Julian Klauza

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Regenerated fluids in technical installations: Is it worth the risk?

In today’s world, environmental sustainability is one of the most important challenges for many businesses. We pay attention to recycling, resource conservation, responsible waste management, and… COSTS. This also applies to the topic of antifreeze fluids. Unfortunately, the desire to be eco-friendly and cost-effective is often exploited by some glycol producers. How so? Well, alongside high-quality glycols, there are now also regenerated fluids available on the market, commonly referred to as ‘regenerates.’ These are fluids that have been recovered and purified after previous use, and then reintroduced into circulation as an alternative to new products (often, dishonest sellers do not inform their customers about the origin of such products). Although regenerates may seem like a good, cheaper, eco-friendly solution at first glance, it’s worth taking a closer look at them.

What are regenerates?

Regenerates are fluids that, after some period of use in an installation, have been recovered, subjected to purification processes, and prepared for reuse. The appropriate regeneration process can theoretically restore the fluid to a state close to the original, but it will never match the quality and parameters of high-quality new glycol-based antifreeze or any other raw material.

Why do regenerates generate controversy?

Impurities

The regeneration process, although advanced, is not always able to completely purify fluids from all impurities. Residues of old fluids, contaminants, and other substances can remain in the regenerate, affecting its properties and performance.

Inconsistency

The quality of regenerates can be inconsistent. This means that two batches of the same regenerate may have different properties, which in practice can lead to problems when using them in the same system. This also means that any top-up of fluid into the installation would pose an additional risk.

Safety

Risk of contamination

Regenerated glycols are susceptible to bacterial or chemical contamination if the regeneration process was not conducted properly.

Impact on materials

Regenerates can react with some materials used in installations, leading to their damage or leaks.

Effect on rubber seals

Regenerated antifreeze fluids can affect the elasticity and durability of rubber seals in the system, which over time can lead to leaks.

Lifespan

Shortened lifespan

Purified glycols lose their properties much faster, which means they need to be replaced more frequently. In the longer term, this generates higher operating costs for the installation.

Degradation

Regenerated fluids are more susceptible to degradation processes influenced by external factors, such as temperature or exposure to air.

Additives in antifreeze fluids

Diverse composition

Regenerated glycol-based antifreeze fluids do not always have a consistent chemical composition, which can affect their properties and performance in the system.

Reduced effectiveness

In regenerates, active components such as corrosion inhibitors may be present in lower quantities or even completely absent. This means that these fluids may not provide full system protection.

Why is it worth choosing new fluids?

Procold offers glycol-based fluids, including propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol, as well as potassium formate, which are precisely tailored to the specifications of each installation. This allows us to guarantee their long lifespan, efficiency, and safety. Our product range includes only high-quality antifreeze fluids. Additionally, we offer corrosion inhibitors, circulating water, and flush solutions to ensure complete system protection. Explore our products or contact our sales department below.

In summary,

Although regenerates may seem like an attractive alternative from an environmental and economic perspective at first glance, one must consider the potential risks associated with their use. By choosing products of proven quality, you are not only taking care of your installation but also ensuring peace of mind.

wróć 2023-09-29