I.The principle and process of production

Cold-process soap

  Cold soap is made under relatively low temperature conditions (generally around 40°C, or even lower), where the oils react with sodium hydroxide solution through saponification. First of all, various natural vegetable oils such as olive oil, coconut oil, palm oil, etc., as well as sodium hydroxide and water need to be precisely weighed. Sodium hydroxide is dissolved in water to make an alkaline solution. When the temperatures of both the alkaline solution and the oils drop to the appropriate range, the alkaline solution is slowly poured into the oils. Then, continuous stirring begins. As the stirring proceeds, the soap solution gradually thickens. When it reaches the "Trace" state, that is, when the surface of the soap solution leaves a distinct trace when stirred and does not disappear quickly, the soap solution is poured into molds. Afterwards, let the soap solution stand in the molds for more than one day to solidify and take shape. Finally, remove it, cut it into pieces, and undergo a soap-drying process for more than four weeks. During this process, the saponification reaction continues, the pH value of the soap solution is reduced, and finally cold soap is made.

Hot-process soap making

  Hot soap making is carried out at a relatively high temperature (usually above 60°C, even up to 80 - 100°C). Just like preparing the raw materials such as oils, sodium hydroxide and water first, mix the oil with the sodium hydroxide solution, and then heat it with the aid of heating equipment (such as electric kettles, etc.) while constantly stirring to accelerate the saponification reaction. Due to the high temperature, the saponification reaction speed is accelerated, and the reaction can generally be completed within a few hours to a few days. After the reaction is completed, stir immediately and mold the soap, without the need for a long time of drying the soap. It can be used immediately after the production is completed. 

II.Comparison of Process Characteristics

 Production time

Cold-process soap:The production cycle is lengthy. From the mixing and blending stage to the final product, the saponification and maturation processes alone take several weeks. Adding the preparatory work in the early stage and the post-processing in the later stage, it usually takes about two months before it can be put on the market for sale.

 Hot soap making :High production efficiency and short production cycle. Usually, the production can be completed within a few days or even a few hours, greatly shortening the production time and enabling quick satisfaction of market demands.

Cost and capital cost

Cold-process soap:Due to the long production cycle, high raw material costs, numerous production links and large investment in fixed assets, the capital cost is relatively high, and the product prices are also relatively expensive. The products are mainly targeted at the high-end market.

 Hot soap making :The production cycle is short, the cost of raw materials is low, the process is relatively simple, and thus the cost is also lower. The price is more accessible to the public. It is more common in the market and widely distributed in various mass-market soap products.

III. Target Audience and Application Scenarios

Cold-process soap:Suitable for those who pursue natural and mild skincare, pay attention to skin care, and have sensitive or dry skin. For example, when cleansing the face and taking a bath, using cold-processed soap can not only clean the skin but also nourish it. It is also suitable to be given as a gift to friends who pursue a high quality of life.

Hot soap making:Suitable for people with oily skin, it is used for deep cleansing on a daily basis. For example, when there is excessive oil secretion on the back and acne is prone to occur, the hot soap can help remove oil and prevent acne. In some scenarios where high cleanliness is required, such as after intense exercise when there is a lot of sweating, using the hot soap can quickly wash away dirt.

Choosing us is not merely choosing a precise and efficient soap production equipment, but also choosing professional escort throughout the entire life cycle. From customized solution design to after-sales response, from intelligent upgrade and iteration to optimization of green production processes, we always take customer needs as the anchor point, using technological innovation and meticulous services to help your soap production line unleash its unlimited production capacity value. We look forward to working with you and making every mechanical operation a moment when industry benchmarks are born.https://www.zhsoapmachinery.com/