PVC Additives / Lubricants
PE Wax — Polyethylene Wax
Low molecular weight polyethylene used as an external lubricant in rigid PVC and as a dispersing agent in masterbatch. Its low melt viscosity lets it wet pigment and filler surfaces quickly, which is why it also appears in inks, hot-melt adhesives and coatings.
Chemistry
Production routes
The route decides the molecular weight distribution, and the distribution decides how the wax behaves on your line.
| Type | Route | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Polymerised PE wax | Direct polymerisation of ethylene | Narrow molecular weight distribution, consistent lot to lot |
| Cracked PE wax | Thermal degradation of polyethylene | Broader distribution, cost-efficient |
| Oxidised PE wax | Controlled oxidation | Polar, better pigment wetting and compatibility |
Specification
Parameters stated on the specification
| Drop / softening point | Sets how far into the barrel lubrication is held |
| Melt viscosity at 140 °C | Governs pigment and filler wetting speed |
| Penetration hardness | Hardness of the solid wax |
| Density | Stated on every lot |
| Acid value | Oxidised grades only — indicates polarity |
| Volatile matter & ash | Purity indicators |
Applications
Where it is used
Rigid PVC pipe, profile and sheet as external lubricant; colour and filler masterbatch as dispersant; hot-melt adhesive; printing ink; road marking paint; rubber processing.
How to choose
Drop point and melt viscosity are the two working parameters. A higher drop point holds lubrication further into the barrel, which suits high-temperature extrusion; a lower melt viscosity gives faster pigment wetting, which suits masterbatch. For pigment-heavy formulations the oxidised grade is normally the right starting point.
PE wax is one family within our lubricant range — see the full internal and external lubricant systems.
Supply
Documentation on every shipment
| Certificate of Analysis | Lot-level, supplied with every shipment |
| TDS & SDS | Technical Data Sheet and Safety Data Sheet on request |
| Inspection | SGS pre-shipment inspection available |
| Export set | Commercial Invoice, Packing List, B/L, Certificate of Origin |
Send your required specification.
Drop point, melt viscosity and monthly volume — priced offer within 24 hours, FOB / CFR / CIF.