What is Paraffin?
Paraffin wax derives its name from the Latin term “parum affinis”. Paraffin is a type of wax that is colorless and odorless, obtained from petroleum. It was first derived from wood tar by Carl Reichenbach in 1829, and from petroleum after 1867. In 1947, synthetic paraffin wax began to be produced for the first time.
Paraffin is widely used in the food industry to provide a bright and vibrant appearance in foods. In addition, it is extensively used in the pharmaceutical industry, furniture polishes, leather processing, textile industry, and in the production of candles.
The quality of the finished product will be as good as the quality of the paraffin wax used. The better the reduction of beeswax droplets in the water phase, the better the appearance and sealing properties that can be achieved.
Paraffin Emulsification Process
A High-Pressure Homogenizer is needed for a better mixture of beeswax emulsions. Paraffin wax does not mix with water and makes it difficult to form an emulsion. A certain degree of mixture can be achieved using surfactants, but the most effective mixture can be obtained with high-pressure homogenizers, which perform significantly better than traditional mixing methods.
Within the high-pressure homogenizer, fluids are fragmented into particles through cavitation, shear forces, and turbulence effects, resulting in a homogenous mixture. High-pressure homogenization can reduce particle sizes to sub-micron levels. As a result, the mixture, which has a heterogeneous structure, is forced to remain a homogenous mixture for a longer period.
Why Should a High-Pressure Homogenizer be Used in Paraffin Production?
High-pressure homogenizers ensure that the mixture, which has a heterogeneous structure, remains homogeneous for a longer period by reducing the particle size of the fluid passing through it. This helps to prevent many problems encountered in manufacturing.
Advantages of High-Pressure Homogenizer:
- Due to the homogenization process, the reduction of the particle size decreases the water permeability of the wax, thereby increasing its sealing properties. For example, reducing the water permeability of paraffin used in parquet manufacturing provides a significant advantage to the material.
- It reduces the need for additive materials used in the production process of paraffin.
- It enhances the quality of the end product.
- Emulsion stability increases.
- It reduces the amount of heat required for manufacturing, resulting in energy savings.
- It lowers manufacturing costs and ensures consistent results.
