A complete analysis of the applicability of water-based defoamers and oil-based defoamers
May 22, 2025Defoamers are indispensable additives in industrial production. They are mainly divided into two categories: water-based defoamers and oil-based defoamers according to system compatibility. This article will systematically analyze the differences in ingredients, action mechanisms, and typical application scenarios between the two, and provide selection guidance.
1. Sewage treatment system
Activated sludge process: Control biological foam in aeration tank (polyether modified type is best)
MBR membrane treatment: Select low-viscosity defoamers that do not affect membrane flux
Case: After a municipal sewage plant uses polyether defoamers, the foam thickness is reduced by 80%
2. Water-based paint/ink
Construction defoaming: Eliminate bubbles generated by latex paint roller coating
Formula recommendation: Addition amount 0.1-0.5%
Note: Compatibility testing is required to avoid shrinkage
3. Food processing
Fermentation industry: Food-grade polyether defoamers for beer/soy sauce fermentation tanks
Sugar solution concentration: Inhibit foam during evaporation
4. Other typical applications
Papermaking white water circulation system
Industrial cleaning agents (especially alkaline cleaning fluids)
Water-based adhesive production
1. Petrochemicals
Crude oil degassing: Solve the foam problem of the vacuum tower (silicone oil-based products)
Lubricant production: Control the foam during the blending process
Data: Degassing efficiency increased by 35% after use in a refinery
2. Oil-based coatings/resins
Epoxy system: Eliminate bubbles during casting (high temperature resistant type required)
UV curing ink: Choose varieties that do not affect the curing rate
3. Metalworking fluids
Cutting oil: Suppress the foam generated by high-pressure injection
Rolling oil: Maintain a stable lubricating film (low addition of 0.05-0.2%)
4. Special industrial scenarios
Asphalt modification production process
Solvent-based adhesives
Ink printing machine circulation system