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Technical Data
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Technical Data
Paratherm NF® vs. Synthetic Heat Transfer Fluids |
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Synthetic aromatic heat transfer fluids continue to occupy an important place in liquid heat transfer systems. Synthetics are best
specified where natural fluids cannot function: at system temperatures above 600°F, at very low temperatures and, if they are
able, in the vapor phase.
Here are some of the reasons you might consider a heat transfer fluid manufactured from
natural feedstocks, like the Paratherm NF® non-fouling, non-toxic fluid.
Lower Cost
The purchase cost of many synthetic fluids ranges from slightly to substantially higher than the cost of the
NF fluid. Handling and disposal add significantly to this cost.
Improve Efficiency
At medium temperatures synthetic fluids typically provide equal-to-higher film coefficients than the
NF fluid. However as temperatures begin to climb these differences become considerably
smaller - until at the high end of the range, Paratherm's coefficients exceed those of most synthetics. (Higher film
coefficients mean greater availability of BTU's at the user surface.) The NF fluid is more efficient.
Longer Fluid Life
When properly specified and operated in well-designed systems, all heat transfer fluids will provide good service for reasonable periods
of time. However, degradation caused by oxidation, overheating and contamination will cut this service dramatically.
Due to its non-fouling characteristic, the NF fluid is considerably more forgiving. It's service life is proven equal to or greater than
the synthetics.
Human Safety
Most synthetic fluids are moderately or significantly toxic. In comparison, the
NF fluid is completely non-toxic (it is certified food-grade).
Safety Data Sheets for aromatic fluids indicate that small quantities of benzene gas may form and concentrate in the expansion tank when
the fluid is severely overheated.
Severe overheating is most often the direct result of low flows at the heated surface. Occurring at the fluid's film layer, overheating
can happen even at low or moderate fluid temperatures. You'll notice little, if any, change in the fluid's bulk temperature.
If you are using aromatic fluids, you should make sure the system's expansion tank is vented to an area where the fumes cannot
concentrate.
You should carefully review the fluid's Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for toxicity information regarding respiratory, ingestion and
skin-contact. Skin dermatitis and respiratory problems have been reported with virtually all synthetics. The
NF fluid has no odor and has been reported to actually soften the skin.
Environmental Safety/Disposal
While no fluid should ever be permitted to enter the environment, mishaps can and do occur. Hazardous or regulated waste procedures
must be followed in the clean-up and disposal of most synthetic fluids.
However, the same simple clean-up procedures for light lube oils can be employed with releases of
the NF fluid. And, used or contaminated NF fluid can be safely
combined with spent lube oils and sent to the local oil recycler (EPA, citation 57FR21524). This helps conserve natural resources and
precious landfill space. The NF fluid has also passed rigorous Bioassay with three species (Rainbow trout, saltwater shrimp and
freshwater shrimp).
Fluid Fouling
Fouling has been observed with all synthetic fluids. This fouling normally occurs as fluid flow drops at the heated surfaces. Less
heat is removed, the heat balance is upset and film temperatures quickly soar. This high heat flux overcomes the strength of the
fluid's chemical bonds. As they break, fine, amorphous "sooty" carbon is formed. Much of this carbon immediately adheres to the
heated surfaces and bakes on, creating insulating layers.
Under similar severe overheat conditions, the NF fluid evolves carbon granules that do not adhere. Instead, they remain in suspension and
are easily filtered out. This is particularly important in electrically heated systems where hard baked-on carbon deposits most
often occur.
No Odor
Even when operated within their normal temperature range synthetic heat transfer fluids can produce a mild to heavy odor. In contrast,
the NF fluid has none.
Applications
The NF fluid has for years been successfully used in a broad variety of demanding applications in the processing of chemicals, food,
pharmaceuticals, oils, adhesives and petroleum. It provides precise, uniform temperature control in process applications including die
casting, injection molding, curing, laminating, calendering, drying , and printing - just to name a few.
The NF fluid is approved, recommended and/or specified by a wide range of original equipment manufacturers whose equipment is used in
these processes.
Questions? We'd like to hear from you. Call toll-free, 800-222-3611 -- or fax or e-mail.
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| Note:
The information and recommendations in this literature are made in good faith and are believed to be correct as of the below date. You, the user or specifier, should independently determine the suitability and fitness of Paratherm heat transfer fluids for use in your specific application. We warrant that the fluids conform to the specifications in Paratherm literature. Because our assistance is furnished without charge, and because we have no control over the fluid's end use or the conditions under which it will be used, we make no other warranties-expressed or implied, including the warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular use or purpose (recommendations in this bulletin are not intended nor should be construed as approval to infringe on any existing patent). The user's exclusive remedy, and Paratherm's sole liability is limited to refund of the purchase price or replacement of any product proven to be otherwise than as warranted. Paratherm Corporation will not be liable for incidental or consequential damages of any kind.
Some product names of companies found in Paratherm literature are registered trademarks. This statement is in lieu of individually noting
each.
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