A Glycol chiller is a specialized refrigeration system, and often involves the use of antifreeze. A popular application is in beverage production, wherein propylene glycol - a food grade chemical - is used (see Glycol).
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Cooling in Brewing and Other Applications
Glycol chillers are a specific kind of refrigeration system, often used to cool a variety of liquids - including alcohol and other beverages. Using a chiller allows producers to crash the temperature of the product dramatically over a short period of time, depending on the production needs. Propylene glycol plays a significant role in the application of a glycol chiller. For cooling in brewing, there are few processes where decreasing or maintaining temperature are important - like crash cooling a beer after fermentation, or keeping a steady temperature during fermentation (which generates heat), or cooling the wort after an initial boiling process.
How Do Glycol Chillers Work
Chillers are essentially refrigerators. Like all refrigeration units, one of these chiller systems involves a compressor, evaporator, condenser and a pump.
The buffer tanks work with the chilling unit to provide “buffer” capacity for the system to prevent excessive chiller cycling, unexpected temperature fluctuations, and erratic system operation.
Propylene glycol, a food grade antifreeze, is typically used when consumable products are involved. Before using glycol in the brewing process, check that propylene glycol is of USP grade to ensure it is recommended for food use.