How Do Glycol Heaters Work for Ground Thawing, Ground Warming & Freeze Protection?
Finding cost-efficient, reliable ground heaters for construction projects can be challenging. There are several types and brands to choose from, so how do you know you are getting the safest and most efficient working machine?
Glycol ground heaters are a fantastic alternative to expensive boilers. These units use glycol to maintain heat transfer instead of pure water. They work exceptionally well for frost prevention, cold-weather concrete warming and curing, and are very efficient at thawing frozen ground.
How Does a Glycol Heater Work?
Mechanics of the System
Glycol goes by another more recognizable name, antifreeze. It makes sense why this is the perfect component to help cure concrete in colder or fluctuating weather. Glycol can even be found in home heating systems to help protect them from the cold.
Many heating systems that use pure water or other oils have drawbacks. If the heating system shuts off in cold weather, the pipes can freeze, which can cause erosion and possibly burst a pipe. Instead of using pure water, a glycol heating system mixes glycol with water. Glycol or antifreeze lowers the freezing temperatures of the mixture, thus removing this issue. Glycol is also considered better than oil or pure water in terms of heat capacity, allowing for a safer, higher-functioning heater.
The set temperature of the glycol heater stays consistent throughout its usage. These systems use diesel fuel and can attach to any surface equipment with a 1″ or 2″ steam line.
Safety Components
There are many safety benefits to using a glycol heating unit. At Cahill Heating Rentals, our glycol heating model is designed to hold 150% containment should an accident occur, with safety sensors that shut down equipment during a spill, ensuring the safety of your worksite and crew.
An added safety feature with Cahill glycol systems is their ability to run continuously with a fail-safe backup system. You’ll be able to have peace of mind, knowing your heating system will work safely and efficiently.
Where Glycol Heaters Can Be Used
There are many applications for glycol heating systems. Ethylene and propylene glycol are used for process cooling in many different industries. Most commonly, they are used in construction sites for proper concrete curing and heating of work sites.
Another common use for glycol heaters is in industrial facilities for process cooling. It is highly efficient in the heating process because of glycol’s high heat capacity, high thermal conductivity, low viscosity, and water miscibility.
These systems help in many other forms, such as the manufacturing processes. Manufacturers will use these units to help keep products heated throughout the production process. It’s common to see glycol heating units used in household HVAC systems to ensure home safety and consistent heating throughout the colder weather seasons. Glycol heaters are multi-use units that are effective anywhere they are used. You can put your mind at ease when using a glycol heating unit at your job sites.
Glycol Heater's Rentals
Glycol heaters are a fantastic choice for your heating needs. When renting from Cahill Heating, you’ll have reliable, efficient, and safe glycol heaters on your job site. Our rentals are fuel-efficient, simple to use and can replace the use of multiple other heaters at a time. We offer round-the-clock and field services to provide comfort and support to keep your projects on track and on time.
Contact us today for your rental heater quote!
