The use of petroleum derivatives, especially refinery by-products, is of significant importance in various industries. Two such materials, slack wax and foots oil, are widely used in the production of industrial and chemical products. Due to their similar appearance and overlapping applications, understanding the differences between these two substances can aid in making informed decisions when selecting raw materials. In this article from Faraz Oil Bitumen Refinery , we will explore the differences between slack wax and foots oil to provide a clearer understanding of these valuable products.
The Difference Between Slack Wax and Foots Oil
To better grasp the differences between slack wax and foots oil, it is essential first to understand each material individually. Gaining a precise understanding of their characteristics, composition, and applications will help you realize why and how these materials are used in different industries and enable you to make the right choice.
What Is Slack Wax?
Slack wax is a combination of wax and oil, produced as a by-product in refineries during the production of motor oil. It is extracted from a material called lube cut, which itself is a by-product of crude oil processing. Slack wax is commonly used as the raw material for producing paraffin and thus plays a critical role in the chemical industry.
Characteristics of Slack Wax
Slack wax consists of wax and approximately 5 to 30% oil. At room temperature, it is semi-solid and has a yellow or brown color. It boasts a high flash point of over 200°C and an initial boiling point exceeding 280°C. Despite these characteristics, slack wax is classified as non-flammable under the GHS standards of the United Nations. However, due to its petroleum-based components, it burns similarly to fuel.
To preserve the quality of slack wax, it should be stored at around 80°C and kept away from oxidizing agents. These conditions help maintain the material’s physical and chemical properties, preventing degradation or oxidation.
Applications of Slack Wax
The cost-effective production of slack wax from petroleum by-products makes it one of the most widely used materials in industries. Some of its key applications include:
- Paraffin Production: Slack wax serves as the raw material for producing solid and liquid paraffin, which is used in cosmetics, lubricants, and food-grade products.
- Candle Manufacturing: Slack wax is widely used in candle production due to its petroleum content and ability to maintain shape and strength.
- Industrial Coatings and Insulation: Its water-resistant properties make slack wax ideal for industrial coatings and waterproofing applications in buildings and pipelines.
- Rubber and Plastic Industries: Slack wax is used as an additive to improve the processability and flexibility of rubber and plastic products.
- Lubricants and Greases: As a raw material, slack wax contributes to the production of high-quality and long-lasting industrial lubricants and greases.
- Wood Products: In the wood industry, slack wax is utilized to enhance moisture resistance and improve the surface quality of plywood and wood-based products.
- Cosmetic and Personal Care Products: It serves as a base material in the production of creams, lotions, and other cosmetic products.
What Is Foots Oil?
Foots oil is a by-product obtained during the production of solid paraffin. It is recognized as a rich source of base oils and free fatty acids. This material, with its unique properties, plays a crucial role in various industries. Depending on the production process and its composition, foots oil may appear in a liquid or semi-solid form at room temperature and is widely used due to its distinctive chemical properties.
Features of Foots Oil
Foots oil is typically yellow or light brown and can be found in liquid or semi-solid states, depending on its oil content. It has a high boiling point and viscosity, making it suitable for numerous industrial processes requiring lubricants and heat-resistant materials.
Another notable feature of foots oil is its chemical compatibility with a wide range of substances, enabling its use in diverse industries such as footwear manufacturing, plastics production, and woodworking. Additionally, its free fatty acid content allows it to perform efficiently in applications requiring high resistance to oxidation and corrosion.
The Role of Slack Wax in Foots Oil Production
Foots oil is produced during the paraffin production process, where slack wax is used as feedstock. Through processes such as deoiling and decolorization, slack wax is refined into solid paraffin (paraffin wax). The oil separated during this process becomes a by-product known as foots oil or residue wax, which possesses various industrial applications.
Due to its controlled production process, foots oil contains balanced amounts of base oils and free fatty acids. This makes it a valuable industrial material used in the manufacturing of products such as lubricants, plastics, and other chemical derivatives.
Industrial Applications of Foots Oil
Foots oil is highly valued in industrial applications due to its chemical composition, including free fatty acids. Its properties, such as lubricity, resistance to oxidation, and adaptability to various substances, make it a versatile material in the following industries:
- Footwear and Plastics Manufacturing: Footsoil is used as a raw material in the production of footwear and plastic products.
- Wood and Plywood Industry: It is utilized in the production of plywood and wooden products to enhance durability and surface quality.
- Polishes and Waxes: Due to its polishing and lubricating properties, footsoil is used in manufacturing car waxes, shoe polishes, and wood surface treatments.
Differences Between Slack Wax and Foots Oil
As discussed, both slack wax and foots oil are by-products of the petroleum refining industry, but their primary difference lies in their production processes and composition. Slack wax is a by-product of motor oil production from lube cut and serves as the raw material for producing paraffin. In contrast, foots oil is a by-product of solid paraffin production, obtained after deoiling and decolorization of slack wax.
The production difference results in footsoil having a higher content of oils and free fatty acids, while slack wax contains more wax and less oil, making it better suited for paraffin and related products. Additionally, slack wax is typically yellow or brown and semi-solid due to its higher wax content. Conversely, footsoil is more liquid-like and often appears lighter in color due to its higher oil content.
Conclusion
While both slack wax and foots oil are essential by-products of petroleum refining, their differences in production processes, chemical composition, and industrial applications make them suitable for entirely different purposes. For purchasing high-quality slack wax and other petroleum derivatives at the best price, consult with the experts at Faraz Oil.