Choosing the Right Polyolefin Additive for Mold Release and Internal Lubrication

How Kemamide® Fatty Amides Improve Processing Efficiency and Part Quality 

 

In polyolefin processing, selecting the right additive package can significantly impact melt flow, mold release, surface quality, and cycle time. Among the most widely used and trusted solutions are Kemamide® fatty amide additives, which provide a balanced combination of internal lubrication and controlled mold release in polyethylene and polypropylene systems. 

This article explains how fatty amides work, when to use them, and how to choose the right option for your polyolefin formulation.

Why Mold Release and Internal Lubrication Matter in Polyolefins

During extrusion and injection molding, polyolefins are exposed to high shear and thermal stress, which can lead to the following:

  • High melt viscosity and torque 
  • Poor flow and incomplete mold filling 
  • Part sticking or difficult demolding 
  • Surface defects and inconsistent finish 
  • Longer cycle times and reduced throughput 

Oleochemical additives like Kemamide® improve internal lubrication and mold release properties without compromising the mechanical performance of the polymer. 
 

The Difference Between Internal vs. External Lubrication

Internal Lubrication Additives 


Internal lubricant additives reduce intermolecular friction within the polymer melt, improving chain mobility and melt flow. 

Here are some of their performance benefits: 
  • Lower melt viscosity 
  • Reduced shear stress 
  • Improved filler and pigment dispersion 
  • More stable processing conditions 

External Lubrication Additives 


Mold release additives migrate in a controlled manner to the polymer–metal interface, reducing adhesion between the part and tooling. 

Performance benefits include the following: 
  • Easier demolding 
  • Reduced part damage 
  • Cleaner mold surfaces 
  • Shorter cycle times 

       

The most effective additives provide both functions in a controlled, predictable way. 
 

How Kemamide® Fatty Amides Work 


Kemamide® fatty amides function as slip and lubrication additives that integrate into the polyolefin matrix while offering controlled surface activity. At processing temperatures, Kemamide® provides these benefits: 
  • Improve melt flow because of internal lubrication 
  • Reduced friction at the mold surface 
  • Clean, consistent part release 
  • Minimized processing variability 
 
Kemamide® plastic additives are especially valuable in PP and PE compounding and molding applications. These benefits make Kemamide® a reliable choice for both high-speed polyolefin production and complex molded geometries. 

 

Ready To Improve Your Polyolefin Processing? 


Fill out the form to the right to talk to a specialist today if your polyolefin formulation requires better mold release, smoother melt flow, and consistent processing. Kemamide® fatty amides provide a proven, formulation-friendly solution. 

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