wicksunlimiteddbc1, Author at Wicks Unlimited

Discovering Different Candle Types in Celebration of World Candle Month

September 15, 2022September 15, 2022 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Wicks-Unlimited-candle-wick-sizes-768x512-2

As candles have evolved over the centuries, one thing has remained constant, their ever-growing popularity. The evolution of wax, wick, sustainer, and fragrance technology has enabled manufacturers to create candle systems that consumers know and love. To celebrate World Candle Month and the rich diversity of candles, the combustion experts at Wicks Unlimited decided to focus on the unique candle systems available today, along with basic combustion troubleshooting in a two part series. In part one of this series, Wicks Unlimited takes a deep dive into the different candle systems available on the market.

What is World Candle Month?

The NCA (National Candle Association) created World Candle Month in 2013 to “bring to light the various ways candles enrich our daily lives.” Their partners, ALAFAVE (Latin American Candle Manufacturers Association) and the ECMA (European Candle Manufacturers Association) have combined forces in 2022 to celebrate World Candle Month. Their goal is to unite candle lovers from across the globe, encourage industry collaboration, and drive candle awareness, sales, and safety. Wicks Unlimited is at the forefront of candle combustion technology and World Candle Month as a member of the NCA, ALAFAVE, and the ECA.

An Introduction to Candle Types

Pillar Candles

Pillar candles are long sturdy freestanding candles with a round, square or unique shape and one or more wicks at their center. Since pillar candles are freestanding, they must be manufactured from a rigid wax formulation. Candle manufacturers typically use a high melt paraffin wax with a melting point of or about 131 °F to provide rigidity and structural integrity for pillar candles. Other popular waxes for pillar candles include bees and palm wax. Some manufacturers even use special molds to create sleek or textured sides with unique scents to create an extra memorable candle experience. Whether the end-user places their pillar candle on the kitchen table or next to their hot tub, they look stunning in any setting as long as they are burned
safely.

Container Candles

Container candles derive their name from the method in which they are manufactured since the wax is poured into a non-flammable metal, glass, or ceramic container that also includes the wick. In other words, the wax is poured directly into the candle’s container for molding, storage, and eventual use. Many manufacturers rely on Wicks Unlimited’s innovative self-centering sustainers to increase production volume since it allows them “drop and pour,” saving time and money. Since container candles are not freestanding like pillar candles, candle manufacturers can use any number of different wax types, including soy, soy/paraffin blends, bees, and palm wax. Container candles are known for the size of their melt pool and consistent scent throw when manufactured from lower melting point waxes that can enhance scent throw. Consumers feel that they can customize their container candle experience by selecting a container and fragrance types that suit their personality and burn preferences.

Soy Candles

As the name suggests, this type of candle is made from 100% all-natural wax flakes manufactured from hydrogenated soybean oil. Due to changing consumer preferences, candle manufacturers now create different soy candles, including containers, votives, and even tea lights, due to soy’s surging popularity. Many consumers prefer soy candles since little to no black petro-soot is generated while burning compared to traditional paraffin-based waxes. Since soy wax has a lower melting point (124 °F) than paraffin-based waxes, end-users enjoy a candle that burns slower and longer. An additional benefit to soy’s lower melting point is the extra scent throw generated by the melt pool. It is worth mentioning that using wicks with special treatment in soy and other natural waxes is vital. While the correct wick for a particular candle will always depend on the type of wax, fragrance load and the candle’s diameter. RRD, HTP and wood wick are good starting points for candles with natural waxes.

Gel Candles

Consumers adore gel candles for their rich glow, and embedded decorative items such as glitter, small stones, and even tiny plastic toys to create a unique visual effect. The gel is composed of 95% mineral oil and 5% powdered polymer resin which manufacturers mix to make the gel with a consistency of Jell-0 with a melting point of roughly 275 °F.

To regulate the scent throw of gel candles, manufacturers select from three different grades (densities) of gel wax: high grade (High Polymer), medium grade (Medium Polymer), and low grade (Low Polymer). The high-grade (HP) gel is more rigid and can hold significantly more fragrance than the other two grades. Also, the additional rigidity enables manufacturers to embed heavier decorative items within the gel. Manufacturers often prefer the medium grade (MP) since it offers the best of both worlds. First, it is a firm gel that works well for most gel candle types and containers. Second, it can hold a decent amount of fragrance to create a good scent throw. Low-grade polymer (LP) is the least rigid of the three polymer grades and retains the least amount of fragrance. It is worth noting that gel candles manufactured from low polymer with embedded decorative items can shift during shipping.

*Wicks Unlimited does not promote or sell wicks for Gel Candles.

Tealight Candles

The humble tealight candle remains one of the most popular candle types among consumers because of its functionality, price point, and overall aesthetic. A tealight is comprised of a circular metal or plastic casing or cup for the wax, a 3.8 mm sustainer for the wick, and a wick. Consumers can choose from different wax options, including paraffin and soy, dye colors, and even scents for an individualized candle experience. Once the tealight is lit, its unique design allows the wax to liquify completely. Not all tealights are the same. Some manufacturers do not use a wick sustainer to anchor the wick. Instead, they rely on adhesive to anchor the wick to the casing or cup. Inadequate wick anchoring can cause the wick to float to the surface of the liquid wax, compromising the capillary action. The tealight’s beauty is in its simple design and soft, gentle glow.

Votive Candles

Votive candles are a close cousin of the tealight candle. Consumers adore votive candles for their warm glow, slow burn, and relaxed ambiance they create for religious offerings, overall decor, and emergencies. Although larger than tealights, votive candles are one of the smaller candles available. Votive candles feature a unique “bell-top” design that creates a channel around the circumference of the votive holder. The “bell-top” allows for an even fragrance distribution and scent through the melted wax. Depending on the manufacturer, votive candles are sold with or without the votive holder. Even though many votives are sold without the votive holder, this type of candle still requires a 3.8 mm sustainer to keep the wick upright and secure. Depending on the amount of fragrance, Aroma-Lite™, Stabilo, Stabilo KST, Paper Core, TL, and LX wick are popular votive wick options. Since votive candles often burn for several hours, manufacturers often use a lower melt point wax such as soy, palm, and beeswax, while some are manufactured from paraffin wax.

Candle Manufacturers Rely on Wicks Unlimited for All of Their Combustion Needs

No matter the candle type you are manufacturing, make sure to partner with Wicks Unlimited, the leading domestic based waxed wick on reels and candle sustainer manufacturer and supplier. No matter if you are manufacturing a pillar, container, soy, tealight, or votive candle, Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate candle combustion destination. With over 450 different candle wicks, including cored, flat, and square braided wicks, it is no wonder manufacturers depend on Wicks Unlimited.

In addition to waxed wick on reels, Wicks Unlimited offers twenty-five (25) unique metal wick sustainers with regular and safety neck heights that enable manufacturers to create tabbed wicks from waxed wick on reels. Now more than ever, candle manufacturers are customizing the candle’s end of life characteristics to create the ultimate candle experience with either puncture or non-puncture sustainer crimping to create the ultimate candle experience.

Everyday is World Candle Month at the Wicks Unlimited in-house wick optimization and combustion troubleshooting services department. Our experienced candle technicians work with sustainers and wicks for candle’s size, shape, dye, container type, and fragrance everyday. Take the guesswork out of selecting the right candle wick by using the contact form below or call to partner with Wicks Unlimited today. Check back soon to read part two of this two part series on an introduction to candle combustion troubleshooting in celebration of World Candle Month.

Waxed Wick On Reels: An Introduction

August 31, 2022July 26, 2022 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

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Candle manufacturers partner with Wicks Unlimited for waxed wick on reels to increase their manufacturing capacity when using, or transitioning to, high-speed “in-line” cut, tab, and glue machinery to create candle systems that drive repeat customers. Wicks Unlimited’s proprietary waxing process gently forces air out of the raw wick. This step, known as de-gassing, saturates the entire wick, including the core, with wax. As a result, the wick will burn more uniformly, consistently, and predictably while simultaneously making it more robust to work with during production. One of the main reasons high-volume manufacturers prefer Wicks Unlimited’s waxed wick on reels is that they feature minimal ends. In other words, the waxed wick on the reel is made from one continuous piece of wick with a start point and an endpoint. Manufacturers will appreciate the simplicity of minimal ends during production, while end-users will appreciate its burn characteristics.

To meet the specific requirements of your particular candle machinery, Wicks Unlimited’s waxed wick features up to 3,000 yards (2,743 meters) per reel. All our reels are made from high-strength recycled cardboard to help candle companies reduce their carbon footprint and meet their sustainability targets. Wicks Unlimited’s extensive candle wick portfolio is just the beginning. Whether you’re a candle manufacturer looking for a new domestic-based wick supplier, transitioning to new machinery, or away from hand cut & tab production to automated machinery, Wicks Unlimited partners with you every step.

Why Partner with Wicks Unlimited as Your Waxed Wick on Reels Supplier?

Migrating to Wicks Unlimited as your Premier Wick Supplier When candle manufacturers first migrate to Wicks Unlimited as their waxed wick supplier, our wick experts work with them to ensure production runs smoothly and efficiently. During the transition process, a dedicated Wicks Unlimited waxed wick specialist reviews any historical wick data from customer past records, including types and sizes and machinery type(s). After this review, Wicks Unlimited will send three standard waxed wick on reel size samples to ensure compatibility with your machinery. Rest assured that Wicks Unlimited’s waxed wick on reels are guaranteed to work with your specific machinery. Once sizing is confirmed, it is simple to place an order or to create a standing purchase order for waxed wick via email or over the phone.

Transitioning from Hand Cut & Tab to Automatic Machinery

Wicks Unlimited has helped hundreds of candle manufacturers transition to new machinery while minimizing production disruptions. The transition process is similar to when manufacturers first partner with Wicks Unlimited for waxed wick on reels. Once manufacturers select the specific machine for their production needs, Wicks Unlimited then works directly with the machinery manufacturer to ensure compatibility of our waxed wick on reels. In addition to working with the machinery manufacturer, the combustion experts at Wicks Unlimited, upon request, can review your wick selection to ensure optimal candle combustion. When production begins with the new machinery, manufacturers can focus on scaling production rather than worrying about the reel fitting the machinery or the candle’s burn characteristics. Wicks Unlimited handles those concerns during the transition process.

Access to Wicks Unlimited Technical Services

Whether you are a manufacturer developing a new candle or need combustion troubleshooting due to a change in your manufacturing process or supplier, Wicks Unlimited has you covered. Waxed wick on reel customers can access Wicks Unlimited’s state-of-the-art candle wick optimization and combustion lab to troubleshoot or solve any burn issues you are experiencing. Once our candle technicians understand your unique wick or candle combustion need, we begin comprehensive testing and analysis. After testing and analysis, we report our findings and make individualized wick and sustainer recommendations to help you find an optimized burn.

Access to Wicks Unlimited’s Make & Hold Program

Now more than ever, having a reliable U.S.-based waxed wick on reel manufacturer and supplier is vital for success. Wicks Unlimited customers participating in our Make & Hold program are guaranteed same or next-day shipping on their most critical candle components, including waxed wick on reels, wick-clip assemblies, and sustainers. Once candle manufacturers meet the minimum order quantities and are accepted for Wicks Unlimited’s Make & Hold program, they can then rely on it to solve just-in-time challenges, simplify their supply chain, and optimize production.

The Wicks Unlimited Difference

Creating a better candle experience for the end-user begins with partnering with a reliable waxed wick on reel domestic-based manufacturer and supplier, like Wicks Unlimited. With over 450 different candle wicks, including cored, flat, and square braided wicks, from leading manufacturers such as Atkins & Pearce, Wedo, and Sao Vitor available for waxing, it is no wonder candle manufacturers depend on Wicks Unlimited.

In addition to waxed wick on reels, Wicks Unlimited offers twenty-five (25) unique metal wick sustainers with regular and safety neck heights that enable candle manufacturers to create tabbed wicks from waxed wick on reels. To meet the burn preferences of the end-users at the candle’s end of life, manufacturers can select from either puncture or non-puncture sustainer crimping to create the ultimate candle experience. Wicks Unlimited also manufactures and supplies an innovative self-centering sustainer that enables candle manufacturers to “drop and pour,” and wick clip assemblies made to your exact wax and wick length specifications. Use the contact form below or call 954-946-3500 to speak with a team member to partner with Wicks Unlimited for waxed wick on reels.

Create a Better Candle Experience with Non-Puncture Candle Sustainers

May 10, 2022May 4, 2022 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Developing and creating a candle system that meets the specifications of the industry and the burn characteristics demanded by today’s consumer is challenging. Manufacturers have to consider the container size, wax formulation, wick type, sustainer type, scent throw, and burn characteristics close to or at the candle’s end of life. Those characteristics are essential since manufacturers want the end-user to have a positive experience with their candles.

Non-puncture-crimping — Sustainer with Non-Puncture Crimping

During the troubleshooting phase of candle development, common issues like overheating, heat transfer, and wick migration can appear since candle combustion is a complex process. To assist manufacturers, Wicks Unlimited developed non-puncture candle wick sustainers manufactured from the highest quality tin-coated steel. The tin coating inhibits corrosion which can be caused by the fragrance, dyes, and essential oils common in candles sold worldwide. Let’s explore how these non-puncture crimping candle sustainers work and how they can improve your next production run and the end-user experience.

Prevents Overheating: Candle systems using Wicks Unlimited safety neck candle sustainers with non-puncture crimping “shut off” at the end of their life, leaving unconsumed fuel (wax) while simultaneously preventing overheating. In comparison, metal candle sustainers with puncture crimping consume all the fuel (wax) right up to the candle’s end of life, generating additional heat. Candles with non-puncture crimping have an overall lower thermal profile at their end of life. As a result, heat transfer to the surface the candle is resting on is kept at a minimum since heat during this phase can be intense.

Reduces Heat Transfer to Adjacent Surfaces: Once a candle leaves the manufacturer and is purchased by an end-user, manufacturers no longer control how long it burns despite a warning label on the container. Heat transfer from candle combustion to adjacent surfaces, especially unsupervised candles on non-heat-resistant surfaces, increases heat transfer through conduction, convection, and radiation components. Heat transfer to surfaces is especially prevalent when the candle begins to reach its end of life when there is a deep melt pool and the flame is now positioned lower in the container. Since Wicks Unlimited’s non-puncture safety neck sustainers leave unconsumed fuel (wax) at the bottom of the container and “shut off” at the candle’s end of life, subsequent heat transfer to adjacent surfaces is greatly reduced.

Prevents Wick Migration: During the manufacturing process, manufacturers rely on industry standards and proprietary methods to adhere the sustainer to the bottom of the container using specially formulated high temperature, hot melt adhesive, or wick stickers. Wick migration is the process of the candle wick migrating or “creeping” off-center towards the sidewalls of the container. In the case of multi-wick candles, wicks can migrate closer to each other or farther apart during repeated burn cycles. The main culprit of wick migration is excessive heat, especially towards their end of life. High temperature at the end of life can soften the glue or wick sticker adhesive causing the sustainer to “slide” or migrate. To prevent wick migration caused by heat in single or multi-wick candle systems, non-puncture sustainers “shut off” the candle, leaving unconsumed fuel (wax) and keeping the wick sustainers centered.

The Wicks Unlimited Difference

Selecting metal candle sustainers with non-puncture crimping not only prevents overheating, heat transfer, and wick migration, but using them creates a better candle experience for the end-user. Wicks Unlimited combustion experts partner with candle manufacturers during the candle formulation or troubleshooting phase to solve combustion issues and make recommendations to ensure that your candle uses the appropriate metal wick sustainer to exceed your customers’ expectations.

In addition to non-puncture safety-length wick sustainers, Wicks Unlimited offers metal candle sustainers with puncture crimping that consume all the fuel (wax), an innovative self-centering sustainer that enables candle manufacturers to “drop and pour,” saving them both time and money. Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate destination for all of your combustion needs with over 450 different wicks stocked on-site, including cored and flat braided wicks, 24 different candle sustainers, and wick clip assemblies made to order to meet your exact wax and wick length specifications.

Connect in-person with a Wicks Unlimited team member at the 2022 World Candle Congress at the Sheraton New Orleans hotel in New Orleans, LA, May 16-19, at booth #800 to discuss sustainers with non-puncture crimping or any of our other candle combustion products for manufacturers. Use the form below to set an appointment with Wicks Unlimited at the World Candle Congress or to speak with a team member today.

What Are the Differences Between Non-Puncture and Puncture Crimping?

February 4, 2022January 31, 2022 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Wicks Unlimited developed two innovative crimping options to meet the performance demands of both candle manufacturers and end-users: non-puncture and puncture crimping. Non-puncture crimping enables candles to “shut off” while puncture crimping generates additional wax (fuel) flow that consumes all the fuel (wax) at the end of life, respectively. Both Non-puncture and puncturing crimping will help “shut off” the flame. The difference is that non-puncture will extinguish the flame as soon as it reaches the top of the neck. While all of Wicks Unlimited metal candle sustainers are manufactured from the highest quality tin-coated steel to inhibit corrosion caused by fragrance and essential oils, their end-of-life characteristics depend on their neck height and crimp type.

Metal Sustainers with Non-Puncturing Crimp

Wicks Unlimited signature non-puncturing crimping sustainer series enables manufacturers to develop candles that “shut off” at their end of life. This innovative sustainer design will meet all standard operating requirements for crimp hold. Candle manufacturers rely on non-puncture metal sustainers to reduce the overall thermal profile of a particular candle system to meet their customers’ preferences.

Non-puncture candle sustainer’s neck heights range from 6.0 mm and include safety neck sustainers with neck heights of 10.0 mm, 13.0 mm, 13.2 mm, and 14.5 mm to meet your specific safety requirements. Manufacturers can select from either 14.5 mm, 15.0 mm, or 20.0 mm base diameter(s). They can also take advantage of Wicks Unlimited’s wide selection of wick products since its wick insertion hole sizes include 2.1 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.8 mm, and 4.1 mm.

Signature series sustainers with non-puncturing crimp “shut off” at their end of life.
Available with neck heights of 6.0 mm, 10.0 mm, 13.0 mm, 13.2 mm, and 14.5 mm.
Signature series sustainers with a non-puncturing crimp are available with 14.5 mm, 15.0 mm, and 20.0 mm base diameter(s)
Wick insertion hole diameters range from 2.1 mm to 4.1 mm.
Non-puncture crimp sustainers are manufactured from .010″ (0.254 mm) thick tin-coated steel that helps inhibit corrosion.

Metal Sustainers with Puncture Crimping

Precision high-speed equipment creates a piercing in the sustainer’s wall generating additional (fuel) wax flow at the candle’s end of life. Metal sustainers with puncture crimping enable manufacturers to develop candles that consume all the fuel (wax) as opposed to non-puncture crimping that leaves unconsumed wax at the end of life, respectively. Wicks Unlimited innovative puncture crimping provides a tight wick grip and simultaneously increases the crimp’s overall tensile strength.

Metal sustainers with puncture crimping are available with neck heights of 6.0 mm and include safety neck sustainers with neck heights of 10.0 mm, 13.0 mm. 13.2 mm and 14.5 mm. Candle manufacturers can select base diameter(s) ranging from 14.5 mm to 20.00 mm. With wick insertion hole diameters ranging from 2.1 mm to 3.0 mm, manufacturers can choose from Wicks Unlimited’s diverse collection of wick products to meet their production requirements.

Metal sustainers with puncture crimping are Wicks Unlimited’s best-selling sustainer series.
Available with neck heights of 6.0 mm, 10.0 mm, 13.0 mm, 13.2 mm, and 14.5 mm.
Standard series sustainers are available with 14.5 mm, 15.0 mm, and 20.0 mm base diameter(s).
Wick insertion hole diameters range from 2.1 mm to 3.0 mm.
Manufactured from .010″ (0.254 mm) thick tin-coated steel that helps inhibit corrosion.
Sustainers with puncture crimping enable candles to consume all the fuel at the end of life.
High-speed equipment creates a piercing in the sustainer’s wall generating additional (fuel) wax flow at the candle’s end of life.

Creating a Better Candle Experience with the Appropriate Crimp Type

Take the guesswork out of selecting the appropriate sustainer crimp by partnering with the combustion specialists at Wicks Unlimited. We work with candle manufacturers during the candle formulation or troubleshooting phase to ensure their candle system uses the appropriate crimping option for optimal combustion. With over 450 different wicks stocked on-site, including cored and flat braided wick, 26 different candle sustainers, and an assortment of wick clip assemblies, Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate destination for all your combustion needs. Use the form below to contact Wicks Unlimited to discuss whether sustainers with non-puncture or puncture crimping are appropriate for your next production run.

What’s the Difference Between Regular and Safety Length Wick Sustainers?

December 7, 2021September 15, 2021 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

The candle-making process includes many different considerations such as the general use of the candle, wax type, scent profile, wick type, color, container type, the overall size, and which metal wick sustainer tab is appropriate. End-customers purchase candles for different reasons: candle power, scent throw, melt pool, and how much wax remains at the candle’s end of life. Candle manufacturers understand their customers’ preferences, two of them being the temperature of the candle’s base and the amount of wax remaining at the candle’s end of life. The candle combustion experts at Wicks Unlimited work with manufacturers to determine the appropriate metal wick sustainer for their specific candle system to meet their customers’ expectations. Let’s explore why Wicks Unlimited candle sustainers are preferred by leading candle manufacturers globally.

Metal Wick Sustainers

As a division of Stimpson, the leading global manufacturer of standard and special eyelets, Wicks Unlimited wick sustainers meet the latest international quality standards and management systems stipulated in ISO 9001:2015. Wicks Unlimited manufactures and supplies 24 different sustainers of varying base diameters, neck heights, and hole diameters. They are made from the highest quality tin-coated steel to inhibit corrosion often caused by fragrance and essential oils, featuring an industry-leading .010″ (0.254) metal thickness.

Safety vs. Regular Wick Sustainers | An Introduction

During the candle formulation or troubleshooting phase, Wicks Unlimited works with manufacturers to understand their combustion requirements and their customers’ expectations, especially how much wax remains on the bottom of the candle’s container. Wicks Unlimited offers 3.8 mm, 6.0mm, 10.0 mm, 13.0 mm, 13.2mm, 14.5mm, and custom wick sustainer lengths. The sustainer’s height determines the container’s base thermal profile, indicating an aggressive or a conservative system and the remaining amount of wax at the candle’s end of life. As a rule of thumb, sustainers above 10.0 mm can be considered safety sustainers, while sustainers below 10.0 mm are considered regular. It is important to note that the height of the neck determines how much wax remains on the container’s glass bottom at the candle’s end of life.

Creating a Better Candle Experience with the Appropriate Wick Sustainer

Take the guesswork out of selecting the appropriate wick sustainer by partnering with the combustion specialists at Wicks Unlimited. We work with candle manufacturers during the candle formulation or troubleshooting phase to ensure their candle system uses the appropriate metal wick sustainer for optimal combustion and to meet their customers’ expectations. In addition to regular and safety length wick sustainers, Wicks Unlimited offers an innovative self-centering sustainer that enables candle manufacturers to “drop and pour” , saving them both time and money. With over 450 different wicks stocked on-site including cored and flat braided wick, 26 different candle sustainers, and an assortment of wick clip assemblies, Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate destination for all of your combustion needs. Use the form below to contact Wicks Unlimited to discuss the different safety and regular candle wick sustainers available for your next production run.

Candle Wick Designations: What Do They Mean?

November 9, 2021February 28, 2021 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Even for the most experienced candle manufacturers, keeping up with the latest wick offerings and designations is a daunting task. Since each wick and candle has its own burn characteristics, the combustion experts at Wicks Unlimited compiled all of the wick designations inventoried to help manufacturers save time. Let’s explore the different candle wick designations available and their unique characteristics.

Cored Wicks

Paper Core Wick

Paper core wick remains one of the most popular wick options in the marketplace. Constructed of 100% natural fibers, the paper core wick features a cotton outer braid surrounding an inner paper filament. This wick type’s paper core enables the wick to remain rigid in the molten wax pool in various candle types, including in votives, pillars, and containers. Paper core wick’s burn characteristics make them ideal for slower-burning waxes, like soy that require additional heat for optimal combustion.

Zinc Core Wick

During pouring and burning, the Zinc core wick provides increased wick support since it is the most rigid of all cored wick. This wick type features a cotton outer braid of natural fibers surrounding a thin filament of zinc running up the wick’s center. Zinc core wick is known for its cool flame profile and its ability to remain upright in the molten wax pool. This wick is typically recommended for use in paraffin wax tealights, votive, pillar, and container candles.

Cotton Core Wick

Cotton core wick is made of braided cotton strands dipped in wax and then compressed to hold their shape. This wick type produces a reliable and robust flame with minimal carbon buildup. It is designed for use in votive, pillar, and container candle systems. Wicks Unlimited carries a variety of cotton core wick types.

HP-CNP Wick

HP-CNP is a cellulose-based wick with a rigid paper core for increased stability engineered to meet the demands of today’s complex wax formulations, especially those with high scent throws. This round-cored wick is known for its stable burn cycle characteristics and is designed explicitly for scented wax formulations.

Aroma-Lite™ Wick

Constructed of 100% natural fibers, the Aroma-Lite™ wick is designed explicitly for candles with high scent throws. By design, this cored wick is self-trimming and inhibits mushroom capping, often found in candles with high-levels of fragrance.

HP-N Wick

This self-trimming wick is often used in paraffin wax, palm, and soy candles. Since the HP-N is self-trimming this is an option for candles with heavily scented wax blends. Made of 100% cellulose fibers, the long strands of tightly braided cotton help reduce afterglow.

RRD Wick

RRD wick is a directional round wick featuring a 100% braided cotton core enabling the wick to curl slightly during the burn cycle. This wick series performs well with viscous fuels such as vegetable wax without clogging or drowning during capillary action. They are known within the candle industry for their consistent burn pool and flame profile in pillar and container candle systems with high fragrance loads.

Flat Braided Wicks

HTP Wick

HTP wick is a coreless, flat braided wick constructed from high-performance fibers and natural materials with a paper filament throughout. Engineered for those tough-to-burn applications, HTP wick features a paper filament throughout, providing a similar effect of paper core wick’s structural strength. This versatile wick offers a more predictable wick posture resulting in increased rigidity and the benefits of a self-trimming wick resulting in minimal mushrooming and soot. The burn characteristics of HTP wick make them appropriate for viscous wax types, including paraffin and vegetable formulations.

Ply Wick

Often referred to as flat, classic, or regular wick, Ply wick is a popular option for dipped, poured or extruded candles. This wick is constructed of 100% natural fibers and curls at the tip throughout the combustion cycle reducing carbon buildup during its lifespan for an even burn.

Stabillo/Stabillo KST Wick

Stabillo wick is a flat braided cotton wick series with paper filament thread woven into the braid for increased rigidity. The wick’s reinforced construction promotes a consistent capillary action in various waxes, including natural waxes and waxes with high scent throws. This wick series is ideal for candle systems such as tealight, votives, and pillars, where increased wick rigidity is essential.

ECO Wick

Made from ring-spun cotton interwoven with thin paper threads, the ECO wick series are known for their controlled curl during combustion and consistent burn profile. These self-trimming coreless wicks are appropriate for container candles and wax formulations with high scent throw. The design of this wick produces minimal afterglow and carbon deposit formation.

HP-NF Wick

HP-NF wick combines natural fiber’s burn characteristics and the hot throw characteristics of a cotton wick to create a high-performance flat wick. Constructed of tightly braided long strands of cotton and natural fibers, this versatile flat wick is used in paraffin, palm, soy, and heavily scented wax blends. Both HP-NF and HP-CNFW have their own rate charts but share burn characteristics.

HP-CNFW Wick

HP-CNFW wick is specifically geared towards citronella candle systems.This high–performance wick combines the natural fiber’s burn characteristics with the hot throw characteristics of a cotton wick to create a high-performance flat wick. Constructed of tightly braided long strands of cotton and natural fibers, this versatile flat wick is used in paraffin, palm, soy, and heavily scented wax blends including citronella.

HP-SP Wick

HP-SP wick is constructed from specially treated cotton and designed for pillar, taper, votive, and tealight candles. This wick is known for its superior scent throw and engineered to minimize soot and afterglow. Due to its slow-burning properties, it is excellent for a variety of waxes, including coconut wax. The all-natural cotton construction is lead and zinc-free.

LX Wick

LX wick features a specially flat braided coreless wick that curls throughout the burn cycle. This unique feature minimizes carbon buildup and reduces smoking since the curl moves to the flame’s highest heat concentration area. Added benefits of the curl are a tighter, more controlled flame profile and a self-trimming effect. Also, this wick series is lead and zinc-free.

TL Wick

Made from some of the thinnest high-grade ring-spun cotton threads available, TL wick is a specialty coreless flat wick. This wick series features stability threads braided throughout the wick for additional wick strength often required for in-line manufacturing. Due to the slow rate of wax consumption, along with a small flame profile, this wick is appropriate for tealights and votives.

FW “SU” Wick

The FW “SU” wick series is a flat braided coreless wick composed of natural fibers. This self-trimming wick is known for its consistent burn characteristics, minimal sooting, and low carbon buildup. Often found in taper and pillar candle systems, this wick works well in most paraffin wax formulations.

Square Braided Wick

Square Braided™

Initially constructed for beeswax, Square Braided wick ™ is constructed with 100% natural fibers and finished with chemical treatments to improve the candle’s overall burn qualities. Constucted to curl while burning, Square Braided wick™ performs well in various candle applications, including tealights, votives, pillars, and containers.

During the candle formulation or troubleshooting process, having a working knowledge of the different wick designations will not only help you in selecting the appropriate wick for your candle type but also ensures the experienced candle combustion specialists at Wicks Unlimited are on the same page as you when communicating by Zoom, phone or email. With over 450 different wicks stocked on-site, 26 different candle sustainers, and an assortment of wick clip assemblies, Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate destination for all of your combustion needs. Use the form below to contact Wicks Unlimited to discuss the different wick designations available for each unique candle system since no two burn cycles are the same.

Candle Burn Troubleshooting for Manufacturers

September 13, 2022January 27, 2021 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Candle-Combustion-Troubleshooting-WIcks-Unlimited

Candle manufacturers sometimes focus on appearance, scent, and aesthetics during the formulation process rather than performance and functionality to meet customers’ initial demands at the point-of-purchase. It is only after several burn cycles that customers begin to encounter entirely avoidable combustion issues. More often than not, candle combustion issues are caused by the incorrect wick size or family used in a particular candle since each wick and candle type has unique burn characteristics. Let’s explore some observable candle combustion issues often encountered and remedied in Wicks Unlimited’s in-house combustion workshop during the formulation process.

Mushroom Capping

An oversized wick providing too much fuel (wax) to the flame or using an incorrect wick size/type for a particular candle system can cause mushroom capping. If the candle wick is too large, the flame starts to consume more wax (fuel), resulting in carbon buildup on the wick’s tip of partially reduced molecules unable to reach the flame. The buildup of partially combusted material then falls back onto the wick. It forms a mushroom shape on the wick’s end, known as mushroom capping.

Mushroom capping can be avoided with thorough testing of your candle to determine the perfect wick for your individual candle formulation.

Afterglow

Mushroom capping often causes wick afterglow, whereby the carbon mass on the tip of the wick continues to throw off a gentle glow for a considerable amount of time once extinguished. Not only is this unsafe, but it can also damage the candle brand’s reputation.

Like most combustion issues, afterglow is entirely avoidable. To prevent this phenomenon, candle manufacturers should partner with combustion specialists like Wicks Unlimited early in the formulation process. Once we understand your burn objectives, we will perform test burns to ensure that the appropriate wick size and type meet the particular candle system’s needs.

Excessive Flame Height

An excessive flame causes “sooting” consisting of tiny particles of unburned fuel. This indicates not only incomplete combustion but also improper wick selection for this particular candle system. In other words, the candle wick is delivering more fuel to the flame than it can burn.

To prevent excessive flame, manufacturers should work with candle combustion specialists to complete burn tests and identify the appropriate wick size and type for their specific candle application to refine their manufacturing specs.

Excessive/Long Wick

Excessive or long wick modifies the candle’s overall combustion process and causes mushrooming, sooting, and an uneven burn. The soot sticks to the candle jar, surrounding walls, and potentially the ceiling resulting in an unhappy customer and damage to the brand’s image and reputation.

For an optimized burn and to protect the brand’s reputation, working with experienced candle combustion specialists can prevent excessive wick through test burns.

Oversized Wick

An oversized wick generates a larger than the average flame size that causes a deep burn pool liquifying a large portion of the candle. This type of wick causes sub-optimal combustion causing the wick to mushroom. An oversized wick also increases the candle’s surface temperature resulting in fragrance destruction, which greatly reduces the intended scent profile of your candle. A properly sized wick creates an appropriate burn pool according to the candle’s width with the correct flame height. Wicks Unlimited combustion specialists can identify an oversized wick during controlled burn testing. Once complete, our combustion technicians make appropriate wick recommendations based on various criteria, including the container’s width and scent combinations.

Undersized Wick

An undersized wick is a wick that is too small for a particular candle system and does not generate enough combustion (heat) to melt the wax, causing tunneling. While tunneling is most common in a large container and votive candles, it can also happen with other candle types and sizes. It is indicated by the burn pool not forming edge-to-edge and forming a circular “tunnel” around the wick down to the core of the candle. Candle tunneling and an unhappy end user are entirely avoidable by selecting the appropriate wick size to generate optimal candle combustion.

Partnering with experienced candle combustion specialists like Wicks Unlimited during the formulation process can prevent combustion issues from happening in the first place. Even if the formulation phase has passed and a candle is experiencing combustion issues during real-world applications, our candle technicians can perform a complimentary troubleshooting burn analysis. Once completed, we confidentially report our findings and make product recommendations, including the appropriate wick size and sustainer type to produce an optimized burn. With over 450 different wicks stocked on-site, 26 candle sustainers, and an assortment of wick clip assemblies, Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate destination for all of your combustion needs. Use the form below to contact Wicks Unlimited and schedule your confidential candle combustion troubleshooting or optimization test since testing and observation are vital in the candle formulation process.

What is the Difference Between Cored and Flat Braided Wick?

November 10, 2021November 9, 2020 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Wick is arguably the most essential and critical component of a candle. The wick provides fuel (wax) to the flame, working like a fuel pump drawing liquid wax up through the wick to the flame by a process known as capillary action, creating combustion. Aesthetically a candle wick is a bundle of fibers loosely twisted, knitted, or braided together depending on the particular wick type.

While there are various wick types and styles on the market, several factors impact the wick purchasing decision, such as wax type, candle size, color, fragrance, and shape. To follow is a brief explanation of the two most common wick types: cored or sometimes referred to as round wick and flat braided wick.

Different Types Of Wicks

Cored (Round) Wicks
Cored (round) wicks are often used in candles that need a self-supporting wick like votives, novelties, pillars, and containers. Round wick comes in a variety of core types, including paper, zinc, and natural cellulose fibers,. Within these wick types, zinc is more rigid than cotton and paper. It is recommended to utilize pre-waxed cored wick for increased rigidity.

Flat Braided Wicks
Another popular wick type are flat braided wicks, often used in pillar, taper and container candle systems. This braid type features a unique design that bends when flamed, providing a self-trimming wick effect while reducing the carbon at the top of the flame, allowing the candle to burn evenly.

Selecting the Ideal Wick for Your Candle System
When selecting the ideal wick type for your candle system, these factors impact your selection and the overall combustion:

Fuel (wax) type
The melting point of the wax
The diameter (size) of the candle
Candle’s shape
Candle’s design
The percentage and type of fragrance oil
The colorant percentage and type (powder, liquid, color block, dye chip)

When selecting the ideal wick for your candle, it is vital to pay attention to all of the components above that go into the design of the candle. Matching the right family of wick, and then the right size of the wick, is critical to optimize each candle’s unique properties. The best wick is the key element for each candle’s burning efficiency.

Benefits of Selecting the Right Wick
Selecting the proper wick enables candle manufacturers to provide their customers candle’s with the following benefits:

Steady flame size
Moderate temperature
Minimal, if any, blooming (carbon deposits)
Maximum efficient burn pool formation
Minimal after-glow once the candle is extinguished

Why Choose Wicks Unlimited?
Wicks Unlimited supplies premium pre-waxed candlewick for manufacturers to formulate candles with unique specifications that their customers want. With over 400 different wicks, 26 candle sustainers, and an assortment of wick clip assemblies, Wicks Unlimited is the ultimate destination for all of your combustion needs. Whether your candle system requires a cored or flat braided wick, all of our pre-waxed wicks are waxed onto an eco-friendly cardboard reel ideal for in-line tab, cut, and glue candle machinery.

Discover why candle manufacturers large and small across the globe rely on Wicks Unlimited for all of their combustion needs. Fill out the contact form below to learn more!

An Introduction to Candle Wick Sizing

November 10, 2021November 9, 2020 by wicksunlimiteddbc1

Selecting the correct candle wick family and then size, is the final and most essential part of the candle development process. Using the proper wick size drastically improves the candle’s overall combustion and has numerous benefits for both manufacturers and the end consumer.

Understanding Candle Wick Designations & Rate Charts: An Introduction
All candle wick braiders list their wicks for candle manufacturers in some type of chart format. These charts show all of the different wicks within one family generally listed from smallest to largest or vice versa. Braiders also try to give some context of the wicks burning properties through ROC (Rate of Consumption), Flame Height, and Burn Pool Diameter. These parameters are general guidelines and are not representative of how that wick will burn in any particular manufactured candle. There is no substitute for through burn testing to determine the best wick for each candle.

Selecting the Correct Wick Size
Determining which size candle wick is best for a particular candle type is dependent on a variety of factors. During Wicks Unlimited’s confidential candle wick size consultation, we begin the conversation by asking a few fundamental questions.

What is the diameter of the particular candle?
The diameter of the candle/container determines how large the burn pool needs to be for optimum performance. Whether it is a single wick or multiple wicks, the size of the wick controls the efficiency, safety, and quality of melting and burning the candles overall diameter.

What type of wax?
Different waxes, Soy, Paraffin, Palm, and blends, all require different capillary and burning properties from the wick. The wick’s thickness, braiding tension, construction material, and burning profile all need to be in sync with the waxes own specific melting and burning properties as well.

What types of fragrance oils and colors?
The quantity of the oil and color used in the candle also matters when selecting a wick size. In general, colorful candles with strong scents usually require much larger wicks or multi-wicks than those with less oil and color.

What is the expected burn time?
Burn time is directly affected by the type, size, and number of wicks in the candle. In general, when the candles combustion properties for safety and quality are optimized, so is the burn time.

Benefits of Selecting the Correct Wick Size
Using the correct wick size in your candle has numerous advantages for both manufacturers and the end-user.Uniform flame size, minimal or non-existent blooming (carbon deposits), and little to no afterglow once the candle is extinguished are just some of the correct wick size benefits.
Choosing the correct size wick is a crucial decision and is the first step in formulating a safe and well-performing candle. Wicks Unlimited supplies premium pre-waxed candle wick for manufacturers to create candles with unique specifications that their customers want. Schedule your confidential wick sizing consultation today with our industry experts to help you ensure that your candles burn safely, cleanly, and without excess soot or smoke.

Fill out the contact form below to schedule your confidential wick sizing consultation today!