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INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE
How THermal fluId CHoICe ImpaCTs performanCe and maInTenanCe
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In any process that requires indirect heat transfer, it is essential to select the appropriate thermal fluid for the application - whether it is for heating processes in power generation or cooling products in food processing. But with so many heat transfer fluids on the market, reviewing options can be a time-consuming task. Here Clive Jones, managing director of thermal fluid expert Global Heat Transfer, explains the properties of mineral and synthetic heat transfer fluids, when to use each and how to maintain the fluid accordingly.
8 wInTer 2023 | IndusTrIal ComplIanCe
aking the time to select the best thermal fluid for an application will improve a variety of factors, such as heat transfer efficiency, system performance and maintenance costs. So where should manufacturers start?
The righT TemperaTure
Matching the fluid to the application’s temperature is important because it will determine safety and efficiency - fluid choice can also impact heat transfer reaction speed, improving productivity. Thermal fluids must reach and maintain specific temperatures for prolonged periods, so choosing a fluid that offers thermal stability at the outlined temperature is crucial to maintaining uptime. Manufacturers should look at both the
highest and lowest operating temperatures outlined on the technical data sheet. Considering the heat transfer reaction speed could also impact productivity - comparing fluids and selecting a product with faster heat flow can reduce start-up time.
ChemiCal ComposiTion
A thermal fluid’s chemical composition will often dictate its operating temperature range. Thermal fluids fall into two categories - mineral and synthetic. Mineral-based thermal fluids contain complex hydrocarbon molecules and additives that enhance thermal stability and other properties that impact performance. Synthetic thermal fluids, on the other
hand, are specially formulated using carefully selected chemical compounds, such as glycol-based and silicone-based fluids. These fluids are chemically engineered to provide enhanced performance and stability at both high and low temperatures.
making The ChoiCe
When deciding between mineral or synthetic fluids, thermal fluid experts such as Global Heat Transfer, can advise on the best fluid based on reviewing several factors, including temperature range and chemical compatibility with the system. Mineral thermal fluids are popular because of their cost-effectiveness, reliability and availability,
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