These handling recommendations refer to roofing bitumen complying with the physical property requirements of the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) standard D 450 “Specification for Coal Tar Pitch Used in Roofing, Dampproofing and Waterproofing” (Types I and III coal tar). The bitumen should be homogenous and free of water and debris.
Storage Recommendations
- Store all containers in an upright position, do not double stack the containers and do not puncture them.
- Protect materials from prolonged sunlight exposure and moisture exposure. Protect materials from contamination and debris.
- The maximum prolonged storage temperature for coal tar is 250°F.
- For maximum control of temperature, use a closed vessel with an automatically controlled heating mechanism.
Heating Recommendations
- Excessive heating may damage and change the physical properties of bitumens
- To avoid problems, the following guidelines should be considered:
- Coal Tar Specifications Type I Type III
- Maximum heating temperature……………… 400°F 425°F
- Do not exceed °F when storing for period of 4 hours or more without material replenishment…………………………… 385°F 400°F
- Maximum prolonged storage temperature………………………………………….. 250°F 250°F
The recommended temperature at the point of application either by mop bucket or by mechanical applicator is the equiviscous temperature (EVT) plus or minus 25°F. Wind and/or other adverse weather conditions , during application, may necessitate adjustment of the heating equipment to maintain the EVT range at the point of application. Always be sure not to exceed the maximum heating temperatures. Insulated equipment should be used to reduce temperature fallback. Bitumen temperature affects flow rate, application uniformity, and felt embedment. Thermometers or other temperature sensing devices are required to check bitumen temperature at the heating equipment and at the point of application. These devices must be periodically checked for accuracy.