Effective management of heat transfer fluid flash point temperatures using a light-ends removal kit (LERK)

Heat transfer fluids (HTF) need to be regularly sampled to assess the extent of thermal degradation, oxidative state, the accumulation of short-chained light-ends and contamination by intrinsic or extrinsic particles. The build-up of light-ends in a HTF system presents a potential fire hazard. A light-ends removal kit (LERK) enables light-ends to be removed continuously, helping to push-up flash point temperatures. In the current case, the concentration of light-ends started to build-up in the client’s system and a LERK was subsequently installed. Data is presented that shows how effective the LERK was in restoring mean closed flash point temperature to stable levels, similar to those seen for a virgin HTF. Closed flash point temperature was, in this case, more variable than open flash point temperature. This highlights the need to make direct measurements of closed flash point temperature as opposed to indirect measurements of open flash point temperature. This case emphasises the need for regular HTF sampling and analysis, and that the installation of a LERK can help maintain the condition and life of a HTF.