Cooling Fluids: Efficiency and System Protection Test Methods

What are the Properties of Coolants?

Cooling Fluids

Water miscible system cleaning oil. Biocides used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in aqueous solutions and emulsions and to kill microorganisms. They are neutral, alkaline cleaners that are also used to remove grease and other residues from steel, cast iron and aluminum. For temporary storage, they also provide corrosion protection.

Properties:

Easy emulsion with water.
Prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi in aqueous solutions and emulsions.
Prevents micro-organisms already formed.
Prevents bacterial contamination during initial use.

Importance of Coolant Analysis

Regular analysis of coolants is important for the following reasons:

Increased Efficiency: Coolants with the right properties increase the energy efficiency of the system.
Corrosion Protection: Analyzes assess the level of anti-corrosion inhibitors, ensuring the protection of metal components.
Reducing the Risk of Failure: As an early warning system, it helps to detect problems within the system in advance.
Cost Savings: Maintenance costs are reduced by optimizing fluid change frequency with appropriate analysis.
Reducing Environmental Impact: Analysis results reduce the amount of waste by determining the reusability of the coolant.

What are the Parameters Analyzed in Coolants?

pH Level: Indicates the acidity or alkalinity of the liquid. The pH level must be balanced to prevent corrosion and chemical degradation. It is tested with pH meters. A low pH indicates an acidic environment and a high pH indicates an overly basic environment; both can adversely affect system components.
Corrosion Inhibitor Level: Inhibitors that protect metal surfaces from corrosion must be at adequate levels. It is measured by titration or spectrophotometric methods. Low inhibitor levels increase the risk of corrosion.
Glycol Concentration: Glycol lowers the freezing point and raises the boiling point, increasing the thermal stability of the liquid. Refractometry or gas chromatography is used. A decrease in glycol can reduce cooling capacity, while excessive glycol can increase the risk of corrosion.
Conductivity: Conductivity indicates the amount of ions dissolved in the liquid and the level of contamination. Electrical conductivity meters are used. High conductivity indicates the presence of salt and metal ions, increasing the risk of corrosion.
Solid Content: Solid particles in the coolant can clog pumps and pipelines. Measured by filtration or gravimetric analysis. As the solid particle level increases, the mechanical components of the system may be damaged.
Foaming Properties: The tendency of the liquid to foam can adversely affect the efficiency of the system and the performance of the pumps. Dynamic foam test is applied. Excessive foaming can be caused by mixing of the liquid with air and can reduce lubrication performance.
Thermal Stability: Evaluates the ability of the coolant to maintain its chemical stability at high temperatures. It is measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) or differential thermal analysis (DTA). Low thermal stability can cause the fluid to lose its properties rapidly.

What are the Benefits of Coolant Analysis?

System Protection: Regular analysis ensures that system components are protected from problems such as corrosion, clogging and thermal stress.
Increased Efficiency: Proper glycol ratio, pH and inhibitor levels increase the energy efficiency of the system.
Long Life Usage: By continuously monitoring the condition of the coolant, the life of the fluid is extended and the frequency of fluid replacement is optimized.
Environmental Sensitivity: End-of-life coolants are analyzed and their recycling potential is evaluated, thus reducing environmental waste.

What are Coolant Test Standards?

Coolant analysis is performed in accordance with various international standards:

ASTM D3306: Standard methods for testing engine coolants.
ASTM D1384: Methods for evaluating the anti-corrosion properties of coolants.
BS 6580: Specifications for automotive coolants.
ISO 22241: Quality control procedures for industrial coolants.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Coolants Analysis. We also provide services in Lubricant Analysis.

You can follow us on LinkedIn for up-to-date news and posts about our services.

Follow our Instagram account to be informed about our latest blog posts.