Color concentrate, dry color, and pre-color are all methods of adding color to plastics in the color compounding process, but they differ in their form and how they are incorporated into the plastic:
1.Color Concentrate: Color concentrate, also known as liquid color or color masterbatch, is a concentrated mixture of pigments or dyes dispersed in a carrier resin. It is typically in liquid or pellet form and is added to the base resin during the compounding process. Color concentrate offers precise color control and uniform dispersion, making it suitable for achieving consistent colors in a wide range of applications.
2.Dry Color: Dry color, also known as powder color or dry pigment, is a finely ground pigment or dye that is mixed with the base resin in powder form. Dry color is often used in applications where liquid colorants are not suitable or where cost-effectiveness is important. It can be added to the base resin during the compounding process or used in combination with other additives to achieve the desired color.
3.Pre-color: Pre-color, also known as pre-colored resin or pre-colored compound, is a ready-to-use colored resin that has been pre-compounded with colorants and additives. Pre-color eliminates the need for additional colorant blending during processing, simplifying the compounding process and reducing the risk of color inconsistencies. Pre-color is often used in applications where color consistency and ease of use are incredibly important, such as in the production of consumer goods or packaging.
The choice between these methods depends on factors such as the desired color quality, cost considerations, and the specific requirements of the application. Color concentrate provides precise color control and uniform dispersion, making it suitable for applications where color consistency is critical. Dry color offers cost-effectiveness and versatility, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications. Pre-color simplifies the compounding process and ensures color consistency, making it ideal for applications where ease of use is important.