Types of Bitumen Packages: Comparison + Which One Is Better!

What are the types of bitumen packages? Bitumen manufacturers use various packaging types, including jumbo bags, poly bags, steel drums, flexi bags, corrugated plastic boxes, and flexitanks. Each of these packages has its own advantages. For example, jumbo bags are the most environmentally friendly. On the other hand, faster transportation is the main advantage of poly bags.

Therefore, each bitumen packaging has its own benefits and specific features. If you want to learn more about bulk bitumen transportation and distribution methods, Keep reading this article from Iran ETrade blog, your go-to source for expert insights on bitumen prices.

Types of Bitumen Packages

There are various types of bitumen packages used for transportation and distribution, including the following:

1. Bitumen Packaging in Steel Drums

One of the most common packaging choices for bitumen products is steel drums, which comply with international standards for bitumen transportation.

Therefore, If you want to protect bitumen from environmental factors like pollution and moisture, drum packaging is the best option. Among all bitumen transportation methods, steel drums are the most reliable and efficient.

Types of Steel Drums for Bitumen

Bitumen manufacturers load bitumen into steel drums with various capacities, including:

• 180 kg drums (98 cm height)
• 150 kg drums (83 cm height)
• 220 kg drums (98 cm height)

Advantages and Challenges of Using Steel Drums

Although steel drums are a safe and reliable option among different types of bitumen packages, they come with their own set of advantages and challenges:

Advantages:

• Resistant to impact and pressure
• Usable in various temperature and humidity conditions
• Preserves the odor, color, and quality of bitumen
• Environmentally friendly and reusable

Challenges:

• Higher final product cost due to drum manufacturing expenses
• Requires technical knowledge and specialized equipment for production and use
• Not suitable for packaging certain specific materials

Key Points About Steel Drum Types of Bitumen Packages

When using steel drums for bitumen packages, do not fill the drum completely to allow for bitumen expansion. Also, assess the drums for leaks, as repeated use may cause this issue. Moreover, proper handling and usage of the drum will extend its lifespan.

2. Bitumen Packaging in Jumbo Bags

If you need to transport a large volume of bitumen, jumbo bag packaging is a suitable option. Manufacturers make these jumbo bags from special reinforcing materials, allowing for bitumen to be transported safely and without leakage.

Types of Jumbo Bags

Jumbo bags come in different types, which include:

Types of Bitumen Packages: Caged Jumbo Bag

The caged jumbo bag combines the high capacity of a jumbo bag with the protection of a metal cage which prevents punctures and deformation.

Therefore, the caged jumbo bag is one of the safe and cost-effective types of bitumen packages for transporting and storing bitumen under harsh conditions and over long distances.

Structured Jumbo Bag

The structured jumbo bag has a reinforced framework that maintains its shape during filling and transportation of bitumen.

By reducing the risk of leakage or damage, this method is a safe and reliable option for bulk bitumen transport and storage over long distances and for heavy applications.

Self-Standing Jumbo Bag

Among different types of bitumen packages, the self-standing jumbo bag has a stable and sturdy structure that does not require external support.

This makes transporting and storing bulk bitumen easier and safer. It also helps save space and makes it an ideal choice for long-distance transportation and warehousing.

Advantages of Using Jumbo Bags for Bitumen Packaging

Jumbo bag packaging is recyclable and biodegradable, and it speeds up the loading and unloading of bitumen. Additionally, this method helps you save energy during the loading and unloading processes.

Furthermore, jumbo bags have a lower temperature compared to other methods, which helps preserve the quality of the bitumen more effectively.

Moreover, by eliminating the metal components in its structure and using suitable alternative materials, this method also reduces the cost of various types of bitumen packaging for export.

How to Transport Jumbo Bags

To transport bitumen using jumbo bags, you have several options:

• Using a forklift truck: In this method, a forklift truck grips the handles of the jumbo bag and lifts it for transport.
• Using a crane: Ideal for transporting both the jumbo bag and the cargo simultaneously at ports and customs.
• Using a hoist: Suitable for quick and easy movement of bitumen using fixed or mobile hoisting systems.
• Special handles: These include tunnel handles, side loops, perimeter loops, and one-piece or two-piece caps, allowing jumbo bag packaging to be customized based on customer requirements.

Jumbo Bag Unloading Method

Unloading bitumen from jumbo bag packaging has two methods: one with a discharge spout, which is safer, more controllable, and suitable for multiple uses. The other is with a flat bottom, which is usually ideal for single-use and offers good resistance in high volumes.

Performance of Bitumen Jumbo Bag

Due to strict bitumen import regulations in more developed countries, jumbo bags are more suitable among different types of bitumen packages.

This is because of its trapezoidal or conical design, which helps maintain the shape of bitumen at high temperatures and makes its transport and storage more efficient.

3. Bulk Bitumen Packaging

If you’re looking for a cost-effective bitumen packaging method, bulk packaging is the best choice. Generally, this method only requires specialized trucks for transporting the bitumen.

4. Poly Bag : Another Type of Bitumen Packaging

One of the simplest types of bitumen packages is the poly bag method. This packaging is made from polymer materials, making it an excellent choice for easy transportation and optimal storage of bitumen.

Types of Poly Bags

Polybag packaging for bitumen has the following types:

• Cubic model with a storage capacity of up to 250 kg of bitumen
• A one-ton model capable of holding 1,000 kg of bitumen
• Strapped model, which can be mounted in a metal frame for easier handling
• Trapezoidal-shaped model

Advantages of Using Poly Bags

Choosing a poly bag among different types of bitumen packages has several benefits:

• Faster transportation, loading, and unloading of bitumen
• Lower energy consumption during transport and handling
• Reduced packaging costs
• Higher load capacity and efficiency
• Cleanliness at both loading and delivery sites
• Greater resistance to heat and high temperatures
• Easy transport at an affordable cost

Poly Bag Transportation and Appearance

Transporting poly bag bitumen is possible by using metal racks. These racks securely hold the bags and protect them from damage or leakage.

Appearance of Poly Bag Packages

The appearance of poly bag packages is as follows:

• Cubic or pouch-shaped model typically used for packaging 250 kg of bitumen
• One-ton cubic model, one of the most common and cost-effective types of poly bags
• A strapped model with a metal frame; the straps help it stand upright and make it easier to transport in high-temperature areas
• The trapezoidal model is highly popular compared to the strapped type due to its static stability and affordable price

5. Bitumen Packaging with Plastic Carton (Carton Plast)

The carton plast method uses lightweight and durable plastic sheets for bitumen packaging. It is a suitable option for transporting solid or semi-solid bitumen on a small to medium scale.

6. Types of Bitumen Packaging in Flexi Bags

Among different types of bitumen packages, the flexi bag method of bitumen packaging is economical and safe. In this method, distributors transport bitumen in sea containers using durable double-layer bags that can withstand temperatures up to 120°C.

7. Bituplast Packaging: A Durable Type of Bitumen Packaging

The Bituplast packaging features a lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly design. These qualities make it an innovative method for transporting and storing bitumen, preserving its quality while reducing waste generation, and making it suitable for industrial and construction applications.

8. Bitubag – Suitable for Bitumen Packaging

This method produces minimal waste and allows for easy handling. Additionally, the Bitubag is environmentally friendly and a cost-effective option.

9. Flexitank: A Type of Export Bitumen Packaging

In these types of bitumen packages, a durable multi-layer bag is placed inside a 20-foot container, allowing the transport of 20 tons of bitumen while maintaining temperature and high safety standards.

Which Bitumen Packaging Method Is Best?

Jumbo bags are a good option in terms of cost-effectiveness, ease of transport, and the ability to print information. However, drums have greater safety, along with a more formal appearance and reusability.

Therefore, choosing between them depends on your priorities—whether it’s cost, safety, appearance, or convenience.

Cost of Different Types of Bitumen Packages

The price of bitumen packaging varies depending on the type. For example, bulk packaging is the cheapest option, while drum, bag, and carton plast packaging are more expensive due to higher raw material usage.

Challenges of Bitumen Packaging

Various types of bitumen packages have made transportation much easier, but they come with their challenges, including:

• Recycling costs: High recycling expenses due to the difficulty and cost of recycling metal drums.
• Environmental impacts: The use of plastic materials in bitumen packaging leads to long decomposition times and potential environmental pollution.
• Difficult transportation: Heavy bitumen packaging complicates handling and transport, increasing costs and operational complexity.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Bitumen Packaging Types

For a concise yet detailed overview of various types of bitumen packaging, you can refer to this table:

Comparing Different Types Of Bitumen Packages

You can see the aspects of transportation, usage, cost, waste, and environmental impacts of different types of bitumen packages in this table:

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Bitumen Packages

You may have the following questions about the different types of bitumen packages:

What is the material of polybag packaging?

Polybag bitumen packaging is primarily made from polymer materials.

What are the types of export bitumen packaging?

Export bitumen packaging has various types, including: metal drum, jumbo bag, bulk, polybag, carton plast, bitubag, and flexibag.

What are the most important and common types of bitumen packaging?

Metal drums, jumbo bags, and polybags are among the most important and common types of bitumen packages.

What is the advantage of packaging bitumen in steel drums?

Steel drum packaging is designed for high resistance to damage and suitability for long-distance transportation.

What is the temperature resistance of jumbo bag packaging?

Jumbo bag packaging for bitumen consists of two layers, with both the outer and inner layers made of nano nylon, allowing it to withstand temperatures up to 120 degrees Celsius.

Are bitumen packaging types suitable for long-term storage?

Different types of bitumen packages vary in their resistance to weather conditions. Metal barrels, for example, can store bitumen for long periods, while bulk packaging is more suitable for short-term and quicker use.

How to reduce bitumen transportation costs?

Bulk packaging is usually more cost-effective but requires special equipment. Also, using lighter packaging such as polyethylene bags can help lower transportation expenses.

Do the types of bitumen packages affect their quality?

Yes. The types of bitumen packages affect their quality because suitable packaging can protect bitumen from environmental factors. On the other hand, weak and low-quality packaging can damage its quality.

reference: nuroil

Bitumen Price