Glycol for chilling

[stephelton]

The melting point of ethylene glycol is -12.9° C, while the melting point of propylene glycol is -59 °C. I was under the impression that pure ethylene glycol is favorable for use in cooling solutions, but it freezes "sooner," and seems to be very difficult to find. Which is favorable, and why? Where might I search (preferably locally) for either?

Thanks!

 

[uncia]

Here is a fantastic article: http://www.prochiller.com/files/AllAboutGlycol.pdf

In short, use propylene glycol. You can buy the RV PG but it may degrade faster.

 

[gruversm]

I use Dow Frost (DuPont) RV glycol in my system.

 

[ClaudiusB]

I use between 20%-30% RV propylene glycol for my water chiller.

One thing to remember is the potential of slush creation.
The glycol and water mixture should not be used close to the freezing point, pump and valves will have a hard time.


Cheers,
ClaudiusB

 

[stephelton]

Thanks for the input. That PDF has some very good info in it.