ABOUT GLYCOL IN CHILLERS
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A chiller will run without glycol as long as the fluid temperature in the system is above freezing. Glycol or other inhibitors are recommended for most process cooling applications even if the fluid temperature doesn&#;t reach temperatures near freezing.
What type of glycol is best?
American Chillers recommends Inhibited Propylene Glycol which works as an anti-freeze, but also includes rust inhibitors and other additives that keeps your pump seals lubricated and fluids and chilled water system running in optimal condition. Other glycols may be acceptable. NEVER USE AUTOMOTIVE OR RV ANIT-FREEZE IN CHILLERS. NEVER USE GLYCOL IN COOLING TOWERS. Glycol will reduce chiller capacity. Questions about what glycol concentration and/or type to purchase? Contact and American Chillers sales engineer for assistance.
Glycol Correction Factors
All Heat exchangers experience a capacity loss when the fluid is a higher specific gravity than water. Glycols are heavy, syrup like fluids at full concentration, and become thinner when mixed with water. However, the mixed solution of water-glycol will be thicker, heavier, than the water alone was. Thus, to achieve the same heat exchange inside the heat exchanger , requires more surface area or a larger heat exchanger. American Chillers heat exchangers are engineered for full rated capacity with the use of 30% glycol solutions. Our heat exchangers start out with 30% more surface area capacity than the heat exchangers used by other manufacturers so you still have full capacity with 30% water-glycol solutions. If you are using glycol concentrations above 30%, consult factory prior to purchasing your chiller for chiller selection assistance.
* At standard ARI 590 conditions: 54°F entering fluid temperature, 44°F leaving fluid temperature, 95°F ambient temperature, 0. fouling
American Chillers & Cooling Tower Systems recommends propylene based glycols because of their non-hazardous nature and as such, we must be aware of the effects on the standard refrigeration heat exchangers and pumps. A 40% solution of propylene glycol will reduce the chiller heat exchanger&#;s ability to chill by at least 7.2%. We know from experience, that some heat exchangers chilling abilities is reduced by 20%. This means the chiller with a 10 ton capacity for chilling water will have a capacity between 8 tons and 9.3 tons with 40% PG. Most American Chillers have heat exchangers large enough to handle 30% PG without loss of capacity due to our &#;value-added&#; engineering practices. We can easily provide a chiller heat exchanger for even 50% PG at the customer request at time of order.
Why is propylene glycol so popular for industrial chillers? It is highly effective for freeze protection, making it a reliable solution for maintaining chiller systems in optimal condition. Let&#;s explore its benefits and best practices for use.
Propylene glycol fluid is an ideal solution for maintaining the right operating temperatures and preventing freezing in industrial cooling systems, like water chillers. Unlike water, propylene glycol has a lower freezing point, which makes it perfect for chillers that need to operate in colder environments.
In a chiller system, propylene glycol serves one main purpose: freeze protection. It circulates through the chiller, absorbing heat from the system&#;s components and releasing it into the atmosphere.
Simultaneously, the fluid&#;s antifreeze properties ensure the system doesn&#;t freeze in low temperatures. This is critical for maintaining continuous, reliable operation, particularly in environments where ambient temperatures drop significantly.
Let&#;s take a look at some of the key benefits propylene glycol offers for your chiller system.
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Of course the biggest advantage of using propylene glycol is its ability to prevent freezing in colder climates or in systems that operate at low temperatures. By lowering the freezing point of the coolant, it ensures that the fluid keeps moving through the system without the risk of ice formation, which can cause severe damage to the chiller.
Many chiller components, such as heat exchangers and piping, are made from metals prone to corrosion. Propylene glycol chiller fluid is typically blended with corrosion inhibitors that protect these parts, extending the life of your equipment.
Unlike ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic, propylene glycol is safe for use in food and beverage processing environments. It&#;s non-toxic, making it the preferred choice in industries where contamination could pose a health risk.
Propylene glycol fluid is a great option for chillers, but here are a few tips to get the best performance:
When using glycol in chiller systems, it&#;s important to account for capacity loss due to the fluid&#;s higher viscosity compared to water. To maintain efficiency, Cold Shot Chillers designs heat exchangers with 30% more surface area, ensuring full capacity when using a 30% water-glycol mix. If your glycol concentration exceeds 30%, contact us for guidance on the best chiller selection for your needs.
If your current chiller system is prone to freezing issues or operates in a sensitive environment, it might be time to switch to propylene glycol chiller fluid. Whether you&#;re dealing with extreme weather conditions or you need a safer alternative to toxic coolants, propylene glycol can provide the protection and efficiency you need to keep your system running reliably.
If you&#;re looking to maximize your chiller&#;s performance, consider upgrading to Cold Shot Chillers&#; propylene glycol chiller fluid.
Cold Shot Chillers offers INTERCOOL® P-300 Glycol, a high-performance, industrially inhibited propylene glycol fluid. Designed for demanding applications, this glycol delivers superior thermal stability, with an operating range from -60°F to 350°F. It&#;s formulated with advanced corrosion inhibitors and pH buffers, making it a reliable option for heavy-duty operations.
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