Heat transfer oil, also known as thermal oil or thermic fluid, is a type of fluid specifically designed for transferring and carrying heat in various industrial processes and systems. It is a high-temperature liquid that has excellent thermal stability and heat transfer properties.
Heat transfer oil is typically a synthetic or mineral-based oil with a high boiling point and low viscosity. It is engineered to provide efficient heat transfer while operating at elevated temperatures without degrading or breaking down. The oil is circulated through a closed-loop system, absorbing heat from a heat source and transferring it to a heat sink or another part of the system where it is utilized or dissipated.
There are different types of heat transfer oils available, each with its own specific properties and temperature ranges. Some common examples include mineral oils, silicone oils, and synthetic aromatic hydrocarbon-based oils. The selection of the appropriate heat transfer oil depends on factors such as the desired operating temperature range, thermal stability requirements, system design, and compatibility with other system components.
Heat transfer oils are commonly used in various industries, including chemical processing, oil and gas, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, plastics, textiles, and many others. They are employed in applications such as heat exchangers, thermal fluid heaters, drying systems, asphalt plants, plastic molding machines, and heat recovery systems, to name a few.