Usage and Benefits of Masterbatch | Capital Colours

Usage And Benefits Of Masterbatch

Usage And Benefits Of Masterbatch

A masterbatch can be defined as a concentrated mixture of pigments, additives, and other components dispersed in a carrier resin. They usually come in the form of pellets or granules and are used in the plastic industry to impart colour, modify properties, and improve the processability of the plastic.

The master batch is added to the base polymer during the production process. It is either mixed directly or by employing a compounding process such as extrusion or injection moulding, which ensures that the components are dispersed evenly throughout the base polymer. By using masterbatches, one can easily incorporate the desired properties into the final product. The invention of the masterbatch can be attributed to the need for an efficient and cost-effective system for colouring in the production industry. Before the invention of masterbatch, it involved a complex process where powdered pigments were directly blended into the polymer melt. This took time and the resulting output could not be controlled to a large extent. As a result, it was difficult to achieve consistent colouration in the resulting plastic product.

After due research, it came to the realisation that dispersing pigments or additives into a carrier resin in advance can help in creating a concentrated mixture that can be added to base polymers during the manufacturing process, giving it superior consistency over its counterparts. Since then, masterbatches have become an integral part of the manufacturing industry, providing manufacturers with a tool that provides high levels of customisation, colouration, and improved properties of the end product.

Some of its advantages are:

Consistency – Masterbatches have a high concentration of pigment formulation which ensures that the colour dispersion is consistent throughout the product, eliminating the need for taking up any extra effort. Batch-to-batch variations are zero.
Cost-effective – Manufacturers can avoid making extra purchases just to create the mixture. The masterbatch has high pigment concentration meaning you require only a little to get the desired effect and colour, resulting in lower production cost. It also minimises waste since the output can be controlled as per the requirement of the manufacturer. Everything is manufactured to the dot!
Efficient – Masterbatches can be easily incorporated into almost any type of requirement depending on the industry. Better control, low wastage, high customisation, and lasting effect makes it perfect for multiple industries such as automobile, textile, petrochemical, electronics, heavy industries, etc.
Customisation – The biggest highlight of masterbatches is that they can be tailored to meet specific requirements, allowing users to achieve high levels of customisation. This includes colour, performance, and various forms of functionality to name a few.
Quality – Masterbatches are manufactured in a highly controlled environment which ensures the quality and performance of each batch. Manufacturers can maintain tight control over the composition of the product, allowing them to develop products of high quality.
Compatibility – Masterbatches are designed to be compatible with almost any type of base polymer, ensuring easy and even dispersion of pigments and additives during the production process. The resulting product will have improved colour, stability, durability, and functionality.
Ease of handling – Masterbatches usually come in the form of pellets, powders, or liquids depending on the requirement. They are easy to handle and store which ensures that the existing stock can be managed effectively before ordering a new one.

It is important to note that the benefits of masterbatches depend on the application and the industry. It is advised to consider your options and consult with a masterbatch manufacturer so one can ensure that the resulting product is tailored to the needs of the user.