Chemical Processing

Heat transfer fluid for chemical processing

Chemical engineers may require heat transfer for indirect heating of:

  • process liquids and polymers
  • single fluid batch processing
  • pipeline tracing
  • energy recovering
  • low pressure cogeneration
  • drying and heating of bulk materials
  • gas processing.

These chemical reactions often occur at high temperatures, which must be maintained for prolonged periods. To safely and efficiently complete chemical processing at these temperatures, manufacturers can use either steam or thermal fluid.

Application

The most popular high temperature, synthetic heat transfer fluid. Suitable for operation up to 345°C (653°F) and can pumped to -3°C (27°F) and delivers exceptional performance. Primary applications are chemical industries, plastics processing and biodiesel.

About Globaltherm® Syntec

  • Globaltherm® Syntec uses the hydrogenated terphenyls chemistry of the most popular high temperature liquid phase heat transfer fluid. No other heat transfer fluid delivers a higher degree of customer satisfaction.

  • Globaltherm® Syntec HTF is used in a wide variety of applications in systems all over the world and delivers ultimate performance to ensure your system is running at maximum capacity and optimum efficiency.

Scroll for more details

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

Note: The information given in the typical data does not constitute a specification but is an indication based on current production and can be affected by allowable production tolerances. The right to make modifications is reserved. This edition supersedes all previous editions and information contained within them. Typical values should not be construed as a guaranteed analysis of any specific lot or as specifications for the product. Abbreviations: OC, open cup test; COC, Cleveland open cup test; and, NTR, no test reported.

Scroll for more details

Product 200kg barrel Bulk 1000kg IBC 25kg drum
Globaltherm® Syntec (-3°C – 345°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

Contact us for more information on high temperature synthetic 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

Globaltherm® Omnitech is a high performance synthetic heat transfer fluid designed to meet the demands of liquid or vapour phase systems and indirect heat transfer. The no.1 choice for concentrated solar power and thermal electricity applications, PET and plastics production and chemical industries.

About Globaltherm® Omnitech

Globaltherm® Omnitech is a synthetic thermal fluid which combines low viscosity and exceptional thermal stability for consistent performance.

  • Globaltherm® Omnitech is a diphenyl ether-biphenyl HTF mixture

  • The eutectic mixture of diphenyl oxide and biphenylgives this heat transfer fluid flexibility to perform in both vapour and liquid phases. It is miscible and interchangeable (for top-up or dilution purposes) with other similar mix thermal fluids.

  • Globaltherm Omnitech HTF has low viscosity (2.5 cst at 40°C [104°F])

  • This thermal fluid is excellent for use in heat transfer fluid systems which require very precise temperature control due its ability to operate as a vapour phase fluid

  • This heat transfer fluid is highly dependable

Scroll for more details

Parameter Unit Code Result
Appearance N/A N/A Clear-to-light yellow liquid with a geranium-like odour
Operating range °C (°F) 15 to 400 (59 to 752) liquid phase. 257 to 400 (495 to 752) vapour phase
Vapour pressure Psia 152.02
Freeze Point °C (°F) N/A 12°C (53.6°F)
Viscosity (at min. use temp) ASTM D445 4.91
Viscosity (at max. use temp) ASTM D445 0.13
Flash Point PMC °C (°F) ASTM D93 113 (236 °F)
Flash Point COC °C 123
Coefficient of thermal expansion °C 0.000979/ °C
Autoignition point °C (°F) ASTM E659 599 (1110°F)
Pour point °C ISO 3016 11
Neutralisation Nr (acid), TAN mgKOH/g ASTM D974 <0.2
Maximum bulk temperature °C NTR 400
Maximum film temperature °C NTR 425
Boiling point at 1013 mbar °C (°F) NTR 257
Average molecular weight NTR NTR 166
Moisture content PPM ASTM D6304 <300
Parameter Unit Code Result
Appearance N/A N/A Clear-to-light yellow liquid with a geranium-like odour
Operating range °C (°F) 15 to 400 (59 to 752) liquid phase. 257 to 400 (495 to 752) vapour phase
Vapour pressure Psia 152.02
Freeze Point °C (°F) N/A 12°C (53.6°F)
Viscosity (at min. use temp) ASTM D445 4.91
Viscosity (at max. use temp) ASTM D445 0.13
Flash Point PMC °C (°F) ASTM D93 113 (236 °F)
Flash Point COC °C 123
Coefficient of thermal expansion °C 0.000979/ °C
Autoignition point °C (°F) ASTM E659 599 (1110°F)
Pour point °C ISO 3016 11
Neutralisation Nr (acid), TAN mgKOH/g ASTM D974 <0.2
Maximum bulk temperature °C NTR 400
Maximum film temperature °C NTR 425
Boiling point at 1013 mbar °C (°F) NTR 257
Average molecular weight NTR NTR 166
Moisture content PPM ASTM D6304 <300

Note: The information given in the typical data does not constitute a specification but is an indication based on current production and can be affected by allowable production tolerances. The right to make modifications is reserved. This edition supersedes all previous editions and information contained within them. Typical values should not be construed as a guaranteed analysis of any specific lot or as specifications for the product. Abbreviations: OC, open cup test; COC, Cleveland open cup test; and, NTR, no test reported.

Scroll for more details

Product 200kg barrel
Globaltherm® Omnitech (15°C – 400°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

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

Scroll for more details

Product 214kg barrel 25kg bag
Marlotherm SH (-5°C – 350°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

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.

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

Scroll for more details

Product 214kg barrel 25kg bag
Globaltherm® S (-5°C – 350°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

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

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.

Scroll for more details

Product 200kg barrel
Marlotherm LH (-30°C – 360°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

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.

Application

Globaltherm® RP Heat transfer fluid is a heat transfer agent suitable for applications requiring single fluid heating and cooling including; oil and gas, heat recovery, plastics, polymers and styrene and chemical processing.

About Globaltherm® RP

  • Globaltherm® RP Heat transfer fluid is recommended for use in a temperature range up to a maximum bulk temperature of 660°F (350°C) and a maximum film temperature of 710°F (375°C).

  • Globaltherm® RP is a diaryl alkyl composition intended for use in applications that require liquid phase heat transfer.

  • Globaltherm® RP fluid can be used in non-pressurised systems, and is pumpable to 0°C (32°F).

  • Globaltherm® RP can be used in non-pressurized, liquid phase systems and has good low temperature properties, reducing the need for heat tracing.

  • Globaltherm® RP has a high flash point at 194°C (381°F) and delivers excellent thermal stability at the maximum use temperature.

  • Globaltherm® RP degrades primarily to low molecular weight products, therefore negating build-up of high molecular weight products that must be removed from the system.

  • Globaltherm® RP has a toxicity that is considered to be extremely low.

Scroll for more details

Product 1000 Litre IBC 200kg barrel Bulk
Globaltherm® RP (-20°C – 350°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

Globaltherm RP properties

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

Globaltherm® HF Heat transfer fluid is a heat transfer agent suitable for applications requiring single fluid heating and cooling including; plastics processing, moulding, casting, asphalt, paint and chemicals.

About Globaltherm® HF

  • Globaltherm® HF heat transfer fluid’s flash point is one of the industry’s highest at 536°F (280˚C).

  • Not only does this heat transfer fluid have one of the highest flash points available it also contains a resilient blend of additives to ensure trouble-free service when managed correctly.

  • Globaltherm® HF heat transfer fluid delivers superior resistance to extreme oxidation and sludging found in many manufacturing environments, including plastics processing, molding, casting, asphalt, paint and chemicals.

  • This heat transfer fluid is environmentally friendly, non-toxic and non-hazardous and requires no special handling.

  • A superior high performance, energy efficient heat transfer fluid suitable for use in a variety of industrial processes.

Scroll for more details

Product 208 Litre barrel 1040 Litre IBC
Globaltherm® HF (5°C – 338°C) Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF Tick | Global Heat Transfer HTF

Scroll for more details

Parameter Unit Code (ASTM / ISO) Result
Operating Range °C (°F) N/A Up to 338°C (640°F)
Apperance N/A N/A Clear, colourless liquid
Density @ 20°C Kg/m³ ASTM 1298 850-880
Kin. Viscosity 40°C mm²/s (cSt) NTR 103
Kin. Viscosity 100°C mm²/s (cSt) NTR 10.45
Flash Point °C ASTM D92 280
Fire Point °C ASTM D92 305
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion °C NTR 0.1011%
Auto Ignition Point °C ASTM E659-78 393
Pour Point °C ASTM D97 -9
Maximum Bulk Temperature °C NTR 338
Maximum Film Temperature °C NTR 360
Boiling Point °C NTR >343
Average Molecular Weight NTR NTR 399
Moisture Content PPM ASTM D6304 Not Determined
Parameter Unit Code (ASTM / ISO) Result
Operating Range °C (°F) N/A Up to 338°C (640°F)
Apperance N/A N/A Clear, colourless liquid
Density @ 20°C Kg/m³ ASTM 1298 850-880
Kin. Viscosity 40°C mm²/s (cSt) NTR 103
Kin. Viscosity 100°C mm²/s (cSt) NTR 10.45
Flash Point °C ASTM D92 280
Fire Point °C ASTM D92 305
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion °C NTR 0.1011%
Auto Ignition Point °C ASTM E659-78 393
Pour Point °C ASTM D97 -9
Maximum Bulk Temperature °C NTR 338
Maximum Film Temperature °C NTR 360
Boiling Point °C NTR >343
Average Molecular Weight NTR NTR 399
Moisture Content PPM ASTM D6304 Not Determined

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

Historically, engineers preferred steam when indirectly heating products because it is a cost-efficient resource that is readily available.

However, steam systems require high operating pressure to achieve necessary temperatures, putting workers at risk. Corrosion in the pipework is a common issue with steam systems because of the combination of water vapour and hot air. Excessive corrosion can cause leaks in the pipework, leading to unnecessary, costly downtime.

In most applications, heat transfer fluids are a better alternative to water and steam because they are the safer option. Thermal fluids operate at lower pressures than steam, so engineers can use the system at higher temperatures for long periods of time.

There are a lot of heat transfer fluids on the market but not all of them are suitable for the chemical industry.

Manufacturers should select a heat transfer fluid based on its properties, such as thermal stability and heat transfer efficiency, but must also consider the requirements of the system and its associated cost.

As part of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR), employers must carry out regular assessments on the fire and explosion risks of any work activities involving dangerous substances, including thermal fluid and synthetics.

In order to comply with DSEAR and provide a safe working environment for all employees, manufacturers should ensure that risk is managed correctly and staff are trained on operating heat transfer systems.

HTFs have to meet a number of key criteria depending on the specifics of the application. These include high temperature thermal stability, product purity and heat transfer efficiency. The thermal stabilities and properties of mineral and synthetic HTFs differ, allowing them to meet this range of requirements.

Chemical engineers should consider purchasing synthetic thermal fluid for chemical processing because they have a lower propensity to form carbon than mineral based oils, offering better heat transfer efficiency and thermal stability. They are also more resistant to fouling, which means they tend to form less coke on the system’s internal pipework and heater.

Choosing the wrong heat transfer fluid can cause unplanned downtime. Fluid degradation can occur when a fluid is heated above its maximum bulk temperature. When heated above its temperature, molecules will form and cause thermal cracking that reduces the viscosity, flash point and ignition temperature of the fluid.

Once a fluid has degraded it will impact production or stop it all together. At this point, manufacturers must flush, clean and refill the heat transfer system with new fluid, which can be costly.

Choosing the right fluid and applying a proactive condition monitoring and maintenance programme such as Thermocare, will reduce the risk of unplanned downtime and slow the degradation process.

Globaltherm™ heat transfer fluids are used in chemical processing operations all over the world and the product range may be used for indirect heating of:

  • process liquids and polymers
  • single-fluid batch processing
  • pipeline tracing
  • energy recovery
  • low pressure cogeneration
  • drying and heating of bulk materials
  • gas processing.

All chemical processes have operating parameters specific to the application that guide the selection of the most suitable heat transfer fluid. The Globaltherm™ family of heat transfer fluids offers a broad range of heat transfer product with operating temperatures to suit all chemical processes.

 

All heat transfer fluids will degrade over time. However, engineers may not be able to see the degradation in the system until it impacts production and chemicals will not blend.

At high operating temperatures, the bonds that exist between hydrocarbon chains will start to break and form shorter (commonly referred to as ‘light-ends’) and longer chained hydrocarbons (‘heavy-ends’).

The build-up of light-end components is a potential fire risk because they decrease the ignition temperature of the HTF. The accumulation of heavy-ends results in the formation of sticky carbon deposits or sludge and can be monitored by analysing the carbon residue in a system.

You can slow degradation by implementing a continuous preventative maintenance programme and frequently monitoring both the fluid and the system.

Manufacturers should complete regular visual checks of the system to check the condition of the pipework and make sure there are no leaks. Engineers should also frequently sample the fluid to determine its status.

To get a representative sample, manufacturers must take a hot, closed sample. This is the only way to understand the condition of the fluid when it is moving around the system.

Incorrect sampling may give inaccurate flash point results, which can have dangerous consequences. Unless the fluid samples are collected when the oil is hot and circulating, they may reveal artificially high flash point values. This incorrect sampling will lead to the incorrect conclusion that the fluid is safe and does not require attention.

After taking a correct sample, plant managers can interpret the data to understand the condition of the fluid and if any interventions are required to improve the condition of the fluid.

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.

We can help you create the right programme for your plant. We provide a condition based thermal fluid lifecycle maintenance programme, Thermocare, where our experts will work with you to improve accuracy when monitoring fluid, provide appropriate interventions when needed and organise maintenance schedules and train staff at the facility.

Where can I get more advice?

Global Heat Transfer has over 25 years of expertise in heat transfer fluids to help you choose the right one for your application.

Call us on +44 (0)1785 760555 for more information

Want to review our case studies in chemical processing applications?