Light Slack Wax

What is Light  Slack Wax ?

Light slack wax is a byproduct of the refining process of crude oil, just like heavy slack wax. However, it differs from heavy slack wax in terms of its properties and composition.

Light slack wax is a soft and sticky substance with a lower molecular weight than heavy slack wax. It has a lower melting point and is usually more viscous than heavy slack wax. Light slack wax is commonly used in a variety of applications, including as a lubricant and as a raw material in the production of candles, polishes, and other industrial products.

One of the primary uses of light slack wax is as a blending component in the production of paraffin wax. By blending light slack wax with heavier grades of slack wax, manufacturers can create customized blends of paraffin wax with specific melting points and other desired properties. Light slack wax is also used as a feedstock for the production of microcrystalline wax, a specialty wax used in a range of industrial applications.

Quality of Light  Slack Wax   

 The quality of light slack wax can vary depending on its intended use and the specific refining process used to produce it. However, here are some general quality characteristics to consider when evaluating light slack wax:

Color: Light slack wax should typically have a light yellow to brown color. Darker colors may indicate impurities or excessive refining.

Odor: Light slack wax should be virtually odorless, with a very mild and non-offensive smell.

Melting point: The melting point of light slack wax can vary depending on the specific intended use, but it should generally be lower than that of heavy slack wax. The melting point of light slack wax typically ranges from 40-60°C.

Penetration: Light slack wax should have a relatively high penetration value (i.e., the depth to which a standard needle will penetrate the wax under specific conditions). Typically, light slack wax will have a penetration value of 20-60 dmm (decimillimeters).

Congealing point: The congealing point of light slack wax (the temperature at which it solidifies) is typically in the range of 35-55°C.

Acid value: Light slack wax should have a low acid value, typically less than 1 mg KOH/g.

Saponification value: The saponification value of light slack wax is typically in the range of 60-100 mg KOH/g.

History of Light  Slack Wax  

 The history of light slack wax can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when the oil industry began to develop in the United States. At that time, oil was primarily used for lighting, and the refining process produced a variety of byproducts, including waxes.

Light slack wax was initially considered a waste product of the refining process and was typically disposed of or burned as fuel. However, as the use of petroleum-based products expanded, the value of slack wax as a raw material for various applications became apparent.

During the early 20th century, the use of slack wax expanded beyond traditional applications like candle-making to include a wide range of industrial products. Light slack wax was found to be particularly useful as a blending component in the production of paraffin wax, which is commonly used in the manufacture of candles, crayons, and other products.

In the mid-20th century, microcrystalline wax, a specialty wax used in a variety of industrial applications, was developed using light slack wax as a feedstock. This led to further expansion of the uses for light slack wax and increased demand for the product.

Today, light slack wax remains an important raw material in the production of a wide range of industrial and consumer products. Its properties, versatility, and low cost make it a valuable resource in many different industries.

Usages of  Light  Slack Wax 

 Light slack wax is a versatile material that has a wide range of industrial and consumer applications. Some of the most common uses of light slack wax include:

Blending with other waxes: Light slack wax is commonly used as a blending component in the production of paraffin wax, which is used in the manufacture of candles, crayons, and other products. By blending light slack wax with other waxes, manufacturers can create custom blends with specific melting points and other properties.

Lubricants: Light slack wax is used as a lubricant in various industries, including textile, paper, and food processing. It can be used to reduce friction, prevent sticking, and protect against wear and tear.

Coatings and polishes: Light slack wax is used in the manufacture of coatings and polishes for various surfaces, including wood, leather, and metal. It can be used to provide a protective layer, enhance shine, and improve water resistance.

Adhesives: Light slack wax is used as a component in the production of various types of adhesives, including hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and sealants.

Cosmetics and personal care products: Light slack wax is used in the production of cosmetics and personal care products, such as lip balms, lotions, and hair care products. It can be used to provide texture, consistency, and moisturizing properties.

Other industrial uses: Light slack wax is used in a variety of other industrial applications, such as in the production of rubber, plastics, and inks.

Packing of Light  Slack Wax  

Light slack wax can be packed in various ways depending on the intended use and the specific requirements of the customer. Here are some of the most common packing options for light slack wax:

Cartons: Light slack wax is often packed in cartons, typically containing 25 kg or 50 kg of wax. The cartons may be made of corrugated cardboard or other materials and may be printed with information such as the product name, weight, and other specifications.

Bags: Light slack wax can also be packed in bags made of materials such as polyethylene or polypropylene. These bags may contain varying amounts of wax, depending on the specific requirements of the customer.

Drums: Light slack wax can be packed in steel or plastic drums, typically containing 150-200 kg of wax. The drums may be lined with plastic to prevent the wax from sticking to the sides.

Bulk: For larger quantities of light slack wax, it may be packed in bulk in tanker trucks or ISO containers. This option is typically used for industrial customers who require large volumes of wax. 

Prices of  Light  Slack Wax  

The price of light slack wax can vary depending on a number of factors, including the quality of the wax, the quantity purchased, and the location of the buyer. Additionally, market conditions and supply and demand factors can also influence the price of light slack wax.

As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the average price of light slack wax was around $700-$800 per metric ton FOB (Free on Board) basis. However, it is important to note that prices can fluctuate depending on various factors and may have changed since then.

It is also important to consider that pricing of light slack wax can vary depending on the supplier, so it is recommended to obtain quotes from multiple suppliers before making a purchase. Additionally, it is important to take into account any applicable taxes, duties, or other fees associated with the purchase and transport of the wax.

Overall, the price of light slack wax can be influenced by a variety of factors, and it is important to conduct thorough research and obtain multiple quotes to ensure a fair and competitive price.

Delivery time and Readiness of Light  Slack Wax

The delivery time and readiness of light slack wax can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the quantity and quality of the wax, the location of the supplier and the buyer, and the shipping method used.

For small quantities of light slack wax, such as those packaged in bags or cartons, the supplier may be able to ship the wax within a few days or weeks, depending on their stock availability and the proximity of the buyer.

For larger quantities of light slack wax, such as those shipped in drums or bulk tankers, the supplier may require more time to prepare the wax and arrange for shipping. This process may take several weeks or even months, depending on the specific requirements of the buyer and the shipping method used.

Additionally, factors such as weather conditions, transport delays, and customs clearance procedures can also affect the delivery time of light slack wax.

It is recommended to discuss delivery times and readiness with the supplier prior to making a purchase to ensure that the wax will be available when needed. It is also important to take into account any potential delays or unforeseen circumstances that may affect the delivery time.

Analysis Table of Light  Slack Wax

Properties	Specifications
Appearance	(e.g. solid, semi-solid, liquid)
Color	(e.g. yellow, white)
Odor	(e.g. odorless, slightly waxy)
Melting point	(e.g. 50-60°C)
Penetration	(e.g. 5-15 dmm)
Oil content	(e.g. 5-20%)
Density	(e.g. 0.8-0.9 g/cm³)
Acid value	(e.g. 0.5-1.5 mg KOH/g)
Flash point	(e.g. 200-250°C)
Solubility	(e.g. insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents)
Shelf life	(e.g. 2 years)
Packaging	(e.g. cartons, bags, drums)
Typical applications	(e.g. candle making, wax coatings, polishes, lubricants)
Safety considerations	(e.g. flammable, use in well-ventilated areas)