What does the full operating window look like?
Discuss both the coldest and hottest fluid conditions, rather than just a target process temperature. The catalogue lists different operating envelopes for each model, and concentration shifts physical properties. The freezing point is a separate figure from the recommended operating limit.
What will the fluid actually touch?
Include metals, seals, hoses and other wetted materials. The catalogue distinguishes several aluminium-compatible variants and some narrower metal-compatibility lists. Compatibility is set per model and per wetted material.
Is water part of the system — or prohibited?
Some products are water-dilutable, while others run directly in dry, closed circuits. Certain low-conductivity models call for ultrapure water; anhydrous families require measures to prevent moisture ingress.
What kind of cooling architecture is involved?
An indirect circulation loop and direct immersion cooling are different applications. The catalogue covers LM-4 data-centre variants, low-conductivity LM-4D, fluorinated LM-14 and dedicated LM-17 immersion fluids, each built for its own architecture.
Which safety and application requirements apply?
The catalogue contains both combustible and non-combustible formulations, and identifies several hazardous-chemical families. Food-industry use, electrical insulation and environmental descriptions each call for the supporting documents that go with the actual product and application.
How will you monitor and maintain the fluid?
Several products call for periodic pH, conductivity or corrosion checks. Salt systems may need inhibitor replenishment; an existing alcohol-water system may call for a compatible additive programme. The ongoing plan is part of the specification.
Secondary coolants at a matched freezing point
Density, specific heat, thermal conductivity and viscosity for six secondary coolants. Five sit within a degree or two of −41 °C, which is what makes their columns comparable: at equal protection, the fluid choice shows up in pump duty, heat-exchanger area and system volume. LM-8 is tabulated undiluted at −60 °C, so read that column as a separate reference point rather than as a sixth fluid at the same duty.
| Property | Calcium chloride 28% | Ethylene glycol 55% | Alcohol 60% | LM-1 41% | LM-4 55% | LM-8 undiluted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freezing point (°C) | −41 | −41.1 | −42 | −40 | −42.5 | −60 |
| Density at 20°C (g/cm³) | 1.265 | 1.079 | 0.89 | 0.937 | 1.072 | 1.36 |
| Specific heat (cal/g·°C) | 0.65 | 0.718 | 0.73 | 0.84 | 0.72 | 0.617 |
| Thermal conductivity (W/(m·K)) | 0.492 | 0.323 | 0.269 | 0.36 | 0.352 | 0.426 |
| Viscosity (cP) | 18 | 49.3 | 29.3 | 15.38 | 43.57 | 16.5 |
From the manufacturer’s pharmaceutical secondary-refrigerant document, 2023. Values apply to the concentrations shown.
Reference values come from the manufacturer’s published documents. The model-specific technical agreement and SDS apply to your application.