Diccover why F&B industries face issues due to Glycol breakdown, corrosion & expensive metal repairs

The food and beverage (F&B) industry relies heavily on refrigeration systems to ensure the safety, quality, and longevity of products. However, the integrity of these systems is often compromised by glycol breakdown, corrosion, and the ensuing costly metal repairs. Understanding these issues and implementing effective solutions, such as coolant additives from Chemtex Speciality Ltd, is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and reducing downtime.

Key Issues in F&B Industry Cooling Systems

1. Glycol Breakdown

In F&B processing, glycol-based coolants are commonly used due to their excellent heat transfer properties and low toxicity. However, over time, these coolants can degrade—particularly when exposed to high temperatures or when maintenance is inadequate. This breakdown results in the formation of acidic by-products that can decrease the efficiency of the cooling system. Additionally, degraded glycol can lead to the formation of sludge and residues, which can clog the system, reducing its operational efficiency and leading to increased energy consumption.

2. Corrosion

Corrosion is a significant threat in cooling systems, primarily caused by the chemical interaction between the coolant and metal components of the system. Factors such as pH imbalances, oxygen ingress, and the presence of impurities can accelerate corrosion. This not only weakens the structural integrity of the system but also leads to leaks, which can contaminate products and pose health risks in the production environment.

3. Expensive Metal Repairs

The direct outcomes of glycol breakdown and corrosion are often extensive and expensive metal repairs. Corrosion can lead to significant damage to heat exchangers, pipes, and other critical components, requiring costly replacements and repairs. Furthermore, system downtime needed for these repairs can lead to production losses, affecting the overall profitability of F&B operations.

Coolant Additives from Chemtex as a Solution

Chemtex Speciality Ltd offers a comprehensive range of coolant additives designed to enhance the performance and longevity of refrigeration systems in the F&B industry. These additives include:

• Corrosion Inhibitors: To form a protective barrier on metal surfaces and prevent direct chemical interactions that lead to corrosion.
• Antifoaming Agents: To reduce foam formation, ensuring efficient heat transfer and preventing system overflow and damage.
• Biocides: To prevent the growth of microbes that can lead to biofilm formation and system inefficiencies.
• Antiscalants: To prevent scale buildup that can clog the system and reduce heat transfer efficiency.
• Thickeners: To improve the viscosity of the coolant, enhancing its heat transfer properties.
• Color Dyes: To aid in system monitoring and leak detection.

By implementing these advanced coolant additives, the F&B industry can achieve more reliable and efficient cooling systems, reducing the need for costly repairs and downtime while enhancing overall system performance and longevity.

Glycol breakdown, corrosion, and expensive metal repairs can significantly impact the operational efficiency and profitability of the F&B industry. Using high-quality coolant additives from Chemtex Speciality Ltd offers a proactive and effective solution to these challenges, ensuring that refrigeration systems operate at peak efficiency while minimizing downtime and repair costs.

The name Chemtex depicts Chemical Technology Experts. The early 1970s saw the foundation of Chemtex. And in the following decades, it expanded with its variety of indigenous chemicals and industries catered.