08-09-2017, 04:34 PM
Asphalt binders are produced primarily by petroleum refineries and, to a lesser extent, by formulators who purchase the refining mixtures. Until recently, binder specification systems were relatively indulgent and gave refiners a high level of production flexibility. Therefore, refiners tended to view asphalt as a simple and convenient way to use the residual material from the refinery's operation. As a result of the new Superpave specification system, asphalt refiners increasingly perceive asphalt as a value-added product. It has also made many refineries reevaluate their commitment to asphalt production; some have made a strategic decision to discourage or stop asphalt production, although others have renewed their efforts to produce high quality binders.
The production of asphalt binder consists of two phases: refining the asphalt base stock and formulating this material into a finished asphalt binder. As a result of the new Super-pave specifications, both production phases require greater logistical control and greater attention to quality. In addition, the focus on environmental, health and safety characteristics of asphalt has increased. This emphasis has created a demand for asphalt binders with improved and lower volatility, a feature that can be affected by both the refining and formulation phases. The refining phase uses relatively mature technologies, and no significant changes are expected in these technologies. However, the new specifications have created a need for more judicious selection of crude oil and stricter process control. Because most crude asphalt oils are imported, unforeseen political events may affect the future availability of these crude oils and may pose unexpected challenges for the industry.
The production of asphalt binder consists of two phases: refining the asphalt base stock and formulating this material into a finished asphalt binder. As a result of the new Super-pave specifications, both production phases require greater logistical control and greater attention to quality. In addition, the focus on environmental, health and safety characteristics of asphalt has increased. This emphasis has created a demand for asphalt binders with improved and lower volatility, a feature that can be affected by both the refining and formulation phases. The refining phase uses relatively mature technologies, and no significant changes are expected in these technologies. However, the new specifications have created a need for more judicious selection of crude oil and stricter process control. Because most crude asphalt oils are imported, unforeseen political events may affect the future availability of these crude oils and may pose unexpected challenges for the industry.