Shampoo is a product of the cosmetic industry, but is also produced in “close to nature” form (natural cosmetics). It is usually creamy or liquid and generally perfumed.
A shampoo should ensure high hair-cleansing power, optimal compatibility and a nourishing effect for the hair. In addition, shampoo should produce foam and be insensitive to water hardness. Its pH value is usually slightly acidic to neutral (approx. 5 to 7). The composition of the ingredients can vary considerably from product to product. However, shampoos almost always contain water and surfactants. Co-surfactants, complex and film-formers, preservatives, fragrance oils, buffers and even UV absorbers are used for the cleansing effect.
The production of shampoo proceeds in complex, seamlessly interlinked production steps, which high-performance homogenisation plants can carry out without problem. Modern agitators can combine water and surfactants (ether sulfate) using the hot-cold process at room temperature directly in the shear gap of the homogeniser. This prevents the ether sulfate coming in contact with water whilst in the still undissolved state, as it then has a tendency to clump. The gel clumps are difficult to dissolve in this state.
The plants should also be able to take over the important control of the pH-value of the shampoo. Production under pressure and vacuum-proof conditions is also important, so that the product does not come into contact with air and no undesired foaming develops during production. An integrated Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) system should enable clean production processes and short CIP cleaning times.
With the appropriate pumps and homogenisers, shampoo can be produced in batch operation or continuously, depending on requirements and process.
Planning a plant for shampoo? Call us at +49 4203 789492, email info@s-vt.net or use our contact form.
FAQ: Producing shampoo
What is shampoo made of?
Mainly water and surfactants (e.g. sodium laureth sulfate), plus mild co-surfactants, thickeners, care and conditioning agents, fragrance, preservatives and buffers. The pH is usually approx. 5 to 7.
Why does ether sulfate form lumps during mixing?
Highly concentrated surfactant forms a viscous gel phase on contact with little water. Combining water and surfactant directly in the shear gap of the homogeniser reliably avoids this gel phase.
How is foaming avoided during production?
By working under vacuum, adding below the liquid level and using adapted speeds.
Batch or continuous?
Both are possible. For large volumes, continuous plants with dosing pumps and inline homogenisers are often more economical; for many recipes the batch mixer remains more flexible.
Does SEEFRIED supply plants for shampoo?
Yes, we plan shampoo plants in batch or inline operation and offer inspected used homogenising mixers.