FAQ's

What is a masterbatch?

Masterbatches are used to impart colours and special properties to plastic end-products. Cost of masterbatch is hardly 1-2% in final plastic product but its quality is very important for durability and functional properties of the product. A Masterbatch contains polymers, additives and colorants specifically formulated together to provide either a general or specific function. A universal masterbatch is designed to be widely compatible with many polymers. It will, however, yield different shades when used in different polymers.

Why do masterbatches differ among purveyors?

Since there are many ways to achieve the same result, there is wide opportunity when formulating a masterbatch:

1) To be safe, formulations can over specify performance and therefore become more expensive. Conversely, they can generate borderline performance to minimize cost.

2) Bulk density and specific gravity variations can result if different base ingredients are used. This can lead to a further difference in the end result if gravimetric or volumetric dosers are used at the processor.

3) Formulations will vary depending on whether a supplier is designing a new masterbatch or copying someone else's. It is always best to be involved at the color conception stage where it's possible to optimize formulation choice.

4) Formulations can be different depending on whether they are manually designed or computer generated.

5) Masterbatches may contain different amounts of pigment depending on the pigments strength/price ratio and how well the pigments have been dispersed.

6) A masterbatches ability to distribute (mix) into the polymer will vary due to its viscosity and flow. This varies between suppliers.

• Different suppliers choose to use or not use extenders.

• Some masterbatches are weak due to differences in extrusion capabilities.

• Processor machine type (size, capacity, screw-type, operating profile) can all influence the performance of the masterbatch.

At R.P. Industries , we always ask our customers for the specification, application and commercial parameters in order to craft a tailor-made masterbatch . Masterbatches are engineered with an application and process in mind.

Why do prices for the same masterbatch vary from supplier to supplier?

There may be variations in:

• Buying power.
• Production costs and general operating costs.
• Formulations.
• Opacity and pigment loadings.