Process oil

Buyers must prioritize viscosity (measured at 40°C or 100°C), flash point, and aniline point. For rubber and plastic industries, the aromatic, naphthenic, or paraffinic content (PCA content) is critical as it determines compatibility with specific polymers. Ensure the oil has low volatility to prevent mass loss during high-temperature processing.

Verify that the product is REACH compliant (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), especially for the EU market. For rubber applications, ensure the oil is Low PCA (Polycyclic Aromatics) or TDAE (Treated Distillate Aromatic Extract) to meet EU Directive 2005/69/EC, which restricts the use of carcinogenic substances in tires and rubber goods.

Paraffinic oils are best for butyl rubber and EPDM due to their oxidation stability. Naphthenic oils are preferred for footwear and industrial hoses because of their excellent color stability and solvency. Aromatic oils (or safe alternatives like RAE/TDAE) are primarily used in tire manufacturing to improve grip and wear resistance.

Request a COA (Certificate of Analysis) for every batch. Key indicators to check include color (ASTM D1500), density, and pour point. For high-end applications, ask for GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) reports to ensure the absence of hazardous impurities.

Process oil is typically shipped in ISO Tanks, Flexibags, or 200L steel drums. If using Flexibags, ensure the supplier uses high-quality, multi-layer food-grade or industrial-grade PE to prevent leakage. Always confirm the HS Code (typically 2710.19) with your customs broker to determine applicable tariffs and import duties.

Since process oil prices are tied to crude oil indices (like Brent or WTI), consider negotiating a formula-based pricing model for long-term contracts. Request tiered pricing based on volume (e.g., 20ft FCL vs. 40ft FCL) and clarify who bears the cost of third-party inspections (SGS or Intertek) at the loading port.

Utilize Secure Payment services provided by reputable platforms like Made-in-China.com to ensure funds are only released upon proof of shipment. Avoid direct wire transfers to unknown accounts. For new suppliers, start with a trial order of one container to verify the logistics chain and product consistency.

Beyond the standard Invoice and Packing List, you must obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) in the language of the destination country. Ensure the Bill of Lading (B/L) clearly states the chemical description and that the Certificate of Origin is provided to leverage any Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between China and your country.