The intelligence behind efficient cooling
When organisations look to improve cooling efficiency, attention is often focused on chillers, pumps and control systems.
However, one of the most influential and frequently overlooked factors is the heat transfer fluid itself.
Heat transfer fluid selection and condition have a direct impact on thermal efficiency, energy consumption and equipment performance. A well-maintained cooling system can still underperform if the fluid has degraded, become contaminated or is not optimally suited to the application.
This is where true Cool Intelligence begins.
Heat transfer fluid selection and condition, equipment performance, operating conditions and maintenance strategies all work together. Understanding these interactions is essential to achieving optimum system efficiency, reliability and longevity.
This is why smarter cooling requires a ‘Whole System’ approach.
Rather than focusing on individual products or components in isolation, a Whole-System approach recognises that every part of the cooling system influences performance. By understanding how these elements interact, organisations can uncover opportunities for greater efficiency, lower operating costs and improved system reliability.
Innovation through advanced thermal fluids
World Refrigeration Day's Cool Intelligence theme also highlights the role of innovation in delivering more efficient cooling systems.
Hydratech’s DTX fluid technology sets a new benchmark: advanced glycols that deliver the thermodynamic and hydrodynamic performance advantages typically associated with ethylene glycol-based fluids - while maintaining the low-toxicity credentials that make propylene glycol (PG) suitable for sensitive applications.
Engineered for for use in all RAC, HVAC and glycol chiller systems, Coolflow DTX® has lower viscosity, better thermal conductivity and greater density than PG at all concentrations and temperatures. In real-world terms, converting from propylene glycol to Coolflow DTX® has been shown to increase system Coefficient of Performance (COP) by more than 10%, while delivering comparable reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
This improved performance can enable systems to be designed with smaller chillers, pumps and pipework while maintaining the same cooling capacity. The result is lower operational energy use and reduced capital expenditure. A significant advantage for large-scale industrial projects.
Meanwhile, in the renewable heating sector, Hydratech’s Thermox DTX® is being positioned as a next-generation fluid for heat pump systems seeking improved seasonal efficiency and lower operational stress. Designed specifically for renewable heating applications, Thermox DTX® offers improved thermal transfer performance over conventional propylene glycol blends while helping reduce the efficiency penalties often associated with higher viscosity fluids.
Intelligence doesn't stop at fluid selection
Choosing the correct heat transfer fluid is only part of the equation.
Maintaining fluid condition throughout its operational life is equally important if cooling systems are to continue performing efficiently.
Hydratech's Fluid Monitoring Program (FMP) provides customers with ongoing insight into the condition and performance of their heat transfer fluids, helping identify potential issues before they impact efficiency, reliability or asset life.
By taking a proactive approach to fluid management, organisations can make informed decisions based on fluid condition and performance data, helping to optimise efficiency, extend fluid life and maximise the return on investment from their cooling infrastructure.
Combined with specialist technical support, FMP helps customers move from reactive maintenance towards a more informed and strategic approach to cooling system management.
Cool intelligence through a ‘Whole System’ approach
One of the key messages behind World Refrigeration Day 2026 is that intelligent cooling relies on more than technology alone.
The most effective solutions combine innovation with expertise.
Hydratech bring together advanced thermal fluid technologies, proactive fluid monitoring, specialist engineering services, and decades of industry knowledge in thermodynamics, to help customers improve energy efficiency and enhance system performance.
As cooling systems face increasing demands for efficiency, sustainability and reliability, the greatest opportunities often come not from a single product or technology, but from understanding how every part of the system works together.
That's why Hydratech’s ‘Whole System’ approach sits at the heart of everything they do.
For Hydratech, Cool Intelligence is about more than keeping systems cool. It's about helping customers unlock smarter, more efficient and more sustainable cooling performance across the entire system.
