A glycol chiller is a cooling system designed to remove heat from a process or product using a mixture of water and glycol as the cooling fluid. 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 beverage manufacturing
- Medical and pharmaceutical storage
- Manufacturing processes
- Building and commercial cooling installations
This stability supports precise temperature control in demanding applications.
How the Refrigeration Cycle Works
The system operates via a repeating refrigeration cycle that moves heat away from the equipment being cooled.
Step 1: Cooling the glycol mixture
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
After absorbing heat, the solution flows back to the system. The refrigerant then carries this heat to a condenser, where it is released into the surrounding air or water.
The process repeats to achieve and hold the set temperature.
Key Components of a Glycol Chiller
- Compressor – Moves refrigerant to sustain the cooling cycle.
- Evaporator – Transfers heat from the solution to the refrigerant.
- Condenser – Expels heat into air or water.
- Expansion valve – Regulates refrigerant flow and pressure.
- Heat exchanger – Transfers heat without mixing fluids.
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A buffer tank may be fitted to help maintain consistent temperatures and prevent sudden changes.
Benefits of a Closed-Loop Glycol System
Glycol chillers operate using a closed-loop configuration. This separation reduces contamination risks.
This design is particularly valuable where hygiene or material protection is essential.
Temperature Control in Industrial Applications
Many manufacturing processes produce excess thermal energy. Effective cooling is therefore essential to protect both equipment and results.
Because glycol lowers the freezing point of the coolant, these chillers can operate at lower temperatures than standard water-based systems.
Integration with Wider Cooling Systems
These systems often connect with air handling units, fan coils, or other process equipment.
This approach may contribute to improved overall energy efficiency.
Final Overview
A glycol chiller removes heat by circulating a cooled water and glycol mixture through a sealed loop. Heat is collected from the process and expelled outside before the cycle repeats.
For additional guidance on selecting a glycol chiller, speak with Pure Thermal about appropriate cooling systems.