Lubricating waxes are not solid lubricants in the proper sense. They form a dry-to-the-touch layer on the surface of the prepared part to ensure reliable lubrication while reducing boundary and mixed lubrication friction. They consist of high-molecular synthetic hydrocarbons, additives and oil (mineral oil, synthetic hydrocarbon).

Wax emulsions differ from lubricating waxes in that they are water-based and contain emulsifiers. The water evaporates leaving a film that adheres reliably to the surface.

Worth knowing: at a specific temperature waxes become fluid. The melting point depends on the constituents and the composition of the wax.