|
Cee Moorehead in Colorado graciously let me copy her explanation of INS Values to share with you. I don't use INS values in CP soapmaking but it's an interesting theory and many soapers do use it.
Q: I've been looking for an explanation of exactly what the "INS Value" is ... Could someone please tell me exactly what the INS value is or what INS stands for?
A: INS = (I)odine 'N (S)AP value, LOL, or so I've read. There is very little info written about it and the basis for the formula remains a mystery. The soapmaker who introduced INS values for making "perfect" soap is Dr. Robert S. McDaniel in his book, "Essentially Soap".
Q: it relates to the hardness of soap and a good range is somewhere 140-160.
A: From experience, using INS values:
INS 160 = "perfect soap". This requires a fair amount of solid oils/fats/butters in the formula.
A higher INS = too hard and may result in crumbly soap.
A lower INS = too soft, which is not a problem, but requires a longer cure time.
INS 135-145 = A good range for soaps made from all liquid oils, but take longer to cure.
INS 109 = The INS value for 100% Olive Oil castile which takes 12 weeks to cure.
Q: Also, I've put some numbers into soapcalc and although the hardness values come out at around 40-42, the INS is still in the low 130's. Should I conclude that the soap would turn out to be a hard bar based on the hardness value even if the INS is below the 140's?
A: Yes, the range for hardness is 36-50, so 40-42 is good. Just keep in mind that it may take longer to cure with an INS in the low 130's. Check the iodine value as well as the INS. The lower the iodine, the harder the soap. 55 or lower is good.
All this is fairly "loose" information. While using the INS value is a good starting point, there is so much more to making a great soap and much is learned over time, through experience, and by studying the properties of soapmaking oils/butters/fats, and other ingredients, and what each contributes to any given formula.
_________________ Happy Soaping!
Anne-Marie
blog: www.soap-queen.blogspot.com
supplies: www.brambleberry.com
|
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
