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. In many cases, low viscosity fluids tend to display higher heat transfer coefficients, which can help your equipment to heat more efficiently.

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.