Water / Glycol Evaporator Coil

Water/Glycol Evaporator Coil

A water/glycol evaporator coil is a heat exchanger commonly used in a variety of cooling applications, where a mixture of water and glycol (usually ethylene glycol) is circulated to transfer heat between the coil and the surrounding air. These coils are commonly used in HVAC systems, refrigeration systems, and industrial processes that require low temperature cooling. The water/glycol mixture acts as a heat transfer fluid and the coil facilitates heat exchange with the surrounding environment.

Here are some key points about water/glycol evaporator coils:

1. Freeze protection: One of the main reasons for using water/glycol blends is to prevent freezing in cold environments. Glycol lowers the freezing point of water, making it suitable for applications in cold temperatures.

2. Corrosion Protection: Glycol also provides a degree of corrosion protection for system components. This is especially important when coils and other components are in contact with water, which can lead to corrosion over time.

3. Heat transfer efficiency: Water/glycol mixtures have a lower heat capacity than water alone, so they may not provide the same heat transfer efficiency as pure water. However, glycol mixtures are effective in environments where freeze protection is critical.

4. Applications in HVAC: Water/glycol evaporator coils are typically used in HVAC systems that require cooling at temperatures near or below freezing. These coils are used for space cooling in air handling units and chillers.

5. Industrial processes: Water/glycol evaporator coils are also used in industrial processes that require low temperature cooling, such as food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals and chemical processing.