In the plastic manufacturing industry, lubricants are essential for ensuring product quality. Two commonly used types are PEWax external lubricants and internal lubricants. Understanding their differences enables businesses to optimize production processes, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
WHAT IS PEWAX EXTERNAL LUBRICANT?
PEWax, or polyethylene wax, is a critical additive in plastic manufacturing, commonly used with materials like PVC, PE, and PP. This external lubricant is applied to the surface of equipment to reduce friction between molten plastic and metal components.
PEWax has a non-polar molecular structure and high thermal stability, forming a thin protective film. This film prevents sticking to molds and reduces equipment wear.
In PVC production, PEWax enhances surface gloss, improves water resistance, and facilitates mold release. It is widely used in injection molding, extrusion, or the production of plastic pipes and cables.
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WHAT IS AN INTERNAL LUBRICANT?
Internal lubricants are additives blended directly into the plastic compound during mixing. They work by reducing friction between polymer molecules, improving the flow of molten plastic and preventing thermal degradation during processing.
Internal lubricants offer significant practical benefits. They enhance the rheological properties of plastics, ensuring smoother extrusion or injection molding. Additionally, they prevent thermal decomposition, preserving the polymer structure. This results in products with high mechanical strength and uniform surfaces.
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COMPARING PEWAX EXTERNAL LUBRICANT AND INTERNAL LUBRICANT
Application Method
PEWax external lubricants are applied directly to equipment surfaces, such as molds or screws, to reduce friction between plastic and metal. In contrast, internal lubricants are incorporated into the plastic compound during the mixing stage, acting from within the material to improve flow.
Primary Function
PEWax focuses on protecting equipment and aiding mold release. It prevents molten plastic from adhering to metal surfaces, reduces wear, and enhances product gloss. Internal lubricants, however, reduce friction between polymer molecules, lowering viscosity, improving flow, and preventing thermal degradation.
Applications
PEWax is commonly used in the production of PVC pipes, cables, and films. Internal lubricants are preferred for rigid PVC, PP, or products requiring high precision. Some lubricants, like PEWax, can serve dual roles depending on their application, but their primary function depends on the method of use.
Impact on Products
PEWax enhances product aesthetics, such as gloss and water resistance, while protecting machinery. Internal lubricants ensure material consistency, improve mechanical strength, and reduce processing defects.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT LUBRICANT
Selecting the appropriate lubricant depends on the plastic type, production process, and specific product requirements:
- Compatibility with plastic materials: The lubricant must not cause stress cracking, degradation, or changes in physical properties.
- Operating conditions: Temperature, pressure, and processing speed affect lubricant performance. PEWax excels in high-temperature processes.
- Product requirements: For high gloss, PEWax is ideal. For improved flow and durability, internal lubricants are preferred.
VICHEM – TRUSTED DISTRIBUTOR OF LUBRICANTS IN VIETNAM
Vichem is a leading distributor of high-quality lubricants in Vietnam. We provide not only superior products but also international-standard after-sales services, including:
- Technical consultation: Assisting customers in selecting the right products for their needs.
- Quality testing: Our expert team conducts rigorous tests to ensure consistent product performance.
- Application support: Partnering with clients to integrate additives into production lines for optimal efficiency.
For more information, contact us via:
📞 Hotline: 0817 901 790
📧 Email: contact@vichem.vn
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🌐 Website: www.vichem.vn
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