Blended Products Ltd supplies engineered coolant solutions designed to meet the operational, environmental and performance requirements of UK businesses.
What is silicate coolant
Silicate coolant, often referred to as silicate antifreeze, is an ethylene glycol or propylene glycol formulation enhanced with silicate corrosion inhibitors. These inhibitors create a protective barrier on metal surfaces, shielding components from deposits, scaling and electrochemical degradation.
Its key characteristics include:
- rapid protection of aluminium and ferrous components
- strong resistance to cavitation erosion
- stable performance under high thermal loads
- compatibility with many traditional coolant systems
- effective corrosion suppression across mixed-metal environments
These properties make silicate coolant a suitable choice for engines and systems that need immediate corrosion protection from the moment the coolant is introduced.
Where silicate coolant is used
Silicate coolant is commonly selected in sectors where equipment experiences high operating temperatures or rapid temperature change.
Typical applications include:
- commercial vehicle engines
- agricultural machinery
- construction and quarrying equipment
- industrial generators
- heat exchangers and process cooling systems
- legacy automotive cooling circuits designed for traditional inhibitors
It is also used in mixed fleets where a universal, fast-acting inhibitor package is required.
Advantages of using silicate antifreeze
Instant corrosion protection
Silicates deposit a protective layer immediately, reducing the risk of early component wear, particularly in aluminium engine blocks and cooling surfaces.
Robust defence against cavitation
In high-load engines, vapour bubbles can collapse against metal surfaces, causing erosion. Silicate inhibitors help reduce this effect.
Thermal stability
Silicate coolant performs reliably under fluctuating or elevated temperatures, supporting system stability in demanding operational environments.
Compatibility with traditional systems
Many legacy cooling systems were designed around silicate technology, making it a practical and safe choice for mixed-age fleets.
Considerations when selecting silicate coolant
Although widely used, silicate coolant requires correct system management:
- It may not be compatible with some modern organic acid technology (OAT) formulations
- Silicate levels must remain stable to avoid inhibitor depletion
- System flushing is recommended when switching from or to alternative coolant technologies
- Regular maintenance checks help maintain optimal corrosion protection
Blended Products Ltd provides guidance to ensure each coolant solution aligns with system materials, operational demands and OEM recommendations.
Contact Blended Products Ltd for expert guidance on engineered coolant solutions.
