Plan a trial for your application
Metal degreasing
Use the actual oil soil and steel coupons to compare degreasing efficiency and residue after rinsing.
Builders for powder detergents
Compare dissolution rate, alkalinity and formulation moisture uptake.
Purchase specifications and incoming inspection
Use these properties to compare grades within the product family. Example figures refer to the cited grade or source. Confirm the offered specification, packaging and lead time in the quotation. Silmaco Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate ↗
| Property | Unit | Published or agreed specification | Test conditions and checks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydration state | Chemical composition | Agree for the grade and end use | Check whether the commercial product is anhydrous or hydrated, and verify its label. |
| Total alkalinity | % by mass | Agree for the grade and end use | Express as Na₂O on an as-received basis. |
| Insoluble matter | % by mass | Agree for the grade and end use | Keep water temperature, solution concentration and filtration method constant. |
When approving a sample, record the grade, methods, limits and specification revision. On receipt, match the packing lot number to the lot-specific COA and record the measured values and release decision.
From samples to commercial delivery
Packaging and receiving
Specify hydrate, net weight, moisture-resistant inner bag and outer label.
Storage and handling
Check transit and shelf life against the SDS for the supplied form. Inspect for caking on arrival.
Sample and order lead times
State the concentration or hydrate, initial net quantity, destination and unloading method. Confirm minimum order, pallet or truckload quantity, dispatch point and arrival date separately.
Questions from the plant
Why did bath alkalinity drop after switching grades?
Check for a change from anhydrous to pentahydrate. Recalculate on effective alkalinity.
What causes white marks on the surface?
Check water quality, rinsing and concentration. Compare residue on the same substrate.
Report a delivery or batch issue
Include the order number, lot number from the package, label photos and inspection records for the affected lot. When retesting, check Hydration state, Total alkalinity, Insoluble matter.
Request documents for your application
TDS · Technical data sheet
For grade selection and sample approval, specify the grade and revision required.
SDS · Safety data sheet
Specify the country or region of use and the required language.
COA · Certificate of analysis
Request a sample COA during supplier review. For incoming inspection, provide the actual lot number.