Weight Loss During Lotion Manufacturing
Question
When making a 500g batch of lotion, there is a weight loss of 70-80g in the final filled product. What are the reasons for this weight loss? (Considering mixing time, heat usage, and volatile ingredients like Ethyl Alcohol or certain silicones).
Answer
Hello,
Regarding the weight loss observed when making lotion, it is common to experience some loss during the manufacturing process. The main reasons for this discrepancy between the initial total weight of ingredients and the final weight of the filled product are:
- Evaporation: This is often the primary cause. Volatile components in the formulation, such as water, alcohol, or certain types of silicones, can evaporate during the mixing process, especially if heat is applied or if mixing is done for an extended period.
- Product Residue: Some amount of the product will inevitably remain in the mixing vessel, transfer pipes, pumps, and filling equipment after the batch is completed. This residue contributes to the overall weight loss from the initial batch size.
- Measurement and Filling Variations: While less significant if proper procedures are followed, slight inaccuracies in weighing ingredients or variations in the filling process can also contribute to the difference.
The loss of 70-80g from a 500g batch (which is about 14-16%) is within a plausible range depending on the specific formulation, the processing temperature and time, and the type of equipment used. It is generally difficult to achieve a 100% yield from raw materials to finished, packaged product due to these factors.
Understanding these potential loss points can help in planning batch sizes and accounting for expected yield.
Hope this helps!