WP526 is a high-performance expandable polystyrene (EPS) from the TPC Performance range offered by Tabriz Petrochemical Company. Known for its free-flowing properties, WP526 is specially formulated for applications that require fine detail and high dimensional stability.
 
Product Description
Type: Expandable Polystyrene (EPS)
Characteristics: Consists of spherical polystyrene beads that incorporate pentane as the expansion agent. WP526 is designed to be expanded to low densities, suitable for final applications that demand precision and light weight.
Bead Size: The small bead size (0.3-0.5 mm, with over 90% by weight falling within this range) is ideal for producing very thin-wall products and contributes to the material’s excellent flow and filling properties during molding.
 
Key Applications
Shape Molding: Particularly effective in detailed mold applications due to its ability to fill intricate designs and maintain a high-quality surface finish.
Cups and Thin-Wall Products: Due to its small bead size and waterproof characteristics, WP526 is perfect for manufacturing items like disposable drinking cups, where water resistance and precision are crucial.
 
Packaging and Storage
Packaging: WP526 is shipped in jumbo bags or octabins placed on wooden pallets, each containing 1000 kg of material. These containers are not weather or waterproof, requiring indoor storage.
Storage Conditions: To retain optimal properties, the material should be stored below 20°C and processed within one month from delivery.
 
Processing Guidelines
Pre-expansion: Capable of being pre-expanded to densities around 25 kg/m³ with state-of-the-art pre-expanders. Lower densities are achievable through double pre-expansion or using optimized machines.
Molding: WP526 can be molded within a wide range of steaming settings on standard industry molding machines. If a regenerative agent is used, it must closely match the pre-expansion density to avoid segregation during production.
Intermediate Aging: Requires 10 to 48 hours to reach the desired properties before final molding.
 
Typical Properties
Expanded Density: Typically around 20 kg/m³, making it suitable for lightweight applications.
Pentane Content: 5.2%, which aids in the material's expansion during processing.
Residual Monomer: Less than 1000 ppm, ensuring purity and safety, especially in food contact applications.
K-Value: 55, indicating moderate thermal insulation properties suitable for various applications.
 
Food Contact Compliance
WP526 has received food contact approval, making it suitable for applications that involve direct contact with food items, further emphasizing its safety and versatility.
 
Summary
WP526 from Tabriz Petrochemical Company is a versatile and efficient EPS solution for manufacturers seeking a reliable and high-quality material for detailed and lightweight applications. Its unique properties make it ideal for a wide range of uses, including protective packaging and disposable consumer products, where precision, light weight, and aesthetic quality are essential. This material combines excellent molding capabilities with compliance to food safety standards, making it a preferred choice in various industries.