Lämpönsiirtonestes

Lämpönsiirtoneste, often translated as heat transfer fluid or thermal fluid, is a substance used to transfer heat from one location to another. These fluids are employed in a wide range of applications, from industrial processes and heating systems to cooling systems and solar energy collectors. The primary function of a heat transfer fluid is to absorb heat from a source, transport it, and then release it to a sink.

The selection of a heat transfer fluid depends on several factors, including the operating temperature range, pressure requirements, material compatibility, and safety considerations. Common types of heat transfer fluids include water, glycols (such as ethylene glycol and propylene glycol), mineral oils, synthetic oils, and molten salts. Water is a widely used and cost-effective option for lower temperature applications, but its freezing point and boiling point can limit its use. Glycols are often used in antifreeze formulations for automotive cooling systems and in hydronic heating systems to prevent freezing.

Mineral and synthetic oils are suitable for higher temperature applications where water-based fluids would vaporize. Molten salts are employed in very high-temperature applications, such as concentrated solar power plants. In addition to their thermal properties, heat transfer fluids must also possess desirable physical properties like low viscosity for efficient pumping, high specific heat capacity for effective heat absorption, and good thermal stability to resist degradation at elevated temperatures. Environmental impact and toxicity are also important considerations when choosing a heat transfer fluid.