Glycols are an essential ingredient in many industrial and commercial heating and cooling systems. They help manage temperature, prevent freezing, and protect equipment from corrosion — making them a reliable choice for everything from HVAC and refrigeration to process cooling and renewable energy systems.
Globally, the use of glycol continues to rise, driven by growing demand across the plastics, automotive, and manufacturing sectors. In the UK, production once took place at Wilton on Teesside, but since that plant closed in 2010, all glycol used here is now imported from Europe, the USA, and the Middle East.
Understanding the types of Glycol
The two main types of glycol used in heat transfer applications are ethylene glycol (EG) and propylene glycol (PG). Both lower the freezing point and raise the boiling point of water, creating a more stable and efficient heat transfer fluid.
Ethylene glycol is known for its excellent thermal performance, making it ideal for systems where efficiency is a top priority. Propylene glycol, on the other hand, offers a non-toxic alternative and is often chosen for applications where environmental or safety considerations are key — such as in food and beverage processing or HVAC systems.
Propylene glycol can also be produced in two forms: one derived from crude oil (1,2-propanediol) and another increasingly made from renewable vegetable sources (1,3-propanediol), helping to reduce environmental impact.
Blended Products and advanced Glycol solutions
At Blended Products, we supply both ethylene and propylene glycol formulations tailored to a wide range of heating and cooling needs. Our products are designed for high performance, long-term protection, and dependable efficiency — keeping your systems running smoothly, whatever the conditions.
