What Is Glycol Air Cooler And Why Glycol Is Used For Cooling?

What Is Glycol Air Cooler And Why Glycol Is Used For Cooling?

A glycol air cooler, also known as a glycol-cooled air handler or glycol coil, is a type of heat exchanger used for cooling air in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. It consists of a coil or set of coils through which a glycol/water mixture flows, transferring heat from the air to the glycol solution.

Glycol, specifically ethylene or propylene glycol, is used for cooling purposes for several reasons:

Freeze Protection: Glycol has a lower freezing point than water, providing freeze protection in cold climates or when the system is shut down. By adding glycol to the water, the cooling system can operate at lower temperatures without the risk of freezing.

Heat Transfer Efficiency: Glycol enhances the heat transfer capabilities of the cooling system. It has better thermal conductivity than water alone, allowing for efficient heat exchange between the air and the glycol solution in the air cooler. This results in improved cooling performance.

Corrosion Prevention: Glycol acts as a corrosion inhibitor, protecting the internal components of the cooling system from corrosion and degradation. This is particularly important when the cooling system comes into contact with metals, such as the coil surfaces in the air handler.

Anti-Bacterial Properties: Glycol has antibacterial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria and microorganisms in the cooling system. This reduces the risk of fouling, mold growth, and associated health hazards.

System Flexibility: Glycol-based cooling systems offer flexibility in terms of system design and layout. The use of glycol allows for longer pipe runs and enables the system to reach remote or distant areas, making it suitable for complex HVAC installations.

It's important to note that the glycol/water mixture used in air coolers is typically in a specific concentration depending on the desired freeze protection and heat transfer properties. The glycol solution is circulated through the coil, absorbing heat from the air as it passes over the coil, thereby cooling the air that is supplied to the conditioned space.

Glycol air coolers find applications in various industries, including commercial buildings, data centers, food processing facilities, and other cooling applications where freeze protection, corrosion prevention, and efficient heat transfer are important considerations.