Is heat transfer fluid the same as glycol?

Heat transfer fluid (HTF) is a liquid deployed to move thermal energy in cooling, heating and power generation systems.

It’s available from multiple brands including Paratherm, which is a CPI Fluid Engineering line of cutting-edge products.

Used in closed-loop systems, the fluid acts as an intermediary, transporting thermal energy that acts as a coolant or heating medium in applications like industrial processes and engines.

Many people use the terms heat transfer fluid and glycol interchangeably, but they are not exclusively the same.

The key difference between heat transfer fluids and glycol

While glycol is common kind of HTF, the term heat transfer fluid refers to a wider category that includes a variety of different solutions like mineral and synthetic base oils, and the most basic and affordable option: water.

Glycol, on the other hand, is a popular chemical additive that is utilised in heat transfer systems to provide protection from freezing, as well as inhibiting corrosion and preventing unwanted biological growth. In active use, glycol is often first combined with water.

Understanding the different types of glycols

There are two main glycol types: ethylene glycol and propylene glycol.

Ethylene is typically used in engines and in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) applications.

Propylene glycol is employed in industries where food safe solutions are essential to meet regulations. For instance, glycol-based HTFs are widely deployed in cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical manufacturing because they carry FDA approval for being environmentally safe and non-toxic.

Pros and cons of glycol functionality

Heat transfer system operators that require a heat transfer fluid with good thermal stability, which can help equipment resist corrosion and will prevent freezing often select glycol-based solutions for its coveted characteristics. However, glycols are not always the best option for every application. In systems that often experience high temperatures of 82°C, specialist fluids with a synthetic or specially formulated oil base are a better option as they are considered safer and more stable than a water-glycol mixture.

Do you need dependable heat transfer fluid to suit a specific application?

We stock state-of-the-art heat transfer fluids to match different operating temperature ranges. Browse our listed products from top brands or connect with our well-informed team for further details on a specific fluid.

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