Bulk Microcrystalline Wax Blocks - Spec 175 Grade 7030
Bulk Microcrystalline Wax Blocks — Spec 175 Grade 7030
Our bulk microcrystalline wax in solid block form (Spec 175 Grade 7030) — a versatile, high-performance wax widely used across cosmetics, candle making, encaustic art, lost-wax casting, leather conditioners and beekeeping. Microcrystalline is more flexible, stickier, has higher tensile strength, more adhesion and a higher melt point than paraffin wax. Shipped Australia-wide.
What you can use it for
- Cosmetics & skin care — lip balms, hand creams, lotions, hair products (very common use)
- Candle making (additive) — typically blended 5–15% to harden candles, improve gloss and reduce dripping
- Encaustic painting & wax art
- Lost-wax casting & sculpting — jewellery and modelling
- Leather conditioners, polishes, adhesives and sealants
- Industrial coatings, rubber and tire compounding
- Beekeeping — wax-dipping hive boxes for preservation and AFB/EFB sterilisation (see below)
Specifications
- Grade: Spec 175 Grade 7030 microcrystalline wax
- Melt point: ~77–82°C (higher than paraffin)
- Solid block format (also available as pellets/beads for easier melting)
Safety
Heated wax is flammable. Never leave heating wax unattended. Fully refined microcrystalline wax has a flash point of around 230°C, and once ignited it must not be doused with water — water causes a wax fire to spread or splatter violently. Smother with a metal lid or use a dry-chemical or Class K extinguisher. Always use a thermometer to keep the wax well below its flash point, wear heat-resistant gloves and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the manufacturer's SDS for your specific product.
For beekeepers: wax dipping
Hot wax dipping preserves beehive woodware and can sterilise some AFB-infected equipment — the wax soaks into the timber, replaces moisture, and pathogens are either killed by the heat or encapsulated in the wax. Microcrystalline wax can be used on its own or blended with paraffin wax for dipping (see FAQ for ratios).
How much wax do I need to dip a beehive?
As a rough guide for wax dipping beehive components, you'll need enough wax to fully submerge the largest component in your dipping vessel. For most beekeepers setting up a dipping tank:
- A single hive body (box) requires a dipping vessel holding approximately 50–80 litres/kg of molten wax.
- Most commercial beekeepers maintain a standing tank of 100kg or more, topping up as wax is absorbed (a full depth box will absorb approximately 30–50g of wax).
Frequently asked questions
What temperature do I need for wax dipping beehives?
The wax needs to be between 130°C and 180°C for effective penetration and sterilisation. At this temperature, the wax is hot enough to drive moisture out of the timber and replace it. Always use a thermometer and appropriate safety equipment when working with molten wax at these temperatures.
Can microcrystalline wax be used to treat AFB-infected hive equipment?
Yes. Hot wax dipping at the correct temperature is an effective method for treating hive components contaminated with American Foulbrood (AFB). The heat either kills the spores or encapsulates them in wax. However, always check with your state's Department of Agriculture for current biosecurity requirements, as regulations vary.
Should I use 100% microcrystalline or blend it with paraffin?
Both work well. Pure microcrystalline gives the most flexible, durable coating with excellent adhesion and a higher heat tolerance — favoured by commercial beekeepers and for hives in warmer climates. Blending with paraffin (often 50/50) reduces cost while keeping more flexibility than 100% paraffin. We stock bulk paraffin in pellets/beads and blocks if you'd like to blend your own mix.
Can microcrystalline wax be used in candle making and cosmetics?
Yes. In cosmetics, microcrystalline is widely used in lip balms, hand creams, lotions and skincare formulations for its pliability and binding properties. In candle making, it's typically added as a small percentage (5–15%) of the wax blend to harden the candle, improve gloss, reduce dripping and help fragrance bind — it's not generally used 100% on its own for candles.
What size should I order?
For hobby beekeepers wax dipping their first hives, a 25kg carton is a great starting point. Candle makers and cosmetics formulators blending micro typically need much less (a few kg). Commercial beekeepers and industrial users find the 50kg or 100kg options more economical. Contact us for pallet quotes — 40 cartons / 1,000kg.
Do you ship microcrystalline wax Australia-wide?
Yes, we ship to all states and territories across Australia. Shipping cost is calculated at checkout based on your location and order size.
