What are Heat transfer Fluids?
Heat transfer fluids are used in countless applications and many industrial processes where heating or cooling is required in closed systems. Heat transfer fluids are used when it is required to obtain and maintain a particular temperature during a process. A wide range of options exists when selecting the appropriate heat transfer fluid for a system. It is important to understand the properties of each. Choosing an inadequate heat transfer fluid could be a costly mistake.
Types of Heat Transfer Fluids:
Water:
Water is an inexpensive option as a transfer fluid and easily transfers through a system.
Water, however, provides little to no freeze or boil protection and is highly corrosive.
Without corrosion protection, water alone will cause severe and costly damage to closed systems.
Glycols:
Ethylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol are common glycols used as heat transfer fluids. Often, glycols are diluted with water to provide additional freeze protection. Glycols may provide freeze and boil protection at a low cost, but glycols, diluted or not, will leave your system vulnerable to corrosion. As glycols degrade, organic acids are produced.
These acids, without any inhibitor, will accelerate the corrosion of a system more quickly than water alone.
Inhibited Glycols:
All glycol-based fluids are not created equally. Inhibited glycols, like the JEFFCOOL® brand, are ethylene or propylene-based glycols with an inhibitor package designed to prevent corrosion. The inhibitors work together to neutralize acids formed in a system that protects the system against corrosion. An inhibited glycol heat-transfer fluid will prevent equipment damage from leading to repair or replacement of the system. Your initial investment in a quality heat transfer fluid will not compare to the cost of repairs due to corrosion.
Your system’s overall performance, longevity, and long-term cost can be greatly affected by the type of heat transfer fluid you select.
For product selection and technical assistance, contact ChemicalSales@ThirdCoast.com
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