How much impurities and moisture in the polyester color masterbatch can be considered as qualified? The test report interprets it like this. 

When purchasing polyester color masterbatches, apart from color and price, the ash content and moisture in the test report are two indicators that are often overlooked but are extremely crucial. They directly affect the smoothness of spinning, the strength of the fibers, and the quality of the final product. Below, from two perspectives, we will help you understand the significance and acceptable ranges of these two indicators. 

1. Ash content: Reflects the pigment content and impurity level 

Ash content refers to the percentage of inorganic substances remaining after the color masterbatch is burned at high temperature. It mainly comes from pigments (such as titanium dioxide, carbon black, etc.) and a small amount of impurities. 

The significance of ash content: The level of ash directly reflects the content of pigments (or fillers) in the color masterbatch. For color masterbatches used in polyester spinning, excessive ash indicates a high amount of pigment addition, which may affect the fluidity of the spinning melt; while too low ash content may result in insufficient coloring ability. Additionally, if the ash contains impurities such as metal ions, it may catalyze the degradation of the polymer during the spinning process. 

Reference for qualification range: The ash content standards vary significantly for different colors and uses of color masterbatches. Generally, the ash content of white masterbatches (mainly from titanium dioxide) is relatively high, possibly ranging from 40% to 60%; while the ash content of color masterbatches mainly composed of organic pigments is much lower, usually ranging from 10% to 30%. When purchasing, it is recommended to ask the supplier for the typical ash content range and pay attention to the ash content fluctuations between batches - the smaller the fluctuations, the more stable the quality control. Jiangsu Meizilin Nanotechnology Co., Ltd. adopts a nano-level breaking and refining process and a super-dispersant coating process to optimize the ash content control while ensuring the dispersion. 

II. Moisture: A Sensitive Indicator Affecting Spinning Breakage Rate 

Water is the "invisible killer" in the process of polyester filament spinning, having a significant impact on the stability of the spinning process and the quality of the fibers. 

The hazards of moisture: The spinning temperature of polyester fibers is usually between 280℃ and 300℃. If the color masterbatch contains excessive moisture, the moisture will rapidly vaporize during the melting and extrusion process, causing air bubbles, resulting in broken fibers, increased fuzz, and even network blockage. For color masterbatches used in high-speed spinning (such as POY and FDY), the control of moisture is even more stringent. 

Reference for qualification range: The moisture content of polyester color masterbatch is usually controlled at a relatively low level (such as below 0.5%). For fine denier yarn or high-speed spinning, the requirements may be stricter. When purchasing, attention should be paid to the moisture test data provided by the supplier, and based on one's own spinning speed and equipment conditions, confirm with the supplier the reasonable moisture control target. 

Summary and Selection Suggestions 

When purchasing polyester color masterbatch, it is recommended to assess the ash content and moisture content according to the following steps: 

Request for a complete test report: The supplier is required to provide a test report that includes ash content and moisture, rather than relying solely on verbal promises. 

Pay attention to the fluctuations between batches: The smaller the fluctuations in ash content and moisture between batches, the more stable the supplier's quality control is. You can ask the supplier to provide data from three consecutive batches for comparison. 

Define the acceptance range based on the process settings: Based on your spinning temperature, speed and the filtration accuracy of the equipment, jointly determine the reasonable targets for ash content and moisture control with the supplier. 

Jiangsu Mizlion Nano Technology Co., Ltd, Ltd. specializes in coloring and functional masterbatches for polyester, nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, PLA and other base materials. It is suitable for all scenarios of the entire industrial chain including direct melt spinning, filament, and non-woven fabric. We can provide test reports upon request. Welcome to request samples for testing. 

Official website: http://www.mizlion.com/