A glycol cooling system is a secondary-loop cooling method widely used in industrial and commercial HVAC systems. These systems utilize glycol-water mixtures to transfer heat safely and efficiently from chillers to cooling targets. Whether you’re managing a brewery, data center, or processing plant, glycol cooling offers reliable temperature control and freeze protection.
In a glycol cooling setup, a primary refrigerant chills the glycol solution in a heat exchanger. That chilled glycol mixture circulates in a closed-loop system to absorb heat from equipment or space, then returns to the chiller. This method keeps the primary refrigerant isolated from the cooled area, enhancing safety and simplifying maintenance.
Ethylene Glycol: Offers superior thermal performance but is toxic, making it suitable only for sealed systems.
Propylene Glycol: A non-toxic, food-grade option used in breweries, food processing, and healthcare settings.
Learn more in this article: What Is Glycol Used for Cooling?
Freeze Protection
Operational Safety
Design Flexibility
Corrosion Resistance
Long-Term Stability
These systems are especially useful in mission-critical environments. Visit our solutions page for industry-specific applications.
A glycol cooling system isn’t just another industrial setup—it’s a strategic investment in safety, flexibility, and efficiency. When designed and maintained correctly, it delivers long-term reliability and superior thermal management across demanding applications.
Whether you’re designing a new facility or retrofitting an existing one, Red River is here to help.
We specialize in custom-engineered glycol systems, pressure vessels, and skid solutions that reflect American craftsmanship.
30–50% glycol, depending on ambient temperatures.
Yes. It’s non-toxic and food-safe.
Test annually. Replace when acidity or contamination increases.
No. Follow EPA-safe disposal methods.
No. Glycol is a secondary heat-transfer fluid; refrigerants perform phase-change cooling.
Yes. Exposure to heat and oxygen breaks glycol down, requiring regular monitoring and replacement.
Propylene glycol is generally safe for the environment, while ethylene glycol must be handled carefully due to toxicity.
Too low concentration risks freezing and corrosion; too high concentration reduces heat transfer efficiency and increases pumping energy.
A glycol cooling system circulates a chilled glycol-water mix in a closed loop.
Offers freeze protection, safety, and efficiency.
Use propylene glycol for safety; ethylene glycol for performance (if sealed).
Maintain systems via regular pH checks and safe disposal.
Explore how glycol compares to water in cooling efficiency.
In the realm of industrial solutions, Red River emerges as a pioneer, offering a diverse range of custom-engineered products and facilities. Among our specialties is the design and production of Custom/OEM Pressure Vessels, meticulously crafted to meet individual client requirements, ensuring performance under various pressure conditions. Our expertise extends to the domain of prefabrication, where Red River leads with distinction.
The company excels in creating prefabricated facilities, modules, and packages, reinforcing its stance as a forerunner in innovation and quality. This proficiency is further mirrored in their Modular Skids offering, where they provide an array of Modular Fabricated Skid Packages and Packaged equipment. Each piece is tailored to client specifications, underlining their commitment to delivering precision and excellence in every project they undertake.
