Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• Understanding the Role of Lubricants in PVC Processing
• Types of Lubricants in PVC Processing
• Selecting Lubricants with Long Carbon Chains
• What may happen if you choose improper Lubricants?
• Factors to consider when choosing PVC Lubricants
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Introduction

Rewa, India’s premier manufacturer of PVC lubricants and additives, is well aware of the unique challenges that PVC processing presents. Due to its inherent thermal sensitivity, high melt viscosity, and tendency to adhere to processing equipment, PVC requires specialized solutions to ensure efficient and smooth processing. Lubricants provide essential support in overcoming these challenges and enhancing the overall performance and quality of PVC products.

We’ve consistently emphasized the crucial role of lubricants in PVC applications. However, for a PVC manufacturer, many lubricants are available, which can make the selection process more confusing. Selecting the appropriate lubricant for PVC applications goes beyond personal preference and requires careful evaluation to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

In this blog, we aim to educate PVC manufacturers about the critical considerations for choosing the optimal lubricant for PVC processing so that they can make an informed decision that will benefit their business. 

Before diving into the selection process, let’s recap some fundamental concepts about lubricants. As a manufacturer of PVC additives, we believe that a profound understanding of these concepts is crucial for selecting the suitable lubricant for your PVC processing needs.

Understanding the Role of Lubricants in PVC Processing

Lubricants are essential additives in PVC processing, serving multiple functions, such as

• Reducing Friction between PVC compound and processing equipment. 
• Enhancing flow characteristics of PVC, preventing issues like sticking and clumping.
• Maintaining the thermal stability of PVC during processing, preventing degradation and discoloration.
• Enhancing the aesthetic and functional quality of the final product.

Types of Lubricants in PVC Processing

Lubricants used in PVC processing are categorized into internal and external types based on their function and where they act within the PVC matrix or during the processing phase.

Internal lubricants are added to improve flow and processability and produce defect-free PVC products. External lubricants ensure that the PVC doesn’t stick to the equipment. Lubricants are available in powder and liquid form for PVC applications. 

Looking for a more detailed discussion about internal and external lubricants? Here’s one!

Selecting lubricants with Long Carbon Chains

Due to their unique molecular structure, lubricants with long carbon chains are preferred in internal and external PVC lubrication roles. The extended carbon chains provide a larger surface area for interaction with PVC molecules and processing equipment. 

This interaction reduces the friction between PVC particles (internal lubrication) and between the PVC melt and the equipment surfaces (external lubrication). 

What may happen if you choose improper lubricants?

Choosing improper lubricant for PVC applicants can lead to several detrimental effects on both the processing efficiency and the quality of the final product, such as: 

• Increased Wear: Leading to increased machine downtime, higher maintenance costs, and reduces equipment lifespan
• Sticking: Inconsistent product dimensions and poor surface finish, compromising their aesthetic and functional properties.

Unreliable products: Inconsistency in flexibility, discoloration leading to unreliable products.

Factors to Consider When Choosing PVC Lubricants

Compatibility

• Understand your needs and identify the challenge that lubricant should address. Does the PVC melt flow need improvement? Is it having too many cracks or sticking to the processing equipment? 
• Accordingly, select whether the PVC processing requires an internal or external lubricant. As explained before, if you encounter issues with the PVC resin, add internal lubricants, and if you face problems during processing, use external lubricants.

Compatibility with other additives

• Many additives, such as stabilizers, plasticizers, pigments, and fillers, are added to ensure efficient PVC processing. Ensure the lubricant is compatible with your PVC formulation and other additives used. Incompatibility can lead to poor dispersion, reduced efficiency, and product defects.

Processing Conditions

• Consider the processing temperature and pressure. Some lubricants are more effective at higher temperatures, while others perform better at lower temperatures.

End-Product Requirements

• Determine the specific requirements of your end product, such as clarity, surface finish, and mechanical properties.  Then, select lubricants that enhance these attributes.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure the lubricant complies with relevant regulations and standards, especially for applications in food packaging, medical devices, and other sensitive industries.

Consult with an Expert

• Consult an expert and lubricant manufacturer to determine which lubricant is appropriate for addressing a specific issue. Selecting the proper internal and external lubricants for PVC processing is critical to maintaining processing efficiency, product quality, and economic viability.

Conclusion

As a leading PVC lubricants and additives manufacturer in India, we are committed to providing solutions that enhance your processing efficiency. We offer high-quality lubricants and expert guidance tailored to your processing needs. 

Contact us today to procure the right lubricants, optimizing performance and quality.

FAQs