Antifreeze selection

[Theblackbox]

My new to me turret punch has this chiller to cool the hydraulics. It currently runs distilled water. I’m in an unheated workshop so really could do with changing this to some form of antifreeze but what can I just use any glycol antifreeze or does it need specific stuff?

Coolflow IGE20 - Ready-To-Use Industrial Glycol Antifreeze for HVAC systems

Ready to Use Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze for HVAC systems with freeze protection to -20°C.

hydratech-shop.co.uk

I found this stuff but as this needs 130 litres or so. It’s not going to be cheap

 

[badabec]

Low power heating element underneath the cooler?
Have you read thread on cleaning a cooler?

 

[tom2207]

Low power heating element underneath the cooler?
Have you read thread on cleaning a cooler?

a greenhouse heater , the 40w ones are mighty , I have one under my toolbox ,,,, keeps everything in it toasty and rust free ,, well I do use a spray of gods nectar too of course .

 

[fzr phil]

standard recommendation would be 'flowcool IG' at min' 25% which provides antifreeze to ~ -12degC, inhibitors and biocide.

might not hurt (at least) just to keep the unit on / pump running whilst in the cold snap. the heat pick-up from the pump and movement should prevent it freezing.

i have seen all sorts and nothing used over the years. but be sure not to mix mpg (propylene) and meg (ethylene) it can turn to a wax.
worst cases is a frozen evap that crushes the tubes/ splits causing loss of refrigerant and that can spoil anyones day

next is build up of sludge / organic material, blocks the ways and can go acidic and cause damage inside-out to pipework/heat exchangers/pumps.

if there is a strainer it won't hurt to check it, also have a peek in the tank. if looks clean and ok maybe leave it otherwise at least drain and re-fill with fresh water.

the punch manual might have specification for the coolant too.
often distilled is required for lasers

hope that helps a bit or opens the can of worms a bit more
Phil