HS321 is a high-performance expandable polystyrene (EPS) from Tabriz Petrochemical Company, designed for a wide range of packaging and insulation applications. As part of the TPC Performance products, HS321 is a versatile material known for its excellent mechanical strength and molding capabilities, especially in applications where fire retardancy is not a requirement.
 
Product Overview
Type: Expandable Polystyrene (EPS)
Manufacturing Process: HS321 is produced through continuous mass polymerization, resulting in spherical polystyrene beads that contain pentane as the expansion agent. This process ensures uniform bead size and composition, crucial for consistent product quality.
Characteristics: HS321 is specifically formulated to achieve high strength at low densities, making it ideal for protective packaging and insulation applications. It is not fire retardant, which should be considered when specifying for building applications.
 
Key Applications
Packaging Solutions: HS321 is extensively used for contour moldings with a minimum wall thickness of 10 mm, providing high mechanical strength even at low densities. Its properties make it suitable for protecting products against impacts during shipping and handling.
Insulation Materials: While not suitable for applications requiring fire retardancy, HS321 is perfect for insulation boards used in various construction projects where thermal insulation is needed without fire-resistant properties.
 
Processing and Handling
Pre-expansion: HS321 can be pre-expanded to densities of approximately 22 kg/m³ using state-of-the-art preexpanders. For even lower densities, double pre-expansion or optimized pre-expanders are recommended.
Molding: Compatible with standard industry molding machines, HS321 offers flexibility in processing with a broad range of steaming settings. Care must be taken when using a regenerative agent to match the densities to prevent segregation during production.
Packaging and Storage: Supplied in 1000 kg net octabins on wooden pallets. These containers are not weatherproof and must be stored indoors and below 20°C, and used within one month to maintain optimal material properties.
Intermediate Aging: Recommended between 10 and 48 hours to achieve the desired properties.
 
Typical Properties
Expanded Density: Ranges from 18 to 30 kg/m³, offering versatility depending on the application requirements.
Bead Size: Consistently between 0.7-1 mm, with a minimum of 90% by weight falling within this range, ensuring uniformity in product application.
Pentane Content: 5.2% by weight, serving as the expansion agent.
Residual Monomer: Up to 500 ppm, indicating a low level of unreacted styrene, which is crucial for safety and quality.
K-Value: Typically around 55, reflecting the material's thermal resistance and insulation capacity.
 
Conclusion
HS321 from Tabriz Petrochemical Company offers robust solutions for those needing high-performance, expandable polystyrene for non-fire-retardant applications. Its superior molding capabilities, coupled with excellent mechanical properties and adaptability in processing, make it a top choice for manufacturers and engineers seeking efficient, reliable EPS solutions for packaging and insulation.