Glycol Percentage

[banjo]

With these first 5 questions with we'd like to start the ball rolling with 5 frequently asked questions and the answers to those questions provided by the moderator, Pro Refrigeration.
Q - What percent Glycol should I be running in my chiller system?

[ProChiller]

A safe operating percentage is 1 part glycol (33%) to 2 parts water (66%)- this will provide freeze protection down to approx. +5 F. You want the freeze point of your solution to be 20-25 F below your chiller operating temperature or below the coldest ambient (on outdoor systems).

For more information on glycol please refer to http://www.probrewer.com/resources/refrigeration/glycol.php

[Sir Brewsalot]

Okay, I've got a hydrometer and I'm not afraid to use it. What should it read with on glycol-water solution of "proper" concentration?

Thanks,
Scott

[jimvgjr]

Okay, I've got a hydrometer and I'm not afraid to use it. What should it read with on glycol-water solution of "proper" concentration?

Thanks,
Scott

Somewhere I picked up the following numbers for hydrometer readings, they should get you close. I would be happy to test for free any sample you might want to send to me- you can also purchase a refractometer (glycol tester) for about $90.00.

30% Volume = 1.0295 SG = freeze point 9.2 F
35% Volume = 1.0330 SG = freeze point 2.4 F
40% Volume = 1.0372 SG = freeze point -6 F

Good luck!

Jim VanderGiessen Jr.
Pro Refrigeration Inc.
jimvgjr@prorefrigeration.com

[Sir Brewsalot]

Thanks Jim. VERY useful information!

And for what it's worth, I don't see any issues with "salting" the forum with some non-pressing refrigeration posts, but I appreciate your coming clean about the method.

As long as the info is good, keep it up!

Cheers,
Scott

[beertje46]

This is what I use.

http://bbcbrewmaster.blogspot.com/

This was too large to attach, link goes to my blog. I'd also be glad to e-mail the file.