Cooling fluid replacements
Why cooling fluid needs replacement
Over time, cooling fluids degrade due to various factors, such as chemical contamination, incompatibility with system materials, or an unsatisfactory performance. For instance, a system using brine in cast iron equipment may face corrosion issues, or a system operating near food production may require a switch from monoethylene glycol to a more suitable alternative.
In other cases, cooling fluids become contaminated with corrosion products, increasing the risk of system failure. Simply draining and refilling the liquid isn’t enough to solve the underlying issues, which may be related to design flaws, maintenance lapses, or operational errors.
Pre-replacement preparations: what to check
Before removing the old fluid, it’s essential to perform a thorough analysis. This includes checking the current liquid’s condition and inspecting the equipment. Contact us and have a sample of your current liquid analyzed. Does it contain excessive corrosion, aggressive ions, or contaminants? Along with this, document details like the liquid’s time in use, any previous maintenance records, and whether chemicals like cleaning agents were used.
Don’t forget to inspect the system itself. Often, the root cause of cooling fluid issues lies in the equipment, such as leaking air or refrigerants, which must be addressed before adding new fluid.
Replacing the cooling fluid
When the system is ready, draining the current liquid is the next step. Ensure the system is drained from the lowest point and that no liquid remains trapped in pockets or closed valves. Minimize the exposure of metallic components to air by refilling the system as quickly as possible after draining.
It’s highly recommended to clean or replace all filters during the replacement process. Installing filters in a bypass of the pump will allow for more frequent removal of suspended particles, which can improve system performance over time.
In some cases, chemical cleaning may be necessary, especially in systems with severe corrosion or fouling. However, care must be taken to use the correct treatment, as some chemicals may harm certain materials in the system.
Post-replacement: monitoring and maintenance
After replacing the cooling fluid, regular checks during the first few weeks are critical. Changes in the refrigeration capacity or unexpected leaks are common, especially if different base fluids are used, which can affect the swelling or shrinking of seals. Address leaks promptly to avoid long-term damage.
This is also the perfect time to implement a monitoring program. Regularly analyzing the cooling fluid helps identify problems early. Key parameters to track include the freezing point, pH, and the concentration of corrosion inhibitors and products. By catching issues early, you can avoid more significant problems down the road.
A structured roadmap to success
Replacing cooling fluid requires careful planning and execution. By following these guidelines (checking the system, performing a thorough drain and refill, and monitoring post-replacement conditions) you can ensure your system remains efficient and reliable.
For any questions about the right cooling fluids for your application or how to handle replacements, Arteco’s technical team is always available to assist.
Nice to know: When it comes to cooling fluid replacements, Zitrec® products are designed to not only optimize system performance but also simplify ongoing maintenance. Their Organic Additive Technology (OAT) inhibitor packages provide excellent corrosion protection, which means less buildup and fewer issues over time. By using Zitrec® coolants during fluid replacements, you ensure your system remains free from corrosion and scale, reducing the need for frequent interventions. This makes Zitrec® an ideal choice for both immediate cooling fluid replacement and long-term system care, ensuring smoother maintenance cycles and extended equipment life.