A glycol chiller is a refrigeration-based system that transfers unwanted heat away from a process via a water and glycol mixture. They are commonly installed in industrial and commercial settings where accurate temperature regulation is essential.
Operating in a similar way to conventional refrigeration systems, glycol chillers absorb heat and release it through a heat exchanger to create a cooling effect. This supports consistent working temperatures and reduces the risk of equipment damage or compromised product quality.
Why Glycol Is Added to the Cooling System
At the core of the system is a water and glycol solution that travels around a closed loop. This fluid absorbs heat from the surrounding process before returning to the chiller unit to be cooled again.
Its primary function is to lower the freezing point of the coolant. This ensures the coolant does not freeze under demanding operating conditions.
As a result, they are commonly used in:
- Food and drink processing
- Pharmaceutical storage
- Manufacturing processes
- Building and commercial cooling installations
This stability supports precise temperature control in demanding applications.
How the Refrigeration Cycle Works
A glycol chiller functions through a continuous refrigeration cycle that transfers heat away from the target process.
Initial phase: Cooling the solution
The refrigerant draws heat from the coolant as it changes state, reducing the mixture’s temperature.
Stage 2: Transferring cooling to the application
A pump circulates the chilled glycol through pipework to a heat exchanger, where it absorbs heat from equipment, tanks, or air systems.
Final phase: Releasing collected heat
Once warmed, the glycol returns to the chiller unit. Heat is discharged outside the system before the refrigerant returns to a liquid state and the cycle begins again.
The continuous cycle ensures stable and reliable cooling.
Main Parts of the System
- Compressor – Circulates refrigerant through the system.
- Evaporator – Absorbs heat from the glycol mixture.
- Condenser – Discharges absorbed heat externally.
- Expansion valve – Controls the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator.
- Heat exchanger – Enables heat transfer between the process and the coolant.
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In certain designs, a buffer vessel enhances system stability during varying load conditions.
Why a Closed-Loop Design Is Important
These systems are designed as sealed circuits. Sensitive processes remain protected from exposure to the coolant.
By travelling through sealed pipework and returning to the unit after heat exchange, the system maintains cleanliness and reliability.
Industrial Uses for Glycol Chillers
Heat build-up is common in commercial and industrial equipment. Without proper cooling, this can lead to reduced efficiency, product defects, or equipment failure.
The antifreeze properties of glycol enable lower operating temperatures compared to water-only systems.
Energy Considerations and Heat Recovery
Modern glycol chillers can integrate with broader cooling infrastructure, including air handling units and fan coil systems.
Some configurations also offer heat recovery options, allowing captured heat to be reused elsewhere in the facility.
Key Points Recap
In essence, a glycol chiller transfers unwanted heat using a continuously cooled glycol solution. The coolant absorbs heat via a heat exchanger and returns to the refrigeration unit, where that heat is discharged externally.
For further details about glycol chiller systems and available cooling solutions, contact Pure Thermal for more information.