HVAC and Refrigeration Applications   
Dowtherm™ / Dowfrost™ Page 2

A Full Family of Glycol-based Fluid Options

DOWTHERM ™ and DOWFROST ™ Glycol-based Heat Transfer Fluids include both ethylene glycol-based (EG) fluids, which are specified when maximum heat transfer efficiency and economy are essential, and propylene glycol-based (PG) fluids for use when drinking water safety and other health concerns require the use of an environmentally friendly and low toxicity fluid. Each Dow fluid is specially formulated for HVAC service with heavy-duty industrial inhibitor packages that resist corrosion, a leading cause of system damage and a potential source of huge expense. A patented dispersant additive in all Dow glycol-based fluids, except DOWFROST ™  helps prevent precipitation of sediment and resulting fouling due to water hardness, a safeguard against under-deposit corrosion.
Because Dow offers a comprehensive range of fluid options, we are equipped to thoroughly and fairly assess your specific performance and economic requirements and recommend a fluid to meet your needs.

Ethylene Glycol vs. Propylene Glycol

An ethylene glycol-based fluid such as DOWTHERM TM SR-1,DOWTHERM TM 4000, DOWCAL ™ 10 or DOWTHERM ™ 10 Fluid  is usually the first choice for HVAC service because EG-based fluids are less viscous than propylene glycol fluids, which translates into excellent heat transfer efficiency and better low temperature performance. However, in some cases the potential for contact with ground water or other potable water supplies, or government regulations, call for use
of a propylene glycol-based fluid.
Propylene glycol fluids such as DOWFROST ™ HD, DOWFROST TM, and DOWFROST ™ 20,  feature low acute oral toxicity compared to the moderate oral toxicity of ethylene glycol-based fluids. These PG-based fluids can be used successfully in most systems as long as design requirements are met.

Here’s a summary of the family of fluids including performance
information and noteworthy applications
 

DOWTHERM ™ SR-1
With a recommended operating temperature up to 120°C (250°F), and freeze protection down to -51°C (-60°F), this inhibited ethylene glycol based fluid is the most widely used fluid for heating and air conditioning systems. A specially formulated inhibitor package provides excellent corrosion protection for common metals used in HVAC systems. The inhibitors are easily maintained, long-lasting, and replenishable, which means intervals between fluid changeouts are extended and
long-term fluid expense is minimized. DOWTHERM ™ SR-1 Fluid routinely lasts more than 20 years in properly maintained systems.

DOWTHERM TM 4000
DOWTHERM™ 4000 Inhibited Ethylene Glycol-based Fluid features a high recommended maximum use temperature (175°C/350°F) and solutions provide freeze protection down to temperatures as low as -51°C (-60°F). The special industrial inhibitor package in DOWTHERM ™ 4000 Fluid provides excellent protection against corrosion in HVAC service.

DOWFROST ™ HD
This inhibited propylene glycol-based fluid is recommended for use whenever a low toxicity fluid is
desired or if a propylene glycol-based fluid is required by government regulation. The recommended maximum use temperature is 160°C (325°F ). The fluid provides freeze protection down to -51°C (-60°F). A specially formulated corrosion inhibitor package provides a high level
of protection for all common metals found in HVAC systems. Enhanced protection for copper components
makes DOWFROST ™ HD Fluid the preferred propylene glycol-based fluid for HVAC applications. Ground source heat pump systems are a major application for DOWFROST ™ HD due to the fluid’s low acute oral toxicity.

DOWFROST ™
DOWFROST ™ Inhibited Propylene Glycol-based Fluid may be used where incidental contact with
potable water is possible or where use of a propylene glycol fluid is required by government regulation.

DOWFROST ™  has a maximum recommended use temperature of 120°C (250°F) and provide freeze protection down to -51°C (-60°F). The fluids feature a special industrial inhibitor package designed to prevent corrosion in HVAC service.

DOWTHERM TM 10
These inhibited ethylene glycol based fluids are used in water-based HVAC systems operating up to 175°C (350°F). They provide freeze protection down to -51°C (-60°F). These fluids do not contain a phosphate-based inhibitor package.

DOWFROST ™ 20
DOWCAL TM 20 and DOWFROST TM 20 Inhibited Propylene Glycol-based fluids are capable of operating to 160°C (325°F). They provide freeze protection down to 51°C (-60°F). Specially formulated inhibitor packages resist corrosion of common materials found in HVAC systems.

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