Neanderthals as an adhesive for tool making.
Later, bitumen was used in ancient Egypt. It’s suggested that the bitumen was sourced from the Dead Sea and used as part of the embalming process. The actual word mummy is taken from the Persian/Arabic word mummiya, which means bitumen or tar.
Throughout the year’s bitumen was used in various ways, but usually for construction, waterproofing boats and even jewellery making and art.
Due to its affordability, durability, structural strength, low sound emission and adhesivity, these days bitumen is mostly used for constructing roads, however, it’s also used for paths, driveways, runways flooring, tunnels, extensions roofing and waterproofing.
Bitumen is recyclable
Here’s a fun fact.
All around the globe, including Australia, bitumen is recycled. Recycled asphalt contractors collect it and crush it so it can be reused.
Bitumen transfer hoses – where to start
Here at Pacific Hoseflex, we’ve got all your bitumen hose and fitting needs covered. We understand how important it is for your hoses to be reliable so you can keep your business running smoothly and efficiently.
What hoses are best for bitumen?
You can count on our VITALFLEX® Bitumen hoses. They exceed the pressure and temperature requirements for bituminous materials and are available in Convoluted and Convoluted Rope Lagged
VITALFLEX® Convoluted
VITALFLEX® Convoluted Rope Lagged
We also stock tuck spray bar hoses, or
if you need something more specific, custom hoses can be made to order.
The HYTAR fittings are compatible with our VITALFLEX® Bitumen hoses, eliminating the chance of leaks and product wastage. We can supply separately the complete range of HYTAR fittings which are available in bronze, carbon steel and aluminium.
If you’d like to chat more about our bitumen hoses or find out how we can make one to order for your business, the professional team at Pacific Hoseflex is here to help. Call us on (QLD) 07 5593 4292 (WA) 08 9468 2840 or email salesqld@hoseflex.com.au or saleswa@hoseflex.com.au
