FT Wax vs PE Wax: Which to Choose for PVC Lubrication?

Both waxes are core PVC processing lubricants, yet their origin, structure and cost-performance differ markedly. This article uses real Heyee Chem grades to help you decide.

FT wax & PE wax

1. Origin & Structure Differences

PVC application
PVC pipes & profiles

2. Performance Comparison

PropertyFT WaxPE Wax
Molecular-weight distributionnarrow, uniformrelatively broad
Purity / colorhigh, whitegood, may yellow slightly
Lubrication efficiencyhigh (low dosage)moderate
Dispersion in masterbatchexcellent, stable tintinggood, cost-effective
Blooming risklowhigher if overdosed
Costhigherlower

3. Real Heyee Chem Grades

Representative FT Wax grades

GradeDrop pointFormUse
HY-W104≥117°Cwhite powderpremium micronized, HMA, PVC
HY-102>110°Cwhite powderHMA, coatings, PVC
HY-115 / 115P / 115M>110°Cpowder/beadgeneral purpose
HY-W80~95°Cbeaddispersion, masterbatch

Representative PE Wax grades

GradeSoftening / Drop pointFormUse
HY-7100Dmp ≥100°Cgranulemasterbatch, ink dispersion
HY-40softening ≥116°Cwhite beadmasterbatch, HMA
HY-OPE-16 seriesoxidized, AV 14–18granulewater-based / emulsion

4. Selection Conclusions by Need

high-end performance / thermal stability / surface gloss → FT wax HY-W104, HY-102 (premium PVC stabilizer, HMA)

cost-performance / masterbatch / ink dispersion → PE wax HY-40, HY-7100D

water-based / emulsion systems → oxidized series HY-OPE-16, HY-9128

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FT wax worth the higher price vs PE wax?

In scenarios demanding thermal stability and surface quality — PVC stabilizers, hot-melt adhesives — FT wax's narrow distribution and high purity reduce blooming and improve gloss and yield, usually making it worth the cost. For purely cost-sensitive mass dispersion (ordinary masterbatch, ink), PE wax can cut cost.

Can FT wax and PE wax share one production line?

Yes, but residues must be thoroughly cleaned between switches to avoid cross-contamination of different-polarity waxes affecting batch stability. A transition cleaning between batches is recommended and should be recorded.

For masterbatch / ink dispersion, FT or PE wax?

For cost and dispersion, PE wax (Heyee HY-7100D drop point ≥100°C, HY-40 softening ≥116°C) is a good fit; for higher whiteness, narrower distribution and surface gloss (premium masterbatch, coatings), FT wax HY-W80 / HY-115 series is preferable.

Which wax for water-based systems?

Use oxidized wax for water-based/emulsion systems: oxidized FT wax (HY-9128, HY-104-28, acid value 27–30) or oxidized PE wax (HY-OPE-16 series, acid value 14–18, viscosity 200–300 cP). The polar groups provide emulsification and interfacial compatibility.

📎 Grade parameters above are typical values of Heyee Chem. For bulk purchase, please refer to official COA and the full product cross-reference. Contact sales for Heyee-Wax-Comparison.pdf or the 2026 product catalog.