The UK’s process industries now have access to two new thermal fluids boasting the market’s highest ever flash point, offering an unparalleled degree of long-term safety and cost-efficiency.
Thermal fluid system support, maintenance and risk management service provider to process industries worldwide, Thermal Fluid Solutions (TFS), has launched TFS Magma Ultima and its food grade sister, TFS Thermaltrans FGS, two semi-synthetic heat transfer fluids with a closed-cup flash point of over 2600C.
A fluid’s flash point is the minimum temperature at which, in the presence of ignition sources, such as light switches, pump failure or sparks, its vapours will ignite and it becomes classified as “hazardous”. TFS’ fluids’ market-leading flash point means that they may safely be used in systems operating at a bulk (highest average) temperature of up to 3000C and film (container boundary) temperature of up to 3250C.
The chemical composition of these highly refined oils ensures a considerable level of stability, allowing the fluids to resist for longer the process of degradation and consequent flash point reduction. The fluids create a minimum of carbon deposits and varnishes, so permitting long-lasting system cleanliness and efficiency. They are also resistant to water contamination.
TFS’ two new oils have been launched following six months of stringent testing at the firm’s Derbyshire headquarters. Said managing director, Richard Franklin: “Our new oils present a very exciting opportunity for the UK’s 3,000-plus process manufacturers who operate thermal fluid systems to transfer heat around their plants.
“They will enable companies to operate their systems safely and efficiently at high temperatures long-term, reducing the frequency with which oil needs to be reconditioned or replaced to ensure that vital parameters such as minimum flash points are maintained.”
European ATEX (Atmosphère Explosible) legislation – implemented in the UK via DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations) – stipulates requirements for the protection of workers against fires and explosions arising from the presence of hazardous substances in the workplace.
DSEAR demands that the risks inherent in the use of flammable fluids are assessed and eliminated or reduced. Regular fluid sampling and analysis is required to ensure that flash points do not fall below minimum acceptable levels. If necessary, oil must be replaced or conditioned so that a safe flash point is restored.
One of the main elements of TFS’ work is the reconditioning of customers’ thermal oil in order to maintain appropriate flash points. The company was the first to offer this service, which is a quick, cost-effective, environmentally sustainable alternative to total fluid replacement: HTfluidfit extends fluid life by a factor of at least 10, saving customers up to 70% of their thermal fluid costs.
Established in 1996 as Heat Transfer Systems and rebranding to Thermal Fluid Solutions in 2012, the company has established a strong international customer base, and in 2011 launched HTFluidfit in North America. It has clients across a range of process manufacturing sectors, including food, wood panel, petrochemicals and fine chemicals.
Over the last 20 years, TFS has worked for numerous high profile firms, including Premier Foods, Dow Chemical Company, Pfizer and Airbus.
In addition to the supply of oils and HTFluidfit, TFS’ individual services include fluid testing, analysis and advice; water removal; drainage and refill. The company also offers a comprehensive, continuous risk management service, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of customers’ thermal fluid systems and legislative compliance, via the creation of bespoke improvement plans. This aspect of the firm’s offer will be further developed later this year.
For further details, please visit www.thermalfluidsolutions.com.
