EN 12591 is a standard that defines a type of asphalt, particularly asphalt bitumen, used in Europe. This standard includes specific quality requirements related to bitumen production and use, and is commonly applied in the production of asphalt mixtures. Asphalt is an essential component of modern infrastructure projects. Asphalt bitumen, which is used in both road construction and various construction projects, is of great importance for its quality and safety. It specifies the rules that bitumen manufacturers must follow, especially for road construction and asphalt mixtures. If an asphalt bitumen or asphalt mixture complies with the EN 12591 standard, it must carry the CE mark.
The EN 12591 standard is part of the following European Standards family:
Features Covered by EN 12591 Standard
This standard requires various physical and chemical tests on asphalt bitumen. These tests examine the following properties of asphalt bitumen:
- Viscosity: The flowability of asphalt.
- Physical Properties: Factors that determine the durability of asphalt, such as hardness, elasticity and brittleness.
- Chemical Composition: Chemical compounds contained in asphalt and the effects of these compounds on the environment.
- Heat Resistance: The performance of asphalt at high temperatures.
The tests defined by the standard are as follows:
Test samples should be taken as described in EN 58 standard. Test samples should be taken from laboratory samples and prepared for testing as described in EN 12594.
- EN 1426 – Penetration Test
- EN 1427 – Softening Point
- EN 12592 – Solubility
- EN 12593 – Fraass Breaking Point
- EN 12595 – Kinematic Viscosity
- EN 12596 – Dynamic Viscosity by Vacuum Capillary Method
- EN 12607-1 – Hardening Resistance (at 163°C)
- EN 12607-2 – Hardening Resistance (at 120°C)
- EN ISO 2592 – Flash Point
The quality of asphalt bitumen used in road construction, airport construction, parking lots and many other areas directly affects the success of projects. Selecting asphalt bitumen that complies with the EN 12591 standard is critical to building long-lasting and durable infrastructures. Products that comply with this standard are more resistant to harsh weather conditions, heavy traffic loads and harsh climate conditions.
Factory Production Control System
The manufacturer must establish a Factory Production Control System (FPC System) in accordance with the EN 12591 standard and must continuously implement this system. This system ensures that the products undergo quality control at every stage.
The FPC system shall include procedures, regular inspections and tests and/or evaluations, and the use of these results to control raw materials and other incoming materials, as well as components, equipment, the production process and the product. All elements, requirements and provisions accepted by the manufacturer shall be systematically documented in the form of written policies and procedures. Acceptance criteria for all incoming main materials shall be documented. Calibrations of all test equipment shall be carried out according to documented procedures, frequencies and criteria. The manufacturer shall establish procedures to ensure that the values of all characteristics related to product testing are maintained. There shall be documented procedures for non-conforming products, traceability and marking, corrective actions, transportation, storage and packaging controls. It shall meet the requirements specified in the ISO 9001 standard.
EN 12591 is a European standard established to ensure the high quality of asphalt bitumen. The use of asphalt that complies with this standard guarantees the durability, safety, and environmental friendliness of your projects.
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