Glycol Concentration Testing
Glycol Concentration Testing Services
Several different techniques are used for testing the concentration of glycol in solution but most frequently used techniques are explained below:
- Refractometer
Glycol is measured by measuring the refractive index. Light is passed through the solution, and the angle at which the light bends is recorded. This value is used to calculate the glycol concentration. A very simple and portable device is used where a few drops of the solution are taken on the prism and kept in light to read the concentration on the digital scale.
- Hydrometer
Hydrometers work on the measurement of specific gravity which is calculated as:
Therefore, specific gravity is correlated with concentration. To measure the concentration of glycol, it is taken in a cylinder and a hydrometer is submerged in the solution. No physical contact should be present between the hydrometer and cylinder. The specific gravity is read at the meniscus.
In comparison, the refractometer technique is better than the hydrometer technique as it requires a lesser amount of the sample. Also, an hydrometer is made up of glass which is breakable. While using the hydrometer, temperature should be maintained because specific gravity varies as the temperature changes. Thus, refractometer is recommended as it is an accurate, temperature independent, operator independent and a faster technique.
Common Uses of Glycol Concentration Testing
Following are the common uses of this testing technique;
- It is used to check the contamination of water in cooling systems/heat exchangers.
- It is used in deicing chemicals which are utilized in aircraft and roads.
Limitations Glycol Concentration Testing
- Air leaks in a system containing glycol can degrade glycol and affect its efficiency. Analysis of glycol is necessary after a certain period of time to carry out plant operations efficiently.
