Choosing the right heat transfer fluid for your thermal fluid heating system can be a very challenging task.
There are many options to consider, and various factors to weigh as you make your choice.
Feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of choosing thermal heating fluid for your facility?
We’ve put together a guide to the important factors to keep in mind as you’re researching your options.
Selecting The Right Heat Transfer Fluid: What To Consider
There are dozens of factors you will ultimately have to consider as you search for the right thermal heating fluid. These 9 factors will likely play a large role guiding you to the best heat transfer fluid for your specific situation.
1. Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements of your equipment will likely narrow down your heating fluid options significantly, as you’ll only be able to consider fluids that meet these requirements.
EXPERT TIP: Purchase heat transfer fluid based on your heater’s film temperature, NOT based on its operating temperature. This can help you avoid having heat transfer fluid burn up inside of your heater. Learn more about purchasing thermal heating fluid based on film temperature here.
2. Pressure Requirements
Equipment pressure requirements are another important factor to pay attention to. The fluid you pick must meet these standards in order to be compatible and functional. As a result, pressure requirements are one of the first factors you should consider and weigh as you are selecting new heat transfer fluid.
3. Pumpability
Consider the environment in which the thermal heating fluid will be used. The fluid will need to be pumpable and fully functional at the temperature of that location or environment. Any fluids that may freeze or become too viscous to flow properly should be eliminated as options.
4. Industry
The industry you are working in may also impact the types of heat transfer fluid you select and the options you have to choose from. The processes you’re utilizing, the systems you have in place, and the end products you are producing can all influence which heat transfer fluid is the right one for your facility.
5. Application
How you’re using the heat transfer fluid and what you’re using it for specifically can impact the type of fluid you select as well. Different applications have different requirements, and very specific applications may call for very specialized fluid.
6. Price
Cost is typically a key factor in choosing thermal heating fluid. The price of fluid is highly dependent on the characteristics of the fluid. Be aware that the more specialized the application and the more specialized the type of fluid, the more expensive the heat transfer fluid will be.
7. Efficiency
Efficiency is an important factor to consider when choosing an industrial thermal fluid heater, but it’s also important to keep in mind when you’re shopping for heat transfer fluid. In many cases, low viscosity fluids tend to display higher heat transfer coefficients, which can help your equipment to heat more efficiently. If efficiency is something your organization values, this factor should be high on your list of priorities.
8. Local Regulations
Regulations and requirements in your area may designate what types of heat transfer fluid you can use as well. Be sure you’re well informed about any restrictions or requirements that may apply at the job site or facility where you’re planning to use the thermal heating fluid as you’re making your selection.
9. Environmental Friendliness
If your plant or facility is environmentally conscious, the environmental impact of the fluid you choose may be another important factor to weigh as you’re selecting heat transfer fluid. Additionally, some plants and facilities are impacted by environmental restrictions that require non-toxic or biodegradable fluids, which may narrow down your options significantly.
Select the Thermal Heating Fluid That’s Best For Your Facility
It may take a lot of research and careful consideration, but choosing the best heat transfer fluid for your facility can make a huge positive impact in the long run. Carefully weighing the factors listed above to find the fluid that strikes the right balance will be well worth it in the end.
When you’re shopping for heat transfer fluid, don’t feel like you have to go it alone. At American Heating Company, we’re here to answer your questions and help you understand and narrow down your options so you can invest in the thermal heating fluid that’s best for your facility.
Have questions you need answered about heat transfer fluid? Wondering about your current heater’s fluid requirements? We can help!
Give us a call today at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online and we would be happy to assist you.
Have other questions about thermal fluid heating? Check out our FAQs page to see if we answer your question there!
Interested in learning more about why you should trust us when it comes to all things thermal fluid heater related? Read more about why so many plant and facility managers have chosen to work with us!