Carbon black improves pipe performance

Carbon black improves pipe performance

A new P-type carbon black for pressure pipe applications is now available from Cabot Corporation, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. ELFTEX P100® is claimed to offer improved particle size, compound moisture absorption, microscopic dispersion, and dispersability compared with existing grades, together with fewer chemical impurities.

According to Cabot, the fine primary particle size produces a higher ultraviolet (UV) light absorbing efficiency and better weathering performance than conventional carbon black. Problems associated with moisture absorption are significantly reduced, adds the company. With other carbon black products, it says moisture absorption can cause processing problems, surface defects and internal cavities in the finished part.

An improved microscopic dispersion compared with existing P-type blacks acts to reduce the risk of premature failure in the pipe wall and improve in-service flow performance. A low level of chemical impurities such as sulphur, ash and toluene extract stops the finished pipe imparting tastes or odours to drinking water.