Paraffin Wax Candles Description
Paraffin wax candles is a by-product of the petroleum refining industry. The waxes are generally categorized by their ‘melt point’. The melting point is the temperature at which a wax will turn from a solid to liquid. They fall into 3 categories: high melt point, medium melt point, and low melt point. Each one has different characteristics, making them suitable for different applications.
If you are new to candle making, then you may be a little overwhelmed by the number of different types of waxes available on the market. we hope this article will give you a better understanding of the different types of paraffin waxes used in candle making, and the type of candles they are best suited to.
Low melt point in range 40-54 degrees C
This wax is best suited to container candles. It’s soft and has good adhesive qualities, so it doesn’t shrink from the sides of containers as it cools. The small amount of shrinkage has the added advantage of often only requiring one-pour, with no top up needed. The softness and adhesive qualities make this wax unsuitable for molded candles. It doesn’t have the rigidity to support and maintain a rigid pillar shape, and it won’t release from a mold as easily as a wax that has a greater shrinkage when it cools. You will often find this wax sold as ‘container wax’ and is great for candle jars, filled glass containers, tea lights or any candle not designed to be removed from its container before burning.
Medium Melt Point in range 54-65 degrees C
Not as soft as container wax, but still doesn’t have the rigidity to maintain a large pillar shape without the aid of additives, this wax is best suited to container candles and smaller molded candles such as votive.
High Melt Point in range 65-75 degrees C
A strong, hard wax that lends itself to molded and pillar candles. It has quite a bit of shrinkage as it cools, so naturally pulls away from the sides slightly, helping to release the candle from the mold. The downside is it will need ‘topping up’, probably a couple of times as the wax cools and shrinks, leaving a dip around the wick.
Which Type of Paraffin Wax is Suitable for Making Candles?
In making candles, both semi-refined and completely fully refined paraffin wax are applicable, although the selection is contingent upon the intended quality of the candle.
- Fully refined paraffin wax is the best option for high quality candles, particularly those that are scented or intended for cosmetic use.
- Semi-refined paraffin wax, on the other hand, is cheaper and better for making candles for general use .
Fully Refined Grades
In fully refined paraffin wax, the purity level is above 99.5%, and the oil amount is generally less than 0.5%. A more thorough method is used to refine it, leaving behind a white, odorless wax that burns smoothly.
Semi-Refined Grades
Semi-refined paraffin 1-3% wax usually has oil content in it and can be melted at temperatures like 58–60°C and 60–62°C.
