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.
The recommended mix is 30–50% glycol depending on climate. A lower ratio works in mild conditions, while a higher mix provides freeze protection in colder environments. The ratio also affects corrosion resistance, heat transfer, and pumping efficiency.
Yes. Food-grade propylene glycol is non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for use in breweries, wineries, and food processing. Always ensure you’re using USP- or FDA-approved formulations, not industrial grades.
Glycol should be tested once per year for pH, inhibitors, and contamination. If acidity is rising or the fluid looks degraded, it should be replaced or reconditioned. Well-maintained systems can last many years before a full change is needed.
No. Never dispose of glycol in drains or sewers. It must be handled through proper recycling or disposal services in compliance with EPA and local environmental regulations.
No. Refrigerants cool by phase change inside a sealed cycle. Glycol is a secondary heat-transfer fluid that moves chilled or heated liquid around the system. Both are important but serve different purposes.
Yes. Heat, oxygen, and contaminants cause glycol to oxidize and become acidic. This reduces protection and can corrode system components. Regular monitoring slows degradation and extends fluid life.
Propylene glycol is considered safe, biodegradable, and often chosen for environmentally sensitive systems.
Ethylene glycol is toxic to humans and animals, requiring careful handling and disposal.
Too high: Reduced heat transfer efficiency and higher pumping energy.
Keeping concentration in the 30–50% range ensures the best protection and performancey.
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.
