ProBlend 550 Paraffin Wax Vs. IGI 6006 Paraffin/Soy Blend Wax
Choosing the right wax is crucial for candle makers seeking to create high-quality products with optimal performance. In this comparison, we’ll examine two popular options in the candle making industry: ProBlend 550, a refined paraffin wax, and IGI 6006, a paraffin-soy blend. Both waxes have dedicated followings among crafters, but they offer different characteristics that may make one more suitable than the other depending on your specific candle making needs.
Comparison Methodology
To provide a thorough analysis of these two waxes, we’ll evaluate them across several key factors that matter most to candle makers:
1. Composition and formulation
2. Melting point and working temperature
3. Scent throw capabilities
4. Container adhesion and appearance
5. Burn performance and quality
6. Ease of use and workability
7. Cost-effectiveness and availability
8. Environmental considerations
Our assessment is based on manufacturer specifications, crafter experiences, and industry standards for candle making waxes.
Wax Composition and Formulation
ProBlend 550 Paraffin Wax
ProBlend 550 is a fully refined food-grade paraffin wax that contains no additives. It comes in convenient granule form, making it easier to measure and melt than slab formats. As a pure paraffin product, it offers the traditional benefits associated with paraffin waxes, including excellent scent throw and consistent performance.
Key characteristics:
– 100% refined paraffin formulation
– No additives or blending agents
– Food-grade quality
– Granular form for easy handling
IGI 6006 Paraffin/Soy Blend Wax
IGI 6006 is a specialty blend combining paraffin with soy wax, designed specifically for container candles. This hybrid formulation aims to harness the superior scent throw of paraffin while incorporating some of the natural, renewable aspects of soy.
Key characteristics:
– Blend of paraffin and soy components
– Specifically formulated for container applications
– Balanced properties from both wax types
– Typically comes in flake or slab form
| Feature | ProBlend 550 | IGI 6006 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Material | 100% Paraffin | Paraffin/Soy Blend |
| Form | Granules | Flakes/Slabs |
| Additives | None | Proprietary blend components |
| Primary Use | Versatile (containers, pillars, votives) | Container candles |
| Natural Content | 0% (petroleum-derived) | Partial (contains some soy) |
Performance Characteristics
Melting Point and Working Temperature
The melting point of a wax determines how it will be handled during production and affects its burn performance in the finished candle.
ProBlend 550 has a melting point range of approximately 130-135°F (54-57°C), which is typical for paraffin waxes. This relatively low melting point makes it easy to work with using standard candle-making equipment.
IGI 6006 has a slightly higher melting point, typically around 125-130°F (52-54°C), due to its soy content. This can provide some advantages in warmer climates where candle stability might be a concern.
Scent Throw Capabilities
Scent throw refers to how effectively a candle disperses fragrance, both when lit (hot throw) and unlit (cold throw).
ProBlend 550 excels in scent throw capability, which is a hallmark of paraffin waxes. It tends to release fragrance oils efficiently and projects scent well throughout a room. When paired with fragrances like Sage White Tea (mentioned in the search results), it can create a powerful aromatic experience.
IGI 6006 offers good scent throw that benefits from its paraffin component while being slightly moderated by the soy content. Many crafters find it provides a clean, consistent fragrance release that works well with a wide range of scent profiles.
Container Adhesion and Appearance
How a wax adheres to containers and its visual qualities significantly impact the final product’s aesthetic appeal.
ProBlend 550, being a pure paraffin, can sometimes exhibit slight shrinkage when cooling, which may cause pulling away from container walls. However, its smooth, glossy finish is appealing to many consumers.
IGI 6006 generally offers excellent container adhesion due to its soy component, which helps the wax grip container walls more effectively. It typically produces a smooth surface with minimal frosting or wet spots, making it popular for container candles where appearance matters.
| Performance Aspect | ProBlend 550 | IGI 6006 |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | 130-135°F (54-57°C) | 125-130°F (52-54°C) |
| Hot Throw (Scent) | Excellent | Very Good |
| Cold Throw (Scent) | Strong | Moderate to Strong |
| Container Adhesion | Moderate (may show shrinkage) | Excellent |
| Surface Finish | Smooth, glossy | Smooth with minimal frosting |
| Fragrance Load Capacity | 8-10% | 6-10% |
Burn Characteristics and Quality
Burn Time and Efficiency
ProBlend 550 typically burns at a moderate rate, providing good value in terms of burn time. As a pure paraffin, it tends to have a consistent burn rate throughout the life of the candle.
IGI 6006 often delivers slightly longer burn times due to its soy content, which typically burns more slowly than paraffin. This can be an advantage for candle makers looking to maximize the longevity of their products.
Flame Quality and Stability
ProBlend 550 produces a bright, consistent flame characteristic of paraffin waxes. It responds well to proper wicking and typically maintains flame stability throughout the burn.
IGI 6006 tends to produce a slightly more moderate flame that still provides good illumination. The soy component can contribute to a more even burn pool formation, which many crafters appreciate for container applications.
Smoke and Soot Production
ProBlend 550, when properly wicked and used with quality fragrance oils, produces minimal smoke. However, as with all paraffin waxes, it may generate more soot than plant-based alternatives if not properly formulated.
IGI 6006 often produces less visible soot than pure paraffin options due to its soy content, making it appealing to crafters concerned about cleaner burning properties.
Practical Considerations
Ease of Use and Workability
ProBlend 550’s granular form makes it exceptionally easy to measure and melt. It typically flows well and sets up with predictable results, making it suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike.
IGI 6006 is also user-friendly but may require slightly more attention to temperature control during melting and pouring due to its blended nature. Its flake or slab form is still convenient for most candle making setups.
Cost-Effectiveness and Availability
| Economic Factor | ProBlend 550 | IGI 6006 |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost (10lb) | $20-25 | $25-30 |
| Cost per Candle | Lower | Slightly Higher |
| Availability | Widely available (e.g., The Flaming Candle) | Widely available from specialty suppliers |
| Minimum Order Quantities | Available in small quantities | Available in small quantities |
| Bulk Pricing Benefits | Significant savings at 50lb+ | Moderate savings at 50lb+ |
ProBlend 550 is typically more economical than IGI 6006, making it attractive for high-volume production or budget-conscious crafters. It’s readily available from suppliers like The Flaming Candle, as mentioned in the search results.
IGI 6006 comes at a slightly higher price point due to its specialty blended formulation. However, many crafters find the additional cost justified by its performance characteristics, particularly for premium container candles.
Environmental Considerations
ProBlend 550, being 100% paraffin-based, is derived from petroleum byproducts. This raises some environmental concerns for crafters and consumers focused on sustainability and renewable resources.
IGI 6006 contains some renewable soy content, making it a partial step toward more sustainable options. However, it still contains significant paraffin components, so it represents a compromise rather than a fully eco-friendly alternative.
Pros and Cons Summary
ProBlend 550 Paraffin Wax
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent scent throw | Petroleum-derived (non-renewable) |
| Easy to work with (granular form) | May show some container adhesion issues |
| More economical pricing | Potentially higher soot production |
| Versatile applications | Less appealing to eco-conscious consumers |
| Consistent performance | Slightly shorter burn time than blends |
IGI 6006 Paraffin/Soy Blend Wax
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent container adhesion | Higher cost than pure paraffin |
| Good scent throw | Still contains non-renewable components |
| Longer burn times | May require more precise temperature control |
| Reduced soot production | Less versatile (primarily for containers) |
| Partially renewable content | Slightly more complex to work with |
Best Use Scenarios
When to Choose ProBlend 550
ProBlend 550 is ideal for:
– Crafters prioritizing maximum scent throw
– Budget-conscious candle makers
– Projects requiring versatility across different candle types
– Beginners looking for easy handling and consistent results
– High-volume production where cost efficiency matters
– Applications where a bright, vibrant flame is desired
When to Choose IGI 6006
IGI 6006 is preferable for:
– Container candle specialists seeking excellent glass adhesion
– Crafters wanting a balance between performance and sustainability
– Premium candle lines where appearance is paramount
– Products marketed with partial natural content claims
– Applications where longer burn times add value
– Environments where cleaner burning properties are emphasized
Final Verdict
Both ProBlend 550 and IGI 6006 are quality waxes that serve different segments of the candle making community effectively.
For maximum fragrance performance and cost-efficiency: ProBlend 550 is the superior choice, offering excellent scent throw, easy handling, and versatility at a more economical price point. Its fully refined, food-grade quality ensures consistent results that will satisfy crafters focused primarily on performance.
For premium container candles with balanced properties: IGI 6006 offers advantages in container adhesion, appearance, and burn characteristics that make it worth the additional investment. Its partial soy content also provides a selling point for consumers with moderate environmental concerns.
For beginners: ProBlend 550’s granular form and straightforward working properties make it slightly more accessible, though both waxes are suitable for those new to candle making.
For established businesses: Consider offering products made with both waxes to serve different customer segments and price points within your product line.
Ultimately, your choice between these two quality waxes should align with your specific priorities regarding performance characteristics, production costs, and target market preferences. Many successful crafters even keep both in their arsenal, selecting the appropriate wax based on the specific requirements of each project.