TOTM and TOTM ST-0.4: selecting the appropriate grade
When comparing TOTM with a stabilized TOTM grade, the product specification matters alongside the chemical base. Membership of the same plasticizer family does not make two grades interchangeable in every formulation.
When comparing TOTM with a stabilized TOTM grade, the product specification matters alongside the chemical base. Membership of the same plasticizer family does not make two grades interchangeable in every formulation.
Read ST-0.4 correctly
The Plastay product page specifies a maximum stabilizer content of 0.4% for Optafleks TOTM ST-0.4. This is not the total stabilizer dosage in the finished PVC formulation. Nor does an upper limit mean that every batch contains exactly 0.4%. Request the current TDS and application-specific explanation from the technical team.
Consider all formulation additives
Do not assess stabilization supplied with the plasticizer independently of the existing formulation. Consider the PVC resin, other plasticizers and stabilizer package together. Do not assume the ST grade eliminates the need for the existing PVC stabilizer system; final dosage and package selection require controlled evaluation.
When changing grades, record the product code, batch documents and change date. An undocumented substitution under the same formulation code makes later colour or processing differences difficult to trace.
What should the comparison trial record?
- The existing formulation and full candidate plasticizer code.
- Mixing sequence, temperature, duration and production settings.
- Initial colour, surface appearance and target hardness.
- Heat-ageing and mechanical results required by the application.
- Acceptance criteria and changes recommended by the technical team.
Do not interpret a raw-material property such as flash point as the finished PVC part's continuous service temperature. These properties serve different purposes. Use the applicable specification and test conditions for the finished cable, hose or other part.
What information helps a sample request?
Share the current TOTM grade, stabilizer package and problem to be solved. State initial colour, prolonged thermal stability or production consistency as separate goals. Verify the technical team's recommendation in a controlled comparison and document the grade-selection decision.
Related products and technical evaluation
Optafleks TOTM — TOTM high-temperature plasticizer
Assess long-term heat ageing, mass loss and retention of mechanical properties together. TOTM viscosity may affect processing and mixing conditions. The raw material's flash point is not the continuous service temperature of the finished PVC article; validate temperature ratings through finished-product tests.
Discuss your application with the technical team →Optafleks TOTM ST-0.4 — Stabilized TOTM plasticizer
Evaluate ST-0.4 as a distinct grade rather than assuming it is identical to standard TOTM. Check stabilizer content, other stabilizers in the formulation and thermal targets together. Confirm dosage and processing conditions using the TDS and a production trial.
Discuss your application with the technical team →
