Lubrication of Knitting Yarns
(also visit our Industrial Wax business unit)
Paraffin waxes are applied to yarns by means of wax rings during the winding process of knitting yarns. They improve some important properties of the yarns and provide yarn lubrication, resulting in a reduction in the coefficient of friction. Proper waxing will ensure that a uniform yarn tension is maintained throughout the knitting process. Cationic hard wax emulsions provide an alternative to the wax rings and can reduce the formation of holes in knitted fabric (see “Improved Textile Processing With Sasol Wax A28”).

Water Repellency
Paraffin waxes are ideally suited for fabric impregnation in order to improve the water repellency of the fabric. In conjunction with zirconic salts, wash resistant impregnation effects are achieved.
Anionic paraffin wax emulsions provide an alternative for high temperature impregnation of the fabric with wax in order to attain water repellency. The emulsions can be utilized alone or be used in combination with other auxiliary products.

Sizing of Warp Yarns
Waxes and wax emulsions form an important part of almost all sizing mixtures for warp yarns prior to weaving. These products are added to the size mixture, or applied by a kiss roller after the primary size has been applied. The waxes protect, strengthen and lubricate the warp yarns during the weaving process. Benefits of using waxes include improved water resistance of the size, reduced loose fibers and decreased friction.

Sewability
Wax emulsion application to either the sewing thread or to the fabric prevents needleburn, thereby improving sewing efficiency and minimising fabric damage. Wax emulsions are commonly used in combination with silicone oil emulsions.

Finishing
Wax emulsions enhance the performance of finishing compounds, such as softeners, silicones and resins. The waxes provide superior fabric properties such as improved flex abrasion resistance, tear strength, sewability and handle.