Biofuel
Heat Transfer Fluid for Biofuel Applications
Nearly every step of biofuel production requires efficient heating at temperatures that can be maintained for long periods of time. Plant managers should consider how selecting the right heat transfer fluid and efficient maintenance can help to improve productivity in these applications.
Globaltherm® Syntec: Synthetic heat transfer fluid (-3°C – 345°C)
Globaltherm® Syntec is the most popular synthetic heat transfer fluid for high-temperature operations. Engineered for exceptional performance, it operates efficiently at temperatures up to 345°C (653°F) and can be pumped down to -3°C (27°F).
This versatile thermal fluid is ideal for industries such as chemical processing, plastics manufacturing and biodiesel production, ensuring reliable performance in a wide range of indirect heating systems.
About Globaltherm® Syntec
Globaltherm® Syntec is built using advanced hydrogenated terphenyls chemistry, delivering superior results as a heat transfer fluid.
Designed for optimal thermal stability, this synthetic solution ensures operational efficiency even under demanding conditions. Its high-performance capabilities have made it a trusted choice for industrial fluid systems worldwide.
Whether it's maintaining service life in extreme conditions or maximising system efficiency, Globaltherm® Syntec outperforms traditional alternatives. This product is specifically formulated to help your heat transfer process run at full capacity while minimising maintenance and downtime.
Why choose Globaltherm® Syntec?
- Thermal stability: Engineered for excellent temperature tolerance and minimal degradation
- Operational efficiency: Helps maintain consistent perfor-mance across indirect heating systems
- Versatility: Suitable for a broad range of industries and applications
- Extended service life: Designed to reduce replacement frequency, saving costs over time
- Global reliability: Trusted in systems worldwide for con-sistent, high-level performance
With a proven track record in industrial thermal fluid systems, Globaltherm® Syntec offers unmatched reliability and efficiency. From enhancing the longevity of your heating system to supporting critical operations in high-temperature environments, this synthetic heat transfer fluid is designed to meet the unique demands of modern industries.
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| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM/ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | N/A | N/A | Clear to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic odour |
| Operating Range | °C (°F) | N/A | -3° to 345 (27 to 653) |
| Density @25°C | kg/m³ | ASTM D4052 | 1005 |
| Kin. Viscosity @40°C | mm²/s (cSt) | ASTM D445 | 29.6 |
| Kin. Viscosity @100°C | mm²/s (cSt) | ASTM D445 | 3.80 |
| Flashpoint PMC | °C (°F) | ASTM D93 | 170 (338) |
| Flashpoint COC | °C (°F) | ASTM D92 | 184 (363) |
| Coeefficient of thermal expansion | °C | NTR | 0.000819/°C |
| Autoignition point | °C (°F) | ASTM E659 | 374 (705) |
| Pour point | °C (°F) | ISO3016 | -32 (-25.6) |
| Neutralisation Nr (acid), TAN | Mg KOH/g | ASTM D664 | <0.2 |
| Maximum Bulk Temperature | °C (°F) | NTR | 345 (653) |
| Maximum film temperature | °C (°F) | NTR | 375 (707) |
| Boiling point at mbar | °C (°F) | NTR | 359 (678) |
| Average molecular weight | NTR | NTR | 252 (485.6) |
| Moisture content | PPM | ASTM E-203 | 150 ppm |
| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM/ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | N/A | N/A | Clear to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic odour |
| Operating Range | °C (°F) | N/A | -3° to 345 (27 to 653) |
| Density @25°C | kg/m³ | ASTM D4052 | 1005 |
| Kin. Viscosity @40°C | mm²/s (cSt) | ASTM D445 | 29.6 |
| Kin. Viscosity @100°C | mm²/s (cSt) | ASTM D445 | 3.80 |
| Flashpoint PMC | °C (°F) | ASTM D93 | 170 (338) |
| Flashpoint COC | °C (°F) | ASTM D92 | 184 (363) |
| Coeefficient of thermal expansion | °C | NTR | 0.000819/°C |
| Autoignition point | °C (°F) | ASTM E659 | 374 (705) |
| Pour point | °C (°F) | ISO3016 | -32 (-25.6) |
| Neutralisation Nr (acid), TAN | Mg KOH/g | ASTM D664 | <0.2 |
| Maximum Bulk Temperature | °C (°F) | NTR | 345 (653) |
| Maximum film temperature | °C (°F) | NTR | 375 (707) |
| Boiling point at mbar | °C (°F) | NTR | 359 (678) |
| Average molecular weight | NTR | NTR | 252 (485.6) |
| Moisture content | PPM | ASTM E-203 | 150 ppm |
Technical notes
Note: The data provided represents typical performance characteristics and does not constitute a binding specification. These values are subject to allowable production tolerances and may vary across batches. For detailed technical guidance, contact our expert team. Abbreviations: OC, open cup test; COC, Cleveland open cup test; and, NTR, no test reported.
Contact us for more information on high temperature synthetic heat transfer oils.
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| Product | 200kg barrel | Bulk | 1000kg IBC | 25kg drum |
| Globaltherm® Syntec (-3°C – 345°C) |
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Streamline maintenance with Thermocare®
To complement the performance of the Globaltherm® range, the Thermocare® thermal fluid lifecycle maintenance program ensures your system operates efficiently and safely. With tailored packages like essential, optimum and ultimate, Thermocare® offers services ranging from live remote condition monitoring to comprehensive fluid maintenance for a fixed price.
This proactive approach reduces operational costs, enhances system safety and improves productivity through expert heat transfer fluid management.
Contact us for more information
Need advice on selecting the correct synthetic fluid for your heat transfer applications? For expert guidance on thermal fluid solutions and technical support, call us at +44 (0)1785 760555 or get a quote below.
Application
Globaltherm® S is a high performance heat transfer fluid for use in closed loop, non-pressurised heat transfer systems. Primary uses are chemical industries and plastic processing applications.
About Globaltherm® S
Globaltherm® S is recommended for use in an upper temperature range from 250°C (482°F) to 350°C (662°F), but can be used intermittently at film temperatures as high as 380°C (716° F).
- Globaltherm® S heat transfer fluid is non-corrosive and can be used in non-pressurised heat transfer systems
- This heat transfer fluid can be used in systems requiring start-up temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F) without the need for heat tracing
- Globaltherm® S thermal fluid is thermally stable up to 300°C (572°F) and can be used for several years below this temperature with no adverse impact on performance
- Low viscosity 17cSt @ 40°C (104°F) with a pumping limit at -5°C (23°F)
- This thermal fluid has a high ASTM D93 flash point at 200°C – the highest in class
- Globaltherm® S has high thermal stress resistance in the bulk temperature range from 60°C-350°C (140°F - 662°F)
- Globaltherm® S has a highly aromatic structure with a boiling point range of 385°C -395°C (725°F -743°F) - the highest in class
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| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | N/A | N/A | Liquid, clear |
| Chlorine | ppm | DIN 51408 | <10 |
| Acid number | mg KOH/g | DIN EN ISO 2114 | ≤0.02 |
| Density @ 20°C | DIN 51757 | 1.04 - 1.05 | |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | cSt | DIN 51562 | 42 - 52 |
| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | N/A | N/A | Liquid, clear |
| Chlorine | ppm | DIN 51408 | <10 |
| Acid number | mg KOH/g | DIN EN ISO 2114 | ≤0.02 |
| Density @ 20°C | DIN 51757 | 1.04 - 1.05 | |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | cSt | DIN 51562 | 42 - 52 |
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| General product description | Unit | Code (ASTM/ISO/DIN) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point at 1013 mbar | °C | ASTM D 1078 | 385 - 395 |
| Pour point | °C | DIN ISO 6016 | <-34 |
| Flash point | °C | EN 22719 | approx. 200 |
| Autoignition temperature | °C | DIN 51794 | approx. 500 |
| Permissible heater outlet temperature | °C | NTR | 350 |
| Permissible heater film temperature | °C | NTR | 380 |
| Pumpability limit | °C | NTR | approx. -5 |
| General product description | Unit | Code (ASTM/ISO/DIN) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point at 1013 mbar | °C | ASTM D 1078 | 385 - 395 |
| Pour point | °C | DIN ISO 6016 | <-34 |
| Flash point | °C | EN 22719 | approx. 200 |
| Autoignition temperature | °C | DIN 51794 | approx. 500 |
| Permissible heater outlet temperature | °C | NTR | 350 |
| Permissible heater film temperature | °C | NTR | 380 |
| Pumpability limit | °C | NTR | approx. -5 |
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| Product | 214kg barrel | 25kg bag |
| Globaltherm® S (-5°C – 350°C) |
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Contact us for more information on high temperature thermal oils
We provide advice on how to choose the most appropriate oil for your heat transfer applications and provide our customers with continued technical support.
Call us on +44 (0)1785 760555 for more information
Application
Marlotherm® SH is the ideal heat transfer fluid for a range of common applications, such as chemical and plastics processing.
Marlotherm® SH high temperature heat transfer fluid is designed for use in closed loop, non-pressurised heat transfer systems. It delivers ultimate performance to ensure your system is running at maximum capacity and optimum efficiency.
Marlotherm® SH is a high performance dibenzyltoluene heat transfer fluid for use in closed loop, forced circulation heat transfer systems.
This non-corrosive HTF can be used in systems requiring start-up temperatures as low as -5°C without the need for heat tracing. Marlotherm® SH is recommended for use in the temperature range from 250°C (482°F) to 350°C (662°F), but can be used intermittently at film temperatures as high as 380°C (716°F).
This thermal fluid is also thermally stable up to 300°C (572°F) and has a high flash point of 200°C — one of the highest in its class.
Key facts about Marlotherm® SH
- Marlotherm® SH has an operating temperature range of -5° to 350°C (23°F to 662°F)
- Marlotherm® SH HTF can be used without being pressurised
- Marlotherm® SH is non-corrosive
- It has a high flash point 200°C – one of the highest in its fluid class
- • It can be used in systems requiring start-up temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F) without the need for heat tracing
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| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance visual | N/A | N/A | Liquid, clear |
| Chlorine | ppm | DIN 51408 | <10 |
| Acid number | mg KOH/g | DIN EN ISO 2114 | ≤0.02 |
| Density @ 20°C | DIN 51757 | 1.04 - 1.05 | |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | cSt | DIN 51562 | 42 - 52 |
| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance visual | N/A | N/A | Liquid, clear |
| Chlorine | ppm | DIN 51408 | <10 |
| Acid number | mg KOH/g | DIN EN ISO 2114 | ≤0.02 |
| Density @ 20°C | DIN 51757 | 1.04 - 1.05 | |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | cSt | DIN 51562 | 42 - 52 |
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| General product description | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO / DIN) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point at 1013 mbar | °C | ASTM D 1078 | 385 - 395 |
| Pour point | °C | DIN ISO 3016 | <-34 |
| Flash point | °C | EN 22719 | approx. 200 |
| Autoignition temperature | °C | DIN 51794 | approx. 500 |
| Permissible heater outlet temperature | °C | NTR | 350 |
| Permissible heater film temperature | °C | NTR | 380 |
| Pumpability limit | °C | NTR | approx. -5 |
| General product description | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO / DIN) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point at 1013 mbar | °C | ASTM D 1078 | 385 - 395 |
| Pour point | °C | DIN ISO 3016 | <-34 |
| Flash point | °C | EN 22719 | approx. 200 |
| Autoignition temperature | °C | DIN 51794 | approx. 500 |
| Permissible heater outlet temperature | °C | NTR | 350 |
| Permissible heater film temperature | °C | NTR | 380 |
| Pumpability limit | °C | NTR | approx. -5 |
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| Product | 214kg barrel | 25kg bag |
| Marlotherm SH (-5°C – 350°C) |
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Choosing the correct heat transfer fluid
Thermal fluid specialist Global Heat Transfer stocks and delivers a wide range of premium quality heat transfer fluids, including Marlotherm® SH. The company also provides the complete solution for global thermal fluid supply and management.
If you want advice on how to choose the optimal heat transfer fluid for your application, get in touch by calling +44 (0)1785 760 555. Find contact details for our other offices here.
Marlotherm® LH is a high temperature heat transfer fluid designed for use in closed loop, forced circulation heat transfer systems.
This high performance heat transfer fluid is predominantly used in pharmaceutical and plastics processing.
What are the advantages of Marlotherm® LH?
- The fluid can be used in both liquid and vapour form due to its narrow boiling range of around 4°C
- Marlotherm® LH is a non-corrosive benzyltoluene HTF
- This thermal fluid has low viscosity for excellent heat transfer efficiency
- Marlotherm® LH is a benzyl aromatic with excellent thermal stability
Marlotherm® LH operating temperature
- Marlotherm® LH is recommended for use in the temperature range from -30°C (-22°F) to 280°C (536°F)
- This heat transfer fluid can also be used intermittently at film temperatures as high as 380°C and used in pressurised systems up to 360°C
- Marlotherm® LH has a high auto-ignition temperature of 450°C (842°F)
- This heat transfer fluid has low pour point and a pumping limit of -30°C (-22°F)
Thermal fluid specialist Global Heat Transfer stocks and delivers a wide range of premium quality heat transfer fluids, including Marlotherm® LH. The company also provides the complete solution for global thermal fluid supply and management.
If properly maintained and routinely tested, heat transfer fluids will provide good service over extended periods.
Engineers should follow a preventative maintenance programme that includes regular sampling to monitor fluid condition. Engineers should take the sample when the system is hot, closed and circulating to get an accurate representation of the fluid inside the system. Global Heat Transfer provides a complete thermal fluid analysis service to analyse fluid samples, track degradation and offer maintenance support.
For more extensive support, manufacturers should consider Global Heat Transfer’s Thermocare programme, a comprehensive maintenance strategy that includes regular sampling and systems checks as well as engineering services.
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| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance at 20°C | N/A | Visual | Liquid, clear |
| Chlorine | ppm | DIN 51408 | <10 |
| Acid number | mg KOH/g | DIN EN 2114 | <0.02 |
| Density @ 20°C | g/ml | ASTM D 941 | 0.99 - 1.00 |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | mm²/s | DIN 51562 | 3.6 - 4.4 |
| Parameter | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance at 20°C | N/A | Visual | Liquid, clear |
| Chlorine | ppm | DIN 51408 | <10 |
| Acid number | mg KOH/g | DIN EN 2114 | <0.02 |
| Density @ 20°C | g/ml | ASTM D 941 | 0.99 - 1.00 |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | mm²/s | DIN 51562 | 3.6 - 4.4 |
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| General product description | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling range at 1013 mbar | °C | ASTM D 1078 | about 278 - 282 |
| Pour point | °C | DIN ISO 3016 | about -30 |
| Flash point | °C | EN 22719 | about 130 |
| Ignition temperature | °C | DIN 51794 | about 450 |
| Permissible heater outlet temperature | °C | NTR | 360 |
| Permissible heater film temperature | °C | NTR | 380 |
| Pumpability limit | °C | NTR | about -30 |
| General product description | Unit | Code (ASTM / ISO) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling range at 1013 mbar | °C | ASTM D 1078 | about 278 - 282 |
| Pour point | °C | DIN ISO 3016 | about -30 |
| Flash point | °C | EN 22719 | about 130 |
| Ignition temperature | °C | DIN 51794 | about 450 |
| Permissible heater outlet temperature | °C | NTR | 360 |
| Permissible heater film temperature | °C | NTR | 380 |
| Pumpability limit | °C | NTR | about -30 |
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| Product | 200kg barrel |
| Marlotherm LH (-30°C – 360°C) |
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Choosing the correct heat transfer fluid
If you want advice on how to choose the optimal heat transfer fluid for your application, get in touch by calling +44 (0)1785 760 555. Find contact details for our offices here.
Biofuels are a commonly used alternative to fossil fuel for vehicles. Biofuels are produced using contemporary biological processes, such as agriculture, rather than geological processes such as coal and petroleum.
The most common types of biofuels are ethanol, biodiesel and fuels produced by gasification of biomass. Another form of biofuel is biogas — a mixture of gases produced by the breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic digestion).
The initial production, transport, refining and recycling of oil and gas products such as biofuels require the use of heat transfer fluids. Refineries also use heat transfer systems to heat reboilers and columns for the distillation process.
Heat transfer fluids can operate efficiently at high temperatures for the extended periods of time required in these processes. Thermal fluids also offer precise temperature control and thermal stability when used for large applications.
Industrial waste heat refers to any energy that is generated in industrial processes and not used. This waste is often dumped in the environment. Engineers can benefit from recovering and using this energy to improve sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint.
Heat recovery technologies such as Organic Rankine Cycle systems, capture the heat from biomass systems, geothermal sources or waste heat from other processes to produce electrical energy. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems can also effectively capture and use waste heat energy during power generation.
To effectively recover low-grade heat in both applications, engineers should choose a heat transfer fluid with precise temperature control, excellent thermal stability and a low boiling point.
The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) and the ATEX directive are the most important regulations to adhere to when working with thermal oils.
These regulations set out how to minimise risk in facilities where flammable materials are handled that can create explosive atmospheres. Plant managers should ensure that they have managed any risk to employees, the site is maintained and safe and that all employees are trained on how to safely operate the heat transfer system.
Global Heat Transfer has worked with companies in biofuel manufacturing for over 25 years to understand what fluids will best suit these applications.
Globaltherm® heat transfer fluids ensure the high thermal stability and precise temperature control required for optimum yield without compromising product quality.
Global Heat Transfer is a key supplier supporting the growth of heat transfer fluids for biofuels. We also stock Marlotherm fluids so that manufacturers can decide what thermal fluid is best for the application.
All heat transfer fluids will eventually degrade because they are operating at elevated temperatures for long periods of time.
As heat transfer fluids degrade, they produce corrosive oxidation by-products and a mixture of heavier and lighter fractions as a result of thermal cracking. The formation of heavier hydrocarbon chains results in carbon deposits called coke.
Heavy ends increase the kinematic viscosity of the fluid, causing a reduction in heat transfer and overall efficiency. If left untreated, heavy ends lead to solid carbon baking onto the internal surfaces of the system, which reduces flow rate and creates hot spots, increasing the potential risk of fire.
Thermal degradation also causes the build-up of lighter hydrocarbon chains called light-ends. The build-up of light-end components is a potential fire risk because they decrease the ignition temperature of the HTF.
Proactive fluid sampling can help to extend its lifespan and ensure that degradation is monitored so that it does not cause unexpected downtime or safety risks to employees.
Maintenance engineers should take a sample every three months and send it for analysis to understand what is happening inside the system. They can then track these results over time to accurately monitor fluid condition and look for trends. If they detect any signs that the condition could negatively impact production, engineers can schedule any maintenance to keep the system running safely and efficiently.
Maintenance engineers should take a hot, closed sample of the fluid when the system is circulating to ensure it gives a representative view of what is happening inside the heat transfer system.
Global Heat Transfer engineers can visit a facility and takes samples for analysis. Most thermal fluid companies offer a seven-point test to determine the overall condition of the fluid, but we offer more extensive analysis. Our eleven-point test looks at the sample in greater detail to ensure the results completely reflect reality.
Once they have interpreted the data engineers can give the plant manager a clear analysis of the condition of the fluid and make any recommendations about future maintenance.
It is important to carry out regular inspections of the entire heat transfer system to check the condition of the pipework, pressure gauges, gaskets and seals.
Engineers can also check gauges to monitor efficiency and detect if there are any internal problems in the system. Noticing any problems early on can reduce the risk of downtime because parts can be cleaned, fixed or replaced.
Implementing a preventative maintenance programme is the best way to reduce unplanned downtime, maintain a safe facility and extend fluid lifespan.
At Global Heat Transfer we provide a condition based thermal fluid lifecycle maintenance programme, Thermocare. Our expert engineers will work with you to improve accuracy when monitoring fluid, provide technical interventions when necessary, organise maintenance schedules and train staff.
Do you want to know more about heat transfer fluids for biofuel applications?
Global Heat Transfer’s team of engineers have worked with biofuel manufacturers for over 30 years to help improve operations and maintenance
To speak to one of experts call us on +44 (0)1785 760 555 or visit our contact page.